Slow Cooker Beef & Broccoli is a tender, flavorful, and comforting dish that delivers restaurant-style results with minimal effort. The slow cooker transforms thinly sliced beef into melt-in-your-mouth bites while the rich sauce infuses it with savory, slightly sweet flavor. Fresh broccoli adds color, crunch, and balance to the dish. The sauce is a perfect blend of garlic, soy, brown sugar, and broth, creating a glossy finish that coats every piece beautifully. This recipe is ideal for busy days because the slow cooker does most of the work. You can serve it with rice, noodles, or vegetables for an easy and satisfying meal. It tastes better than takeout and is perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Beef & Broccoli
The beef becomes extremely tender. The sauce tastes rich and savory. The broccoli adds freshness. The recipe is simple. The ingredients are familiar. The slow cooker makes cooking effortless. The dish reheats well. Kids enjoy the flavor. Adults love the tender texture. In addition, it feels like a healthier alternative to takeout.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
You should try this recipe if you want a hands-off, delicious meal that works for any day of the week. The flavors blend beautifully while cooking, and the sauce thickens into a perfect glaze. The recipe is reliable, family-friendly, and easy to customize with more vegetables or spice. Because the ingredients are budget-friendly and widely available, this dish is ideal for regular meal rotation. It also pairs with many sides, making it versatile and convenient.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
1½ pounds flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
1 cup beef broth
½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
⅓ cup brown sugar
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
3 cups fresh broccoli florets
Optional Add-Ins
Red pepper flakes
Sliced carrots
Sliced onions
Sesame seeds
Green onions for topping
How to Make This Slow Cooker Beef & Broccoli
1. Prepare the Beef
Slice the beef into thin strips. Trim excess fat so the sauce stays smooth.
2. Make the Sauce
Add beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil to the slow cooker. Stir until everything is combined.
3. Add the Beef
Place the sliced beef into the sauce mixture. Stir gently so all pieces are coated.
4. Cook
Cover the slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or on HIGH for 2–3 hours. The beef should be tender.
5. Thicken the Sauce
Whisk cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Add the mixture to the slow cooker. Stir well.
6. Add the Broccoli
Place the broccoli on top of the beef. Cover again and cook for 20–25 minutes. The sauce will thicken, and the broccoli will become tender.
7. Serve
Stir everything once more. Serve over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.
Nutritional Information (Estimated per serving)
Calories: 335
Fat: 14g
Carbs: 18g
Sugar: 11g
Protein: 34g
Sodium: 980mg
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Beef & Broccoli
Slice the beef thin for tenderness. Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness. Add cornstarch near the end for a thicker sauce. Do not overcook the broccoli or it may become too soft. Add the broccoli during the last 20–25 minutes for perfect texture. Stir well before serving to coat everything evenly. Use flank steak for the best texture, but sirloin also works well.
Variations & Substitutions
Swap broccoli for green beans or snow peas. Use chicken instead of beef for a lighter dish. Add red pepper flakes for heat. Replace beef broth with vegetable broth. Use coconut aminos for a lower-sodium option. Add mushrooms or carrots for more vegetables. Serve with cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Beef & Broccoli
Serve with steamed rice, jasmine rice, or brown rice. Pair with stir-fried noodles or ramen. Add it to an Asian-inspired dinner spread with egg rolls or dumplings. Pair with sautéed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also works well with quinoa or mashed potatoes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not cook the broccoli for the full duration or it will turn mushy. Avoid slicing the beef too thick. Do not skip the cornstarch mixture or the sauce will stay thin. Avoid overcooking the beef on HIGH, which can make it dry. Do not use regular soy sauce unless you adjust the salt. Avoid lifting the lid too often during cooking.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Freeze for two months. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep the beef tender. Keep broccoli separate if possible to maintain texture.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Beef & Broccoli is tender, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. The slow cooker transforms simple ingredients into a meal that tastes like restaurant takeout. The rich sauce, soft beef, and crisp broccoli create a comforting dish that works for weeknights, family dinners, and meal prep. This recipe is simple, satisfying, and sure to become a regular favorite.
Recipe FAQ’s
1. Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, add during the last 10–15 minutes.
2. Can I use stew meat? It works, but the texture is firmer.
3. Can I cook it on HIGH the entire time? Yes, for about 2–3 hours.
4. Can I double the recipe? Yes, use a larger slow cooker.
5. Can I make it spicy? Add red pepper flakes or sriracha.
6. Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes, adjust cook time to 3–4 hours on LOW.
7. Why is my sauce thin? Add another teaspoon of cornstarch slurry.
8. Can I add mushrooms? Yes, add them at the beginning.
9. What cut of beef works best? Flank steak or sirloin.
10. Can I meal prep this? Yes, it reheats very well.