This Beef and Broccoli recipe is pure weeknight gold—tender strips of beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and a glossy, savory sauce all come together in under half an hour. It tastes just like your favorite takeout, but homemade and even more flavorful! If you’ve ever wanted to master a Beef and Broccoli stir-fry that’s both simple and incredibly satisfying, you’re about to discover a new favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in Beef and Broccoli matters, from the rich umami of the beef to the vibrant crunch of fresh broccoli. These pantry staples and fresh finds are what make this classic stir-fry taste so bright and bold—don’t skip anything!
- Flank steak (1 pound): Slice thinly against the grain for the most tender bites—this cut soaks up all the flavors!
- Broccoli florets (3 cups): Use fresh, bright green broccoli for ideal color and crunch.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons, divided): For stir-frying—choose a neutral oil to let the other flavors shine.
- Low-sodium soy sauce (1/4 cup): It brings depth and that classic savory tang, while keeping saltiness in check.
- Oyster sauce (1/4 cup): Adds a glossy texture and rich, slightly sweet umami punch.
- Brown sugar (2 tablespoons): Just a touch to balance out the savory and amplify caramelized notes.
- Cornstarch (2 tablespoons): Both thickens the sauce and helps the beef get that irresistible crust.
- Beef broth (1/2 cup): Melds everything together for a silky, restaurant-style sauce.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Fresh garlic is essential for that aromatic depth.
- Fresh ginger, grated (1 teaspoon): Brightens the dish and adds just a hint of spice.
- Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): For drizzling at the end, it delivers a signature nutty finish!
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Grounds the flavors and gives a light bite.
- Cooked white rice, for serving: Fluffy and ready to soak up that delicious sauce.
- Sliced green onions & sesame seeds, for garnish: Add a sprinkle of color and crunch right before serving.
How to Make Beef and Broccoli
Step 1: Prep the Beef
Start by slicing your flank steak as thinly as possible—this makes every bite melt-in-your-mouth tender. Toss it in a bowl with one tablespoon of cornstarch and the black pepper so the pieces get that magical coating. This lets the beef sear beautifully and helps the sauce cling to every morsel.
Step 2: Whisk the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, remaining cornstarch, and beef broth. You want that cornstarch completely dissolved and no lumps in sight—this mixture forms the glossy, flavorful sauce that envelops your Beef and Broccoli.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Broccoli
Put your wok or skillet over medium-high heat and swirl in one tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in your broccoli and stir-fry for about 3 to 4 minutes until it turns bright green and just barely tender. Set it aside—you want it crisp, not mushy!
Step 4: Cook the Beef
Return the skillet to the heat, add the last tablespoon of oil, and lay the beef in a single layer. Let it sizzle for about 2 to 3 minutes per side; it should get nice browned edges and start to caramelize. Right before the beef is done, add in the minced garlic and fresh grated ginger—stir for just 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Return the broccoli to the pan, and pour your prepared sauce over the beef and broccoli. Stir, making sure every piece is coated, and let everything simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. The sauce will thicken and turn glossy. Finish with a drizzle of sesame oil and toss well.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Spoon your fresh-off-the-stove Beef and Broccoli over a bed of fluffy white rice. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and a shower of sesame seeds for that restaurant-style finish—dinner is served!
How to Serve Beef and Broccoli
Garnishes
Take your beautiful stir-fry to the next level by topping it with fresh green onions and a generous scatter of toasted sesame seeds. These little extras add a pop of color, crunch, and nuttiness that make Beef and Broccoli look and taste extra special. A light drizzle of sesame oil right before serving enhances the aroma, making every plate guest-ready.
Side Dishes
Nothing beats steaming white rice when it comes to soaking up all that velvety sauce. For a fresh touch, consider adding a simple cucumber salad or some quick-pickled carrots on the side. Jasmine or brown rice is also fantastic for a heartier meal—just keep it plain to let the main dish shine. If you’re feeling extra, fold in some sautéed snow peas or bell peppers to round out the colors and textures.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting or just want to wow your family, try serving Beef and Broccoli in individual bowls over rice with an artful swirl of sauce on top. Or, pile it high on a platter, sprinkle with extra green onions, and surround it with fresh orange slices for a burst of color and a little citrus aroma. For an easy handheld snack, wrap a scoopful in a crisp lettuce leaf—it makes a perfect appetizer at any gathering!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Beef and Broccoli stores beautifully, making it a great candidate for meal prep. Cool your leftovers completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors actually meld and improve with time, so don’t hesitate to double the batch for easy weekday lunches!
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze Beef and Broccoli in portioned containers—just make sure everything is fully cooled before sealing. While the texture of broccoli may soften a bit once thawed, the sauce and beef stay delicious. It’s a lifesaver for those nights you need something quick and comforting.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm your Beef and Broccoli gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce. The microwave works, too—just cover and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. Serve with fresh green onion and a sprinkle of sesame seeds to bring back that just-cooked flavor!
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While flank steak is classic for Beef and Broccoli, you can use sirloin, skirt steak, or even pre-sliced stir-fry beef from the butcher. The key is to keep the slices thin so they cook quickly and stay tender.
Is Beef and Broccoli gluten-free?
Yes, it can be! Just swap out the regular soy sauce for tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce. Double-check your oyster sauce too—many brands now offer gluten-free versions for a completely safe and delicious meal.
Can I make this vegetarian?
For a meat-free twist, substitute the beef with sliced mushrooms, tofu, or tempeh and use vegetable broth in place of beef broth. The sauce and broccoli pair up perfectly with these plant-based proteins for a lighter, meatless dish.
How spicy is this dish?
Beef and Broccoli is mild by default, but you can easily add a kick by tossing in some red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha at the end. Adjust the heat level to your liking—make it bold or keep it mellow for the whole family.
What’s the best way to slice the beef?
The secret to perfectly tender Beef and Broccoli is slicing the steak thinly against the grain. This makes each piece more tender and helps it cook evenly. If you have time, pop the beef in the freezer for 20 minutes before slicing—it becomes much easier to get super-thin cuts!
Final Thoughts
There is truly nothing like a hot, homemade plate of Beef and Broccoli to brighten up your dinner routine. It delivers speedy comfort and incredible flavor in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe—let it become your new go-to for weeknight cravings and takeout fix nights alike!
Print
Beef and Broccoli Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Beef and broccoli stir-fry is a classic Chinese dish that combines tender slices of beef with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Beef:
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup beef broth
For the Stir-Fry:
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice
- Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Toss the sliced flank steak with 1 tablespoon cornstarch and black pepper.
- Make the Sauce: Whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, remaining cornstarch, and beef broth.
- Stir-Fry: Cook broccoli in oil, then cook steak. Add garlic, ginger, and sauce. Cook until thickened.
- Finish: Drizzle with sesame oil, garnish, and serve over rice.
Notes
- Marinate beef for extra flavor before cooking.
- Use tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Add red pepper flakes for heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
