There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming plate of beef and broccoli stir-fry. The tender slices of beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and rich, savory sauce come together to create a dish that’s both satisfying and quick to make. This classic takeout favorite has deep roots in Chinese-American cuisine, blending the bold umami flavors of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger with the freshness of vibrant green broccoli.

this RECIPE FOR LATER

For many, beef and broccoli is more than just a dish—it’s a weeknight lifesaver. It’s the kind of recipe that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you crave something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize, so whether you like a little extra spice or prefer more vegetables, you can make it exactly how you like.

In this recipe, I’ll walk you through how to make an authentic beef and broccoli stir-fry right at home—no takeout required! With a few simple ingredients and an easy stir-fry technique, you’ll be able to whip up a restaurant-quality meal in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
• Better Than Takeout – Homemade means fresher ingredients and a better balance of flavors.
• Customizable – Add more veggies, adjust the sauce to your liking, or make it spicier!
• Healthy & Wholesome – No added preservatives, just fresh ingredients cooked to perfection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Beef Marinade:

• 12 oz beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon sesame oil

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce (for color and richness)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ½ cup chicken broth or water
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

For the Stir-Fry:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

How to Make Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

Thinly slice the beef against the grain to ensure tenderness. In a bowl, mix the beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients. This quick marinade helps tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, chicken broth (or water), and cornstarch. Stir well to dissolve the cornstarch. This sauce will give the dish its signature glossy coating and deep, savory taste.

Step 3: Blanch the Broccoli

To get that vibrant green color and crisp-tender texture, blanch the broccoli. Bring a pot of water to a boil, add the broccoli, and cook for about 30 seconds. Drain immediately and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This step ensures the broccoli stays bright and fresh in the stir-fry.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and swirl to coat the pan. Add the marinated beef in a single layer and cook for about 1-2 minutes per side, until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.

Step 5: Stir-Fry Everything Together

In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the blanched broccoli and stir to coat it in the aromatics.

Return the beef to the pan and pour in the sauce. Stir everything together and let the sauce thicken for about 1-2 minutes. Once the sauce coats the beef and broccoli nicely, remove from heat.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the beef and broccoli hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for an extra touch of flavor.

Helpful Tips

• Slice the Beef Thinly – Cutting the beef against the grain into thin slices ensures it stays tender and easy to chew.
• Marinate for Extra Tenderness – Even a short marinade helps break down the beef’s fibers, making it juicier and more flavorful.
• Blanching the Broccoli – This step keeps the broccoli from getting too soft during the stir-fry process.
• Use High Heat – Stir-frying works best with high heat to get that signature restaurant-style sear on the beef.
• Customize It! – Add carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra texture and color.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 2-3 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stir-Fry
• Cuisine: Chinese
• Diet: Dairy-Free

Notes

• If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix an additional ½ teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the pan at the end.
• You can swap beef for chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
• For a low-carb version, serve over cauliflower rice or on its own.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: ~28g
• Carbohydrates: ~18g
• Fat: ~15g
• Fiber: ~3g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! If using frozen broccoli, skip the blanching step and add it directly to the stir-fry. Cook it a little longer to ensure it heats through properly.

What’s the best cut of beef for this recipe?

Flank steak and sirloin work best because they stay tender when cooked quickly over high heat.

How do I make this spicier?

Add more crushed red pepper flakes, a dash of sriracha, or some sliced chili peppers.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and marinate the beef ahead of time. When ready to eat, just cook everything fresh for the best taste and texture.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freeze: You can freeze the cooked beef and broccoli in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Related Recipes

If you liked this beef and broccoli stir-fry, you’ll love these other easy and delicious recipes:

• Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry: A Quick and Flavorful Meal
• The BEST Mongolian Beef – Tender, Saucy & Better Than Takeout!
• Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry
• Slow Cooker Pepper Steak: A Comforting Classic

Conclusion

Homemade Chinese beef and broccoli is the perfect combination of easy, delicious, and satisfying. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple stir-fry method, you can create a takeout favorite right in your own kitchen. Plus, it’s healthier, fresher, and fully customizable to your taste.

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