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.
The first time I made this beef and broccoli in my slow cooker, the kitchen filled with cozy aromas and everyone kept peeking at the pot. The extra greens and brown rice made it feel so nourishing, and we all loved spooning big helpings onto our plates after a busy day.
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.
- Transfer to slow cooker:
- Add beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add beef broth and stir gently to combine.
- Cook the beef:
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, until beef is tender.
- Thicken the sauce:
- Whisk cornstarch and water together. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker.
- Add broccoli:
- Add broccoli florets, stir gently, and cover. Continue cooking on low for 45 to 60 minutes, until broccoli is crisp-tender and sauce thickens.
- Prepare rice:
- In a saucepan, bring water and salt to a boil. Add rice, reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 35 to 40 minutes until tender. Fluff with a fork.
- Add greens:
- Just before serving, stir mixed greens into the slow cooker and allow to wilt 2 to 3 minutes.
- Serve:
- Spoon beef and broccoli mixture over brown rice. Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds if desired.
Save Sharing this at Sunday dinner brought lots of smiles—everyone added their own favorite toppings: extra sesame seeds or scallions, and there were hardly any leftovers. It felt good serving a meal that was hearty but still full of fresh greens for my family.
Preparation & Cooking Tips
Slice the beef thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness. For best results, add the broccoli halfway, so it stays crisp yet cooked through. Letting the greens wilt for just a minute keeps them bright and fresh.
Ingredient Swaps
Use chicken or tofu in place of beef to adjust for dietary preferences or lighter fare. Jasmine or white rice can replace brown rice for a milder flavor and faster cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
Top each serving with scallions and sesame seeds, or add a splash of chili sauce for a gentle kick. This all-in-one bowl pairs perfectly with a side of steamed bok choy or a light cucumber salad.
Save This slow-cooker beef & broccoli delivers satisfying comfort in every bite. Simply garnish and serve hot for a hearty dinner everyone will enjoy.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I ensure the beef stays tender?
Use thinly sliced beef chuck or flank steak and cook it slowly on low heat for several hours. The slow cooker method gently breaks down connective tissue, resulting in tender meat.
- → Can I use other greens instead of the suggested mix?
Yes, feel free to swap the spinach, kale, or Swiss chard for any fresh leafy greens you prefer. Add them near the end so they wilt but retain texture.
- → What is the best way to thicken the sauce?
Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the cooking liquid. This helps the sauce thicken without altering flavor or texture.
- → Is it okay to substitute brown rice with another grain?
Yes, jasmine or white rice can be used as a quicker alternative. Adjust cooking times accordingly to maintain tenderness.
- → How can I add some heat to the dish?
Add chili flakes or a splash of Sriracha to the sauce for a mild to moderate spicy kick without overpowering the flavors.