The Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe is a delightful and comforting dish that brings together tender slices of flank steak and crisp broccoli florets in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. This vibrant meal is quick to prepare yet packed with flavor, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a satisfying Asian-inspired dinner. The combination of garlic, fresh ginger, and the rich umami of oyster and soy sauces creates a perfect balance that never fails to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential to achieving the signature taste and texture of this Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe. Each item plays a specific role, from the tenderizing marinade elements to the fresh crunch of broccoli and the subtle aroma of sesame oil.
- 1 pound flank steak (thinly sliced against the grain): Choosing flank steak ensures the beef stays tender and juicy after a quick stir-fry.
- 3 cups broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli provides a crisp texture and vibrant green color, making the dish both healthy and visually appealing.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided): A neutral oil with a high smoke point is perfect for stir-frying at high heat without burning.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic adds a pungent and aromatic base that enhances every bite.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (minced): Ginger offers a warm, spicy note that complements the garlic beautifully.
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce: Provides deep umami flavor without overpowering the dish with saltiness.
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce: Brings a rich, slightly sweet, and briny depth to the stir-fry sauce.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce so it coats the beef and broccoli perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Adds a gentle sweetness that balances the savory ingredients.
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water: Keeps the sauce moist and allows flavors to meld during cooking.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: A small but essential touch for a nutty finish and aroma.
- Cooked white rice (for serving): The perfect base for soaking up all the delicious sauce.
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions (optional, for garnish): Adds a delightful crunch and fresh color to the final presentation.
How to Make Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by whisking together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, beef broth, and sesame oil until you get a smooth, harmonious mixture. This sauce is the heartbeat of the dish, coating your beef and broccoli with layers of flavor that are irresistible.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced flank steak in a single layer, cooking it undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes per side. The goal is to get a nice golden-brown crust while keeping the beef slightly undercooked, so it remains tender after the final stir.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Broccoli
Remove the beef and set it aside. In the same pan, add the remaining vegetable oil and quickly sauté the minced garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until they release their fragrant essence. Then toss in the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until they are just tender. If the pan looks dry, add a splash of water to help steam the broccoli without losing its crunch.
Step 4: Combine and Finish Cooking
Return the beef to the pan and pour in the prepared sauce. Stir everything together thoroughly, allowing the sauce to thicken and cling to the ingredients as it cooks for another 2 to 3 minutes. This final step ensures the beef is cooked through and the broccoli absorbs all those wonderful flavors.
How to Serve Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish even further, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and freshly sliced green onions on top just before serving. These simple garnishes add texture, color, and a professional touch that will wow your guests or family.
Side Dishes
The classic companion is steamed white rice, which balances the savory richness of the stir-fry. For a lighter option, you can serve it with cauliflower rice or a crisp Asian cucumber salad to add freshness and contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe in colorful bowls or even wrapped in warm lettuce cups for a fun twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, top it with a fried egg or a drizzle of chili oil for some extra heat and depth.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen, making for an even more delicious meal the next day.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well. Simply cool the stir-fry completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to two months. Just remember that broccoli’s texture may soften after thawing, but the beef and sauce will still taste amazing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir frequently to warm everything evenly without drying out the beef.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak is preferred for its tenderness and flavor, sirloin or skirt steak are great alternatives. Just remember to slice thinly against the grain to ensure the beef stays tender.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make the recipe gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce substitute instead of regular soy sauce. Make sure your oyster sauce is also certified gluten-free or use a suitable alternative.
What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce on hand, you can use hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce with a touch of brown sugar as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can this dish be made vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Replace the beef with firm tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Make sure to pick a vegetarian oyster sauce or use mushroom sauce to keep that umami kick.
Is this recipe spicy?
The base recipe is mild, but you can easily add heat by including red pepper flakes, a splash of sriracha, or fresh chili slices according to your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about cooking this Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe at home—it’s fast, flavorful, and full of textures that delight the palate. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or someone looking to impress with minimal fuss, this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. So heat up your wok and dive in—the perfect beef and broccoli dish is just minutes away!
Print
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a quick, flavorful Asian-inspired dish perfect for a healthy weeknight meal. Tender flank steak is cooked to perfection with crisp broccoli florets in a savory soy and oyster sauce, all stir-fried together for a delicious and satisfying main course.
Ingredients
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
Sauce
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For Serving & Garnish
- Cooked white rice
- Sesame seeds (optional)
- Sliced green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, beef broth, and sesame oil until smooth. Set aside.
- Cook beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove the beef and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics and broccoli: In the same pan, add the remaining vegetable oil, then sauté garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the broccoli and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until just tender, adding a splash of water as needed to create steam and cook the broccoli properly.
- Combine beef and sauce: Return the beef to the pan along with the prepared sauce. Stir well and cook for 2–3 minutes more until the sauce thickens and the beef is cooked through.
- Serve: Serve the beef and broccoli hot over cooked white rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
- You can substitute chicken or tofu for the beef for a different protein option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
