Save A comforting, wholesome dish featuring tender beef and broccoli simmered in a savory sauce, served over fluffy brown rice and fresh greens for a balanced meal.
I first made this slow-cooker beef & broccoli for a family dinner after a busy weekday, and the aroma of simmering soy, garlic, and ginger made everyone eager for supper. Watching the flavors melt together and serving it warm over rice is my go-to for easy comfort food.
Ingredients
- Beef & Marinade: 1 1/2 lbs (680 g) beef chuck or flank steak, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup (60 ml) low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 2 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1-inch (2.5 cm) piece fresh ginger, grated; 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Sauce: 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth (low-sodium); 2 tbsp cornstarch; 2 tbsp water
- Vegetables: 4 cups (300 g) broccoli florets; 4 cups (120 g) mixed greens (spinach, kale, or Swiss chard), washed & roughly chopped; 2 scallions, thinly sliced (for garnish); 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Rice: 1 1/2 cups (285 g) brown rice; 3 cups (720 ml) water; 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Marinate the beef:
- In a large bowl, combine sliced beef with soy sauce, brown sugar, oyster sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and black pepper. Toss well to coat.
- Cook in slow cooker:
- Transfer beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add beef broth and stir gently to combine. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or until beef is tender.
- Thicken sauce & add broccoli:
- After 4 hours, whisk cornstarch and water together in a small bowl to make a slurry. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker. Add broccoli florets, stir gently, and cover. Continue cooking on low for 45–60 minutes, until broccoli is crisp-tender and sauce has thickened.
- Cook rice:
- Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, bring water and salt to a boil. Add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 35–40 minutes until tender. Fluff with a fork.
- Add greens & serve:
- Just before serving, stir the mixed greens into the slow cooker and allow them to wilt for 2–3 minutes. Serve the beef and broccoli mixture over brown rice. Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Save This recipe became an instant hit at our house, and now it's a favorite for casual Sunday meals with leftovers perfect for lunch. Sharing it at the table always brings smiles and requests for seconds.
Required Tools
Slow cooker, large mixing bowl, saucepan with lid, chefs knife, cutting board, measuring cups & spoons
Allergen Information
Contains soy (soy sauce, oyster sauce) and shellfish (oyster sauce). For gluten-free needs, substitute with tamari and check for oyster sauce alternatives. Always review ingredient labels for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 485, Total Fat: 13 g, Carbohydrates: 56 g, Protein: 36 g
Save This slow-cooker beef & broccoli is warm, hearty, and easy enough for any night. Make it once, and family or friends will ask for it again!
Recipe FAQ
- → How long does it take to cook the beef and broccoli?
The beef cooks on low for about 4 hours until tender, followed by an additional 45-60 minutes with broccoli for a crisp-tender texture.
- → Can I use different vegetables with this dish?
Yes, mixed greens like spinach, kale, or Swiss chard are added at the end to complement the broccoli and enhance freshness.
- → What type of rice pairs well with this meal?
Brown rice offers a nutty, fluffy base, but jasmine or white rice can be substituted for quicker cooking.
- → How can I add extra flavor to the sauce?
Adding chili flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha can bring additional heat and depth to the savory sauce.
- → Is there a way to adapt this dish for gluten-free diets?
Using gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce and choosing gluten-free oyster sauce alternatives makes this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- → Can protein alternatives be used in place of beef?
Chicken or tofu can replace beef for lighter or vegetarian variations, adjusting cooking times accordingly.