Name: Slow Cooker Beef & Broccoli (Better Than Takeout)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs flank steak, thinly sliced; 3 cups broccoli florets; ¾ cup low-sodium soy sauce; ⅓ cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoon sesame oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced; ¼ cup beef broth; 2 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoon water; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish; 2 green onions, sliced, for garnish

Hey y'all! If you love a hearty, flavorful meal that's a total crowd-pleaser and super easy to make, you have to try this Slow Cooker Beef & Broccoli (Better Than Takeout)! Juicy Beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory, garlicky sauce come together for a dish that's so much better and healthier than your favorite takeout. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or any time you're craving Asian-inspired comfort food. Let's get cooking!

Slow Cooker Beef & Broccoli (Better Than Takeout)

Why You'll Love This

Set-it-and-forget-it convenience makes dinnertime stress-free.
Melt-in-your-mouth tender beef and perfectly cooked broccoli every time.
Rich, savory sauce tastes just like your favorite restaurant version — but fresher!
Healthier than takeout with no mystery ingredients or excess oil.
Easily customizable to fit your dietary needs or preferences.

Ingredients

2 pounds flank steak or sirloin, sliced thin against the grain
4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
1 cup low-sodium beef broth
½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
⅓ cup brown sugar, packed
¼ cup hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Cooked white or brown rice, for serving (optional)
Sliced green onions & sesame seeds, for garnish

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Use a sharp knife to slice your beef thinly against the grain. This helps ensure each bite is super tender after slow cooking.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour half the sauce into the bottom of your slow cooker.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Beef

Add the sliced beef to the slow cooker, then pour in the remaining sauce. Stir to coat all pieces. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2.5-3 hours, until beef is tender and flavorful.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Thirty minutes before serving, whisk together cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Stir this slurry into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce.

Step 5: Add the Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets on top of the beef, and cover again. Cook on high for about 25-30 minutes, until the broccoli is bright green and just tender. Give everything a good stir before serving.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the beef and broccoli over hot steamed rice and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch!

Notes

If you like your broccoli extra tender, add it with the beef and cook it the entire time.
For richer flavor, marinate the beef in some of the sauce overnight before cooking.
Add a splash of oyster sauce for more umami depth if you love bold flavors!

Variations

Chicken & Broccoli: Swap beef for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a lighter twist.
Low-Carb/Keto: Serve over cauliflower rice and use a low-carb sweetener in place of brown sugar.
Extra Veggies: Add snow peas, carrots, or bell peppers to pack in more color and nutrition.

Required Equipment

6-quart slow cooker
Sharp knife & cutting board
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups & spoons
Whisk

Storage Instructions

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Serve over fluffy white jasmine or nutty brown rice for a satisfying meal.
Pair with hot and sour soup or egg drop soup for a complete Chinese-inspired dinner at home.
Add a side of crispy spring rolls or potstickers for extra fun!

Pro Tips

Slice the beef while slightly frozen for paper-thin, even pieces.
Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry—it gives the sauce that classic glossy, thick takeout feel.
Add broccoli at the end to keep it vibrant and crisp, not mushy.

FAQ

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! Add frozen broccoli straight to the slow cooker without thawing, but cook for 10-15 minutes less to avoid overcooking.

What’s the best cut of beef for this recipe?

Flank steak is perfect for tenderness, but sirloin or rump roast also work wonderfully for slow cooker beef and broccoli.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Simply use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and be sure your hoisin sauce is certified gluten-free.