Slow Cooker Beef Pho Recipe

Pho is a beloved Vietnamese soup known for its rich flavors and comforting warmth. Traditionally, making this dish requires hours of simmering and careful attention. But with modern cooking methods, we’ve made it easier than ever to enjoy this classic at home.

Our recipe simplifies the process, allowing you to achieve restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. The slow cooker does most of the work, freeing up your time while still delivering a deeply flavorful broth. Whether you’re new to pho or a seasoned fan, this version is sure to impress.

With 8-10 hours of hands-off cooking, this dish is perfect for busy schedules. Plus, it’s packed with 19-38g of protein per serving, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. Customize it with your favorite toppings for a family-friendly dinner everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Beef Pho

Enjoy the rich aroma of spices and tender meat without spending hours in the kitchen. Our method simplifies the process, delivering a deeply satisfying meal every time. The slow cooker extracts maximum flavor from bones and spices, creating a broth that’s both rich and aromatic.

Unlike traditional methods that require constant supervision, this recipe lets the pot do all the work. Simply add your ingredients, set it to cook low for hours, and let the magic happen. The result is a broth that’s packed with depth and complexity.

We enhance the flavor by broiling the bones and toasting the spices. Star anise, cinnamon, and cloves create an authentic aroma that’s hard to resist. For an even richer broth, try using oxtail or sirloin as your protein base.

This dish is perfect for busy days. You can prepare the broth ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight to remove excess fat. It’s also freezer-friendly, so you can store it for future meals. Customize it with your favorite toppings for a meal that’s uniquely yours.

• Slow cooking extracts maximum flavor from bones and spices.
• No need for constant stove supervision—set it and forget it.
• Broiling bones and toasting spices enhance the depth of flavor.
• Make-ahead convenience: refrigerate overnight for fat removal.
• Adaptable protein options: oxtail, sirloin, or London broil.
• Freezer-friendly broth storage for future meals.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Pho

Creating a flavorful broth starts with the right ingredients. Each component plays a key role in building the dish’s signature taste. Here’s what you’ll need:

The aromatic base includes fresh ginger and onion, which add depth and warmth. For protein, beef bones are essential for a rich, collagen-filled broth. If bones aren’t available, Better Than Bouillon is a great alternative.

Spices like star anise, cinnamon, and cloves bring licorice-like sweetness and warmth. Fish sauce adds umami, while sugar balances the flavors. Rice noodles, such as Thai Kitchen’s gluten-free option, complete the dish.

For toppings, fresh bean sprouts, lime, and herbs like cilantro and basil add brightness. If fresh bean sprouts are unavailable, canned ones work just fine. Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients and their purposes:

Store fresh herbs and bean sprouts in the fridge to maintain their crispness. For spices, keep them in a cool, dry place. With these ingredients, you’re ready to create a dish that’s both authentic and customizable.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Beef Pho

Ready to master the art of making a delicious and aromatic meal at home? Follow these simple steps to create a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Start by broiling the bones and veggies for about 8 minutes. This step enhances the flavor of your broth. For easier slicing, place your steak in the freezer for 20 minutes. This trick ensures paper-thin slices that cook perfectly in the hot broth.

Next, add the broiled bones, veggies, and spices to your pot. Use a cheesecloth bundle for the spices to make straining easier later. Set your cooker to low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. Both methods yield a rich and flavorful broth.

While the broth cooks, prepare your rice noodles separately to avoid mushiness. Rinse them under cold water after cooking to stop the process. Thinly slice your steak and set aside for serving.

Once the broth is ready, skim off any excess fat. For serving, you can either pour the hot broth over the noodles and steak or combine everything in the pot. Both methods work well, so choose what’s easiest for you.

Safety tip: Always handle hot broth with care and use a sharp knife for slicing. Enjoy your homemade dish with fresh herbs, lime, and bean sprouts for added brightness and crunch.

Serve and Enjoy Your Homemade Beef Pho

Now that your aromatic soup is ready, it’s time to assemble and enjoy it with your favorite toppings. Start by layering rice noodles and thin steak slices in a bowl. Pour the hot broth over the top to cook the meat perfectly. This method ensures every bite is tender and flavorful.

Set up a topping bar for customization. Fresh herbs like basil and cilantro add brightness, while lime wedges bring a tangy kick. For heat, add sriracha or jalapeño slices. Kids often prefer basil and lime over bean sprouts, so keep their preferences in mind.

Store leftovers properly to keep the flavors fresh. The broth stays good for three days in the fridge or three months in the freezer. Keep noodles separate to avoid sogginess. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick meal any day.