Tender, juicy beef slow-cooked in a rich, savory garlic-soy sauce with fresh broccoli. This easy, homemade takeout-style dinner is perfect for busy weeknights and tastes delicious served over fluffy white rice.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 4–5 hours | Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes–5 hours 30 minutes | Servings: 6
Ingredients
For the Beef and Broccoli
2 lbs flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
4 cups fresh broccoli florets
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for searing)
2 green onions, sliced, for garnish
1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish
4 cups cooked white rice, for serving
For the Sauce
1 cup beef broth
½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
⅓ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons cornstarch
3 tablespoons cold water
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Thinly slice the beef against the grain into bite-sized strips. For extra flavor, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef in batches for 1–2 minutes per side. This step is optional but adds a delicious depth of flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, oyster sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper. Mix until the sugar is mostly dissolved and everything is well combined.
Step 3: Add Everything to the Slow Cooker
Place the sliced beef into the slow cooker. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the beef and stir gently to coat all the pieces. Cover with the lid.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Beef
Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the beef is tender. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the beef and your slow cooker.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Stir the mixture into the slow cooker. Cover and cook on HIGH for another 10–15 minutes, until the sauce thickens into a glossy consistency.
Step 6: Add the Broccoli
Add the fresh broccoli florets to the slow cooker and gently stir them into the sauce. Cover and cook on HIGH for 15–25 minutes, until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp. Avoid overcooking to keep the broccoli from becoming mushy.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once the beef is tender and the broccoli is cooked, stir everything gently to coat it in the thickened sauce. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot over steamed white rice, spooning extra sauce over each serving.
Cooking Tips
Choose the right beef: Flank steak and sirloin work well for tender strips of beef.
Slice against the grain: This helps make the beef easier to chew.
Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry: It gives the sauce its signature thick, glossy texture.
Add broccoli at the end: This keeps it bright green and slightly crisp.
Adjust sweetness: Reduce the brown sugar if you prefer a less sweet sauce.
Use low-sodium soy sauce: This helps control the salt level.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with steamed jasmine rice or basmati rice.
Pair with stir-fried noodles for a heartier meal.
Add steamed carrots, snap peas, or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh green onions for extra flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 2–3 months. The broccoli may soften after thawing.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave until thoroughly hot. Add a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce becomes too thick.
Nutrition Information
Approximate values per serving, without rice.
Nutrient
Amount
Calories
390 kcal
Protein
39 g
Carbohydrates
22 g
Fat
16 g
Saturated Fat
5 g
Fiber
3 g
Sugar
14 g
Sodium
1,050 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes. Add frozen broccoli during the final 10–15 minutes of cooking, checking regularly to prevent it from becoming too soft.
2. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Slice the beef and mix the sauce a day ahead. Store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce and a certified gluten-free oyster sauce alternative. Check all ingredient labels.
4. What is the best cut of beef for this recipe?
Flank steak and sirloin are excellent choices. Chuck steak can also be used, but it may need longer cooking to become tender.
5. Can I make this without a slow cooker?
Yes. Cook the beef and sauce in a covered pot over low heat on the stovetop until the beef is tender, then thicken the sauce and add the broccoli near the end.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is a comforting, flavorful meal made with tender beef, fresh broccoli, and a delicious garlic-soy sauce. With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, it’s a wonderful option for busy weeknights, family dinners, or homemade takeout nights.