With familiar, savory flavors and a straightforward technique, these Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli Bowls deliver a delicious, family-friendly meal with minimal hands-on time. If you love classic beef-and-broccoli, this version uses a slow cooker for an easy, make-ahead dinner, and an Instant Pot option is included if you prefer a faster finish.
My family enjoys beef and broccoli whether we dine out or cook at home. While the dish is traditionally made as a quick stir-fry, the slow cooker method shines on busy nights when you want a hands-off meal that still tastes restaurant-quality. The Instant Pot variation offers a speedy alternative when time is tight.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli Bowls
- ¼ cup coconut aminos
- ¼ cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons coconut sugar
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch knob fresh ginger, peeled and finely grated
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 lb center-cut top sirloin steak, trimmed and sliced
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon tapioca flour (for slurry)
- 9 ounces broccoli florets
- Prepared rice or cauliflower rice, for serving
- Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli Bowls — Step-by-Step (Slow Cooker Method)
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Whisk the coconut aminos, beef broth, coconut sugar, toasted sesame oil, fish sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes in a small bowl until smooth. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker to form the cooking liquid and flavor base.
Step 2: Slice and Season the Steak
Slice the sirloin against the grain into thin strips, about ¼-inch thick. If desired, cut longer strips in half so they’re easier to eat. Season the beef with kosher salt and black pepper and toss to coat evenly.
Step 3: Cook Slowly
Place the seasoned steak into the slow cooker and stir so the beef is coated with the sauce. Cover and cook on low for about 4 hours, stirring once or twice during cooking so the meat cooks evenly and absorbs the sauce.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
When the beef is cooked through, remove the lid and give everything a good stir. Scoop out about ¼ cup of the cooking liquid into a small bowl or cup and whisk in the tapioca flour until smooth to make a slurry.
Step 5: Add Slurry and Broccoli
Slowly stir the slurry back into the slow cooker. The sauce will begin to thicken. Add the broccoli, cover, and continue cooking until the broccoli is tender and the sauce has thickened, about 15–20 minutes. Check doneness to avoid overcooking the florets.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the beef and broccoli over prepared rice or cauliflower rice. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over each bowl for a finishing touch and serve immediately.
Instant Pot Method
If you prefer to use an Instant Pot, follow the same prep for the sauce and steak. Pour the sauce into the Instant Pot, add the seasoned beef, seal the lid, and cook on high pressure for 12 minutes. When the timer finishes, perform a quick release according to your model’s instructions. Remove about ¼ cup of the liquid, whisk it with the tapioca flour to make a slurry, then stir the slurry back into the pot. Add the broccoli, set the pot to “Keep Warm,” and cover until the broccoli is tender, about 10–15 minutes.
Recipe Notes & Tips
- To slice beef more easily, chill the steak for 20–30 minutes first so it’s firmer and slices thinly against the grain.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat level. Omit entirely for a milder dish.
- Tapioca flour works well as a gluten-free thickener; cornstarch can be used as an alternative if preferred.
- For extra flavor, let the cooked beef rest in the sauce for 10 minutes before adding the slurry and broccoli to deepen the taste.
- Serve with steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or a bed of greens for a lower-carb option.
Recipe Facts
- Yield: 4 servings
- Total Time (slow cooker): about 4 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time (Instant Pot): about 30 minutes active time plus standing to finish broccoli
- Dietary: Gluten-free and dairy-free when made as written
FAQ
Can I make this in an Instant Pot? Yes—see the Instant Pot method above. It shortens active cooking time while still producing tender beef and a flavorful sauce.
Photography credit: Eat Love Eats.