Name: Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 300 min
Total time: 310 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Sirloin steak or boneless beef chuck roast, sliced thin; 1 cup Beef broth; 1/2 cup Low sodium soy sauce; 1/4 cup Brown sugar; 1 tablespoon Sesame oil; 3 cloves Garlic, minced; 4 tablespoons Cornstarch; 4 tablespoons Water; 12 ounces Frozen broccoli florets; to serve Cooked white rice (Optional)

Jump to Recipe

Ready to savor a delicious, hearty meal that practically cooks itself? Say hello to Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli, a dish that combines melt-in-your-mouth tender beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and a savory sauce all simmered together until perfection. Did you know that beef and broccoli has roots in Chinese-American cuisine and became widely popular in the 20th century? This slow cooker version makes weeknight dinners effortless—just toss your ingredients into the crock pot, go about your day, and let the magic happen. What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity; you need just a handful of pantry basics and a few minutes of prep for a restaurant-worthy meal at home. If you’ve tried my Easy Chicken and Rice Casserole, you’ll appreciate the same one-pot convenience but with a different flavor twist here. Trust me, your family will love scooping up every saucy bite. Let’s dive into why you need this recipe on your weekly menu!

What is Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli?

Ever wondered where the name Beef and Broccoli comes from, and why it rolls off the tongue so effortlessly? It’s pretty straightforward—this dish stars tender beef, fresh broccoli, and is slow-cooked in a delicious sauce that brings it all together! The crock pot makes it even more magical, infusing every bite with flavor while saving you time. I like to imagine someone saying, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” then promptly serving a plate of this dinnertime favorite. It’s comfort food at its best, and a fun twist on the takeout classic. Why not try it tonight and find out just how easy and satisfying this staple can be in your own kitchen?

Why You’ll Love This

Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli is all about ease, flavor, and affordability. First, the star of the show is the ultra-tender beef that soaks up a rich, savory sauce—each bite melts in your mouth and is complimented by the subtle crunch of broccoli. Making it at home means you’ll save money compared to takeout, but you won’t sacrifice taste; in fact, you’ll control every ingredient. Plus, the addition of garlic, sesame oil, and a hint of brown sugar creates mouthwatering complexity that rivals any restaurant. If you enjoyed my Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken, you’ll adore this recipe for its familiar, craveable sauce and no-fuss preparation. Why wait? Break out your crock pot, gather your family, and give this easy, delicious meal a try tonight!

How to Make

Quick Overview

Craving a dinner that’s both effortless and bursting with flavor? Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli is your answer. This recipe is perfect for busy families because you simply toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work. In just about 5 hours, you’ll enjoy tender beef and perfectly cooked broccoli smothered in a homemade, restaurant-style sauce. The hands-on prep takes less than 10 minutes, making it a lifesaver for hectic days. Whether you’re meal-prepping or feeding hungry mouths on a busy night, this dish fits the bill.

Ingredients

2 pounds sirloin steak or boneless beef chuck roast, sliced thin
1 cup beef broth
1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 tablespoons cornstarch
4 tablespoons water
1 bag (12 ounces) frozen broccoli florets
Cooked white rice, to serve (optional)

Directions

In the insert of a 6-quart crock pot (or any slow cooker), whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and minced garlic.
Add the thinly sliced beef to the crock pot. Toss the beef in the liquid mixture so it’s fully coated.
Cover the crock pot with the lid and cook on low heat for 5 hours. The beef will become tender and absorb all the rich flavors.
After 5 hours, in a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to make a slurry.
Pour the cornstarch mixture into the crock pot, stirring well to combine. This step will help thicken the sauce.
Add the frozen broccoli florets on top of the beef and sauce. Gently stir so the broccoli is mixed in.
Replace the lid and cook on low for another 30 minutes, until the broccoli is tender and the sauce is thickened.
Serve hot over a bed of warm, fluffy white rice.

Enjoy your homemade Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli!

What to Serve With

This savory dish shines as a main attraction, but it truly comes alive when served with some classic sides. Steamed jasmine or brown rice is the obvious choice, soaking up all that delicious sauce. A side of crispy egg rolls or wontons adds a crunchy contrast, while a simple cucumber salad or Asian slaw provides freshness and crunch. For drinks, consider pairing with a cold glass of iced green tea or a refreshing ginger-lime mocktail. The combination of flavors and textures will make this a meal to remember!

Top Tips for Perfecting

Choose the Right Cut: Sirloin steak makes for tender bites, but boneless beef chuck roast is budget-friendly and gets just as juicy after slow cooking.
Customize the Veggies: While broccoli is classic, you can add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrients.
Avoid Overcooking Broccoli: Add the broccoli at the end—the last 30 minutes is perfect for keeping it tender-crisp, not mushy.
Adjust the Sauce: Love it sweeter? Add a tad more brown sugar. Want it saltier? A splash more soy sauce does the trick.
Thicken to Your Liking: If the sauce isn’t thick enough, cook with the lid off for the final 10 minutes.

With these tips, you’re on the path to Crock Pot success!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze, allow it to cool fully, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until heated through. For stovetop reheating, place in a saucepan on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or beef broth if the sauce is too thick. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best results.

FAQs

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh broccoli works great. Just chop into bite-sized florets and add for the last 30 minutes of cooking, just like frozen.

Do I have to use beef chuck or can I use another cut?

Sirloin is ideal for tenderness, but any boneless beef cut suitable for slow cooking will work.

Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce to keep this dish gluten-free.

How can I make this ahead for meal prep?

You can assemble all ingredients (except the broccoli and cornstarch) into a freezer bag and cook directly from frozen—just add extra time and follow the same steps for thickening and adding broccoli.

What if I don’t have sesame oil?

No problem! While sesame oil adds classic flavor, you can use a neutral oil like canola or a splash of olive oil instead.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli is the ultimate solution for busy nights—simple to make, cost-effective, and bursting with savory flavor. Whether you’re a slow cooker pro or a weeknight warrior looking for no-fuss meals, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Pair it with fluffy rice and a fresh side, and you’ve got a comforting, family-friendly dinner everyone will love. Don’t forget to explore our other slow cooker favorites for more effortless mealtime inspiration. Gather your ingredients, set your crock pot, and get ready for a dinner that tastes like your favorite takeout—without ever having to leave your home!