If you’re looking for a cozy, flavor-packed meal that feels like your favorite takeout—without the wait—Sesame Beef and Broccoli needs to be at the top of your dinner list. This dish brings together tender slices of beef, crisp broccoli, and a glossy, savory-sweet sauce, all finished with a crunchy sprinkle of sesame seeds and fresh green onions. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or those evenings when you crave something satisfying yet simple, with every bite balancing bold flavors and textures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a handful of staple ingredients come together to make Sesame Beef and Broccoli absolutely irresistible. Each element adds its own note, from umami to crunch, and makes the finished stir-fry shine in both taste and appearance.
- Flank steak or sirloin (1 pound): Sliced against the grain, this ensures ultra-tender bites that soak up all the flavors.
- Soy sauce (3 tablespoons): Brings that coveted salty-savoriness and deep color to the sauce.
- Oyster sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and depth—it’s the secret to getting restaurant-quality flavor.
- Hoisin sauce (2 tablespoons): Lends a little sweetness and plenty of dimension to round out the sauce.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): A splash of brightness that cuts through the richness for balance.
- Honey (1 tablespoon): Offers natural sweetness with a light floral edge.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Coats the beef for a velvety texture and helps thicken the sauce.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Perfect for high-heat stir-frying and gives everything a subtle sheen.
- Broccoli florets (3 cups): Fresh, green, and wonderfully crunchy—broccoli takes this dish from good to irresistible.
- Garlic cloves, minced (3): Adds bold, aromatic punch to the stir-fry.
- Fresh ginger, minced (1 tablespoon): Gives the dish a gentle heat and zesty fragrance.
- Water (1/4 cup): Helps steam the veggies and keep everything moving in the pan.
- Toasted sesame seeds (2 tablespoons): Not just decorative—they add nutty crunch you’ll love.
- Green onions, sliced (2): For a fresh, sharp finish to the final dish.
- Cooked jasmine rice (for serving): Fluffy and fragrant, this soaks up every last drop of sauce.
How to Make Sesame Beef and Broccoli
Step 1: Coat the Beef
Start by tossing your thinly sliced beef with cornstarch in a medium bowl. This step creates a light coating that helps the beef brown beautifully in the pan and gives the finished sauce a luscious, silky texture. Make sure every strip is evenly covered for the best result.
Step 2: Whisk the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and honey until smooth and well blended. This mixture is the heart of Sesame Beef and Broccoli—rich, just the right amount of sweet, and utterly crave-worthy.
Step 3: Sear the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high. Sear the beef in batches, letting each side develop a deep brown crust—around 2 to 3 minutes per side. This locks in the juices and flavor. Transfer the browned beef to a plate and set aside while you move on to the veggies.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Broccoli, Garlic, and Ginger
In the same skillet, add the remaining oil, the broccoli florets, minced garlic, and ginger. Pour in the water to help steam the broccoli. Stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes, just until the broccoli is tender but still crisp and vibrant green, and the water evaporates. Your kitchen will smell incredible!
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Return the seared beef to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour in your prepared sauce, then give everything a thorough toss. Let it cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, just until the sauce thickens slightly and every piece of beef and broccoli is gleaming and coated. Remove from the heat and get ready to garnish.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Sprinkle the finished stir-fry with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately, heaped over fluffy jasmine rice, so that sauce seeps into every bite. At this point, it’s all about digging in and savoring those layers of flavor you’ve just created.
How to Serve Sesame Beef and Broccoli
Garnishes
Garnishes aren’t just for show—they add flavor and crunch! Top Sesame Beef and Broccoli with plenty of toasted sesame seeds for a nutty pop, and a handful of sliced green onions for freshness and color. If you’re a fan of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes is also a fantastic touch.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs best with a simple bowl of jasmine rice, but you can also serve it alongside steamed brown rice or even quinoa for a different twist. For a more elaborate meal, add a light cucumber salad, garlicky sautéed greens, or some quick-pickled vegetables to the table.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving guests, consider plating Sesame Beef and Broccoli in shallow bowls, topping each with a swirl of sesame seeds and green onion curls. For a fun family-style dinner, let everyone serve themselves straight from the skillet—just set out steamed rice and extra garnishes so everyone can make their plate their own.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), let the sesame beef and broccoli cool down before transferring it into an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors only get deeper and richer as it sits, making for a delicious next-day lunch.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze Sesame Beef and Broccoli for future meals. Pack cooled portions in freezer-safe containers. For best texture, eat within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before you reheat to keep everything tender and tasty.
Reheating
To reheat, simply microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes until hot, or warm gently in a skillet over medium heat. If the sauce seems a bit thick after chilling, splash in a tablespoon or two of water to bring everything back to its just-cooked, glossy state.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for Sesame Beef and Broccoli?
Absolutely! While flank steak or sirloin deliver the most tender results, you can use skirt steak or even thinly sliced ribeye if you have them on hand. Just remember to slice against the grain for best tenderness.
What’s the best way to get broccoli perfectly tender-crisp?
The key is a quick stir-fry with a splash of water to steam. Cook just until the broccoli turns bright green and slightly softened—it should still have a bit of snap for texture and color.
Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Yes! Just be sure to use a high-quality gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari) and double-check your oyster and hoisin sauces for any hidden gluten. The rest of the ingredients should be naturally gluten-free.
Is there a vegetarian version of Sesame Beef and Broccoli?
Definitely. Firm tofu or seitan are great alternatives. Marinate and stir-fry them just as you would with beef; the sauce still delivers all the bold, umami-packed flavors for a meatless version.
How do I make this dish spicier?
If you want a little kick, try mixing a pinch of red pepper flakes into the sauce or drizzle some sriracha over the finished dish. You’re in control of the heat, so start small and add to taste.
Final Thoughts
Give Sesame Beef and Broccoli a spot in your regular dinner lineup—you won’t regret it! It’s quicker than takeout, incredibly flavorful, and certain to win over everyone at your table. Grab your skillet and let the delicious aromas whisk you away to your favorite Asian restaurant, right in your own kitchen.
Print
Sesame Beef and Broccoli Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Sesame Beef and Broccoli recipe is a quick and flavorful Asian stir-fry that’s perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner. Tender slices of beef are coated in a savory sauce, paired with crisp broccoli, and sprinkled with toasted sesame seeds for added crunch and nuttiness. Serve over jasmine rice for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
For the Beef:
- 1 pound flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Stir-Fry:
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced
- cooked jasmine rice for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Toss the sliced beef with cornstarch until coated.
- Make the Sauce: Whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and honey.
- Cook the Beef: Sear beef in batches until browned, then set aside.
- Stir-Fry: Cook broccoli, garlic, and ginger, then add beef and sauce. Cook until thickened.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve over rice.
Notes
- For extra heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- This recipe is also delicious with chicken or tofu.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
