Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli Recipe

Beef and Broccoli is a takeaway favourite, but did you know you can easily make it at home in your slow cooker? This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a delicious, homemade meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Tender beef cooked in a rich, savoury sauce with garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of sweetness—paired with fresh or frozen broccoli for a classic dish the whole family will love.

How To Make Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

For concise ingredients and instructions, or to print this recipe out, please head to the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

What You Need

• Diced beef (1 kg) – Opt for stewing beef for tender results. The slow cooker will break down the connective tissue, making it melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
• Beef stock (250 ml) – A good-quality full of flavout stock enhances the depth of the sauce. A single stock cube or stock pot dissolved in boiling water works well.
• Garlic (3 cloves, crushed) – Alternatively you can use 1 tbsp of frozen chopped garlic.
• Soy sauce (120 ml) – Provides that classic umami-packed taste. I used light soy sauce.
• Sesame oil (1 tbsp) – A small amount goes a long way in giving this dish its signature nutty aroma.
• Soft brown sugar (75 g, or alternative) – Balances out the savoury flavours with a slight sweetness. You can swap it for honey or a sugar-free option if preferred.
• Broccoli (350 g, fresh or frozen florets) – Adds a pop of colour, texture, and nutrients.
• Cornflour (2 tbsp) – Used to thicken the sauce at the end.
• Spring onions (optional, for garnish) – A fresh topping that adds a mild, slightly sharp contrast.
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish) – For a little crunch and visual appeal.

Making It

Add The Beef

There’s no need to pre-brown the beef—just place the diced beef directly into the slow cooker. The slow, gentle heat will ensure it becomes incredibly tender without any extra effort.

Make The Sauce

In a jug or bowl, whisk together the beef stock, garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar (or alternative), and sesame oil. This combination creates a perfect balance of salty, sweet, and umami flavors. Pour it over the beef and give everything a good stir to make sure the meat is evenly coated.

Cook The Beef

Put the lid on and set your slow cooker to HIGH for 4 hours or LOW for 6 hours. As the beef slowly cooks, it absorbs all the tasty flavours of the sauce, becoming juicy and tender.

Thicken The Sauce

Once the beef is cooked, the sauce may be a little thin. To thicken it, remove 60ml of liquid (approx) from the slow cooker and mix it with 2 tbsp of cornflour in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and lump-free, then pour it back into the slow cooker and stir well.

Add The Broccoli

Now it’s time to add the broccoli. Stir in the florets and cook for a further 20–30 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still slightly crisp. If you prefer, you can steam or stir-fry the broccoli separately and mix it in just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your slow cooker beef and broccoli with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Sprinkle with chopped spring onions and sesame seeds for extra flavour and texture.

Tips and Variations

• Swap the sugar – If you prefer, use honey or a sugar-free alternative.
• Add more vegetables – Try adding sliced carrots, peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
• Make it spicy – Add a dash of chilli flakes or Sriracha for a bit of heat.

Storage and Reheating

• Fridge – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer – This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.

I hope you enjoyed this slow cooker beef and broccoli recipe, let me know in the comments if you end up making it! If you are looking for more beef recipes for the slow cooker try my slow cooker beef stew, beef curry or beef goulash.