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 beef & broccoli recipe on a busy weekend when I wanted something delicious but effortless. The slow cooker really does all the work, and the house smells incredible while it cooks: everyone looks forward to dinner.
Ingredients
- Beef chuck or flank steak: 1 1/2 lbs (680 g), thinly sliced
- Low-sodium soy sauce: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
- Brown sugar: 2 tbsp
- Oyster sauce: 2 tbsp
- Sesame oil: 1 tbsp
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Fresh ginger: 1-inch (2.5 cm) piece, grated
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp, freshly ground
- Beef broth: 1 cup (240 ml), low-sodium
- Cornstarch: 2 tbsp
- Water (for slurry): 2 tbsp
- Broccoli florets: 4 cups (300 g)
- Mixed greens (spinach, kale, or Swiss chard): 4 cups (120 g), washed & roughly chopped
- Scallions: 2, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Toasted sesame seeds: 1 tbsp (optional, for garnish)
- Brown rice: 1 1/2 cups (285 g)
- Water: 3 cups (720 ml)
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
Instructions
- Marinate 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.
- Start Slow Cooking:
- Transfer beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add beef broth and stir gently to combine.
- Cook Beef:
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or until beef is tender.
- Thicken Sauce:
- 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:
- Add broccoli florets to the slow cooker, stir gently, and cover. Continue cooking on low for an additional 45–60 minutes, until broccoli is crisp-tender and sauce has thickened.
- Cook Rice:
- Meanwhile, cook the 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.
- Add Greens:
- Just before serving, stir the mixed greens into the slow cooker and allow them to wilt for 2–3 minutes.
- Serve:
- Serve the beef and broccoli mixture over brown rice. Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Save This dish is a family favorite for weeknights; it always disappears quickly, especially when everyone gets to add their own garnishes.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with extra steamed greens or a crisp cucumber salad for more freshness. For added heat, serve with chili oil or Sriracha on the side.
Variations
Swap beef for chicken or tofu to suit your preference. Try jasmine or white rice in place of brown rice for a faster option.
Nutrition Info
Each serving provides approximately 485 calories, 13 g total fat, 56 g carbohydrates, and 36 g protein.
Save This beef & broccoli slow-cooker meal is a true time-saver and tastes amazing, even for leftovers the next day.
Kitchen Guide
- → How do I ensure the beef stays tender?
Using thinly sliced beef chuck or flank steak and slow cooking on low heat for several hours allows the meat to become tender and flavorful.
- → Can I substitute brown rice with other grains?
Yes, jasmine or white rice can be used for a quicker cook time. Quinoa or cauliflower rice are also good alternatives to vary texture and flavor.
- → When should I add the greens for best texture?
Stir the mixed greens into the dish just 2–3 minutes before serving so they wilt slightly without losing their bright color and nutrients.
- → How can I thicken the sauce without cornstarch?
Alternative thickeners include arrowroot powder or potato starch, mixed with water before adding. Cook gently to avoid clumps.
- → What garnishes enhance this dish?
Thinly sliced scallions and toasted sesame seeds add freshness and a pleasant crunch that complements the rich sauce and tender beef.