Pin this 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 discovered this slow-cooker beef & broccoli recipe when I wanted a hearty yet healthy dinner that my family would love. We enjoy the rich flavors and how effortless it is to serve a complete meal in one bowl.
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.
- Slow Cooking:
- 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 an additional 45–60 minutes, until broccoli is crisp-tender and sauce has thickened.
- Prepare Brown Rice:
- 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.
- Finish & Add Greens:
- Just before serving, stir mixed greens into the slow cooker and allow them to wilt for 2–3 minutes.
- Serve:
- Serve beef and broccoli mixture over brown rice. Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Pin this This dish is a weeknight favorite at our table, especially on chilly evenings when we gather together to enjoy a warm, filling meal straight from the slow cooker.
Required Tools
Slow cooker, large mixing bowl, saucepan with lid, chef's knife, cutting board, measuring cups & spoons
Allergen Information
Contains soy and shellfish. For gluten-free, use tamari and oyster sauce alternatives. Always check ingredient labels.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 485. Total Fat: 13 g. Carbohydrates: 56 g. Protein: 36 g (per serving)
Pin this This delicious slow-cooker beef & broccoli is sure to become a staple in your menu—simple, satisfying, and perfect for busy days.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → How do I ensure the beef stays tender in slow cooking?
Use thinly sliced chuck or flank steak and cook on low heat for several hours until tender. Avoid overcooking to keep the meat juicy.
- → Can I substitute brown rice with another grain?
Yes, jasmine or white rice can be used for a quicker cooking time, or try quinoa for a different texture.
- → What vegetables work well besides broccoli and greens?
Snap peas, bell peppers, or baby corn can complement the flavors nicely while adding color and crunch.
- → How can I thicken the sauce effectively?
A slurry of cornstarch and water added towards the end of cooking will help achieve a glossy, thickened sauce.
- → Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Substitute tamari for soy sauce and use gluten-free oyster sauce alternatives to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- → Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
Yes, slow cooking allows for meal prep. Store cooked components separately and combine when reheating to maintain texture.