If you’re craving a dinner that’s bursting with savory goodness and comes together in a flash, this Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe is your new best friend. Tender slices of flank steak marinated in a flavorful blend of soy, oyster, and hoisin sauces mingle perfectly with sweet, caramelized onions, creating a harmonious dance of taste and texture. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this dish delivers big on comfort and satisfaction, all while being incredibly simple to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe relies on a handful of key ingredients that balance each other beautifully. Each component plays a pivotal role, from the tender beef to the fragrant ginger, all combining for a dish that’s colorful, rich, and delightfully textured.
- Flank steak (1 pound, thinly sliced against the grain): Ensures tender, flavorful meat that cooks quickly and stays juicy.
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds a deep, salty umami foundation to the marinade and stir-fry.
- Oyster sauce (1 tablespoon): Brings a subtle sweetness and complexity to the beef’s flavor.
- Hoisin sauce (1 tablespoon): Introduces a hint of tangy sweetness, perfectly complementing the savory notes.
- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Imparts a delicate nutty aroma that elevates the dish’s authenticity.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Helps create a luscious coating that locks in juices and thickens the sauce slightly.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons, divided): Ideal for high-heat cooking, ensuring a quick sear and caramelization without smoking.
- Yellow onions (2 medium, sliced): Bring sweetness and softness as they caramelize, balancing the savory beef.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds pungent warmth that awakens every bite.
- Fresh ginger (1 teaspoon, grated): Provides a zesty, fresh kick that brightens the overall flavor.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle heat without overpowering the dish.
- Green onions or sesame seeds (optional, for garnish): Give a fresh burst of color and texture at serving time.
How to Make Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Start by tossing your thinly sliced flank steak in a bowl with soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and black pepper. This marinade is magic in a bowl—the sauces penetrate the meat, tenderizing it and layering in flavor. Letting it rest for at least 15 minutes allows the beef to soak up all those rich, savory notes, setting the stage for an incredible stir fry.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat until it’s shimmering. Add the marinated beef in a single layer. You want to sear it quickly, about 1 to 2 minutes per side, just until the edges brown but the meat isn’t fully cooked yet. This quick sear locks in the juices and forms beautiful caramelized bits, which are pure flavor gold. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside—we’ll finish cooking it later.
Step 3: Cook the Onions
In the same hot pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil and toss in the sliced yellow onions. Let them cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they soften and begin to caramelize. This step adds wonderful sweetness and richness that perfectly balances the savory beef. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent any burning.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Ginger
Once the onions are beautifully softened, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for about one more minute, stirring continuously to release their fragrant oils and avoid burning. These aromatics bring vibrant warmth and a subtle zing that truly lift this Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe to the next level.
Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking
Return the seared beef to the skillet and toss everything together. Stir-fry for another 2 to 3 minutes until the beef is cooked through and coated in that glossy, flavorful marinade. This final step marries all the ingredients and ensures each bite is layered with tenderness, sweetness, and umami goodness.
How to Serve Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
For a simple finishing touch, sprinkle sliced green onions or a handful of toasted sesame seeds over your stir fry. Not only do they add a fresh, crunchy contrast, but they also bring an extra pop of color that makes the dish as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Side Dishes
This Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe pairs beautifully with steamed white or jasmine rice, which soaks up the savory sauce perfectly. Alternatively, serve it over egg noodles or rice noodles for a heartier meal. A side of steamed or stir-fried greens, like bok choy or broccoli, adds a lovely fresh crunch and balances the richness of the beef.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to shake things up, try serving this stir fry in lettuce cups for a fun, hand-held meal. You can also pile it on top of a bowl of fluffy quinoa or cauliflower rice for a grain-free option. Drizzle a little extra sesame oil or a splash of rice vinegar right before serving for an added flavor twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover beef and onions can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches that feel just as satisfying as freshly made.
Freezing
You can freeze this stir fry for up to one month. Cool it completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. To maintain the best texture, consider freezing the beef and onions separately from any rice or noodles you’re serving on the side.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if the dish seems dry. Avoid microwaving for long periods to keep the beef tender and the onions deliciously soft rather than rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this stir fry?
Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal for its tenderness and quick cooking time, other cuts like sirloin or skirt steak work well too. Just be sure to slice the meat thinly against the grain to keep it tender.
Is it necessary to marinate the beef?
Marinating enhances flavor and tenderness, but if you’re in a pinch, you can skip this step. Your stir fry won’t have quite the same depth of flavor, but it will still be delicious when cooked properly and seasoned well.
Can I add vegetables other than onions?
Definitely! Bell peppers, snow peas, or snap peas make fantastic additions that add color and crunch. Add them after the onions start to soften to avoid overcooking.
What can I use if I don’t have hoisin sauce?
In a pinch, substitute with a mix of soy sauce and a little honey or molasses to mimic the sweetness and depth. The flavor will be a bit different but still tasty and satisfying.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Not as written, since soy sauce and oyster sauce typically contain gluten. To make it gluten-free, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce and check for gluten-free oyster sauce alternatives.
Final Thoughts
This Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe is truly a winner for anyone who loves quick, flavorful meals packed with tender meat and melt-in-your-mouth onions. Its straightforward ingredients and simple steps make it perfect for cooks of all skills, promising a satisfying dish that feels both comforting and special. Give it a try tonight—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Print
Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
A quick and flavorful Beef and Onion Stir Fry featuring tender marinated flank steak with caramelized onions, garlic, and ginger, cooked to perfection in a hot skillet. This Asian-inspired dish is perfect for a fast, satisfying dinner served over steamed rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Beef Marinade
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Stir Fry
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 2 medium yellow onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
Garnish (optional)
- Sliced green onions or sesame seeds
Instructions
- Marinate the beef: In a medium bowl, combine the thinly sliced flank steak with soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and black pepper. Toss well to coat the beef evenly and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Sear the beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Spread the marinated beef out in a single layer and sear each side for 1–2 minutes until the beef is browned but not fully cooked. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the onions: Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Add the sliced onions and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and start to caramelize, developing a sweet flavor.
- Sauté garlic and ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated fresh ginger with the onions. Cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Finish the stir fry: Return the seared beef to the skillet with the onions, garlic, and ginger. Toss everything together and stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes until the beef is fully cooked through and coated with the flavorful sauce.
- Serve: Serve the beef and onion stir fry hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of rice vinegar or a dash of chili flakes during the stir-fry.
- This dish pairs well with additional vegetables like bell peppers or snow peas, which can be added along with the onions.
- Ensure the beef is sliced thinly against the grain for the most tender results.
- Do not overcook the beef during searing to keep it juicy and tender.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
