Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli (Better Than Takeout!)

If you love classic Chinese takeout but want a healthier, more affordable homemade option, Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is the answer. This recipe delivers tender beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and a rich savory sauce—all made effortlessly in your crockpot.

Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or cozy family dinners, this slow cooker version brings restaurant-style flavor straight to your kitchen with minimal hands-on time.

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Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Beef and Broccoli

• Hands-off cooking in the slow cooker
• Tender beef every time
• Sweet and savory garlic-ginger sauce
• Healthier than takeout
• Great for meal prep and leftovers

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Ingredients

• 1½ lbs flank steak, thinly sliced
• 1 cup beef broth
• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 3 cups broccoli florets

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Instructions

1. Add sliced beef to the slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, whisk beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
3. Pour sauce over beef and stir to coat.
4. Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours.
5. Stir cornstarch with ¼ cup water to form a slurry.
6. Add slurry to slow cooker and stir.
7. Add broccoli florets, cover, and cook 20–30 minutes until tender.
8. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

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Flavor & Texture

The beef becomes incredibly tender while soaking up the rich, umami-packed sauce. Broccoli added at the end stays bright and slightly crisp, creating a perfect balance of textures.

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Tips for the Best Results

• Slice beef against the grain for tenderness
• Add broccoli near the end to avoid mushiness
• Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt
• Thicken sauce gradually for ideal consistency

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Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or chili paste
• Low-carb: Serve over cauliflower rice
• Chicken version: Substitute flank steak with chicken thighs
• Extra veggies: Add bell peppers or snap peas

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Serving Suggestions

Pair slow cooker beef and broccoli with:

• Steamed jasmine or brown rice
• Fried rice
• Lo mein noodles
• Egg rolls or dumplings

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Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in airtight container up to 4 days
• Freeze: Freeze without broccoli up to 2 months
• Reheat: Warm gently on stovetop or microwave

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Why This Beats Takeout

This homemade version contains fewer additives, less sodium, and more fresh ingredients—without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it costs a fraction of restaurant prices.

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Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. With tender beef, vibrant broccoli, and bold sauce, this crockpot favorite will quickly earn a permanent place in your dinner rotation.