If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet comes together in a snap, you absolutely must try this Easy Beef & Broccoli Noodles Recipe. It’s a perfect harmony of tender, savory beef, crisp broccoli, and silky noodles all tossed in a rich, mouthwatering sauce. Whether you’re whipping up a weekday dinner or impressing friends with your kitchen skills, this recipe delivers comforting, restaurant-style deliciousness right at home, and without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each one plays an essential role in building the distinct taste, texture, and color of the dish. From the tender flank steak to the vibrant broccoli florets, everything works in harmony to make this meal truly satisfying.
- 8 oz noodles: Lo mein, spaghetti, or rice noodles all soak up the sauce beautifully and provide great texture.
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced: Quick to cook and wonderfully tender when sliced properly against the grain.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Adds color, crunch, and a fresh, slightly bitter counterpoint to the sweet-savory sauce.
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil: Perfect for stir-frying to get that savory sear on the beef and broccoli.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds pungent aroma and depth of flavor that ties the entire dish together.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: The salty, umami backbone of the sauce that enriches every bite.
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce: Brings a subtle sweetness and complex oceanic flavor that lifts the dish.
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce: Adds a touch of sweetness with a hint of smokiness for extra dimension.
- 1 tbsp brown sugar: Balances the savory sauces with gentle sweetness.
- 1 tsp sesame oil: A little drizzle for that classic nutty aroma loved in Asian cooking.
- 1 tsp cornstarch (optional): Helps thicken the sauce slightly for clingy noodles if desired.
- 1/4 cup water: Provides the perfect amount of liquid to marry the sauce ingredients smoothly.
- Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish (optional): Adds freshness, texture, and a pretty finish.
How to Make Easy Beef & Broccoli Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by cooking your noodles according to the package directions—whether you choose lo mein, spaghetti, or rice noodles. Drain them well and set aside so they’re ready to absorb the delicious sauce later. This foundational step ensures your noodles stay tender but not mushy.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
Mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and water in a small bowl. If you want a thicker sauce that clings nicely to every strand and piece of beef and broccoli, whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch. This combination is what gives the dish its signature sweet-savory flavor that makes you want seconds.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet or wok. Add the thinly sliced flank steak, cooking until it develops a beautiful brown crust, about 3 to 4 minutes. Avoid overcrowding the pan to get a nice sear instead of steaming. Once cooked, remove the beef and set it aside—this step locks in that rich flavor and tender texture.
Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Broccoli
Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet, toss in the minced garlic, and sauté for just 30 seconds to release that aromatic punch. Immediately add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes. You want the broccoli to turn bright green and remain crisp-tender, providing a refreshing crunch against the soft noodles and beef.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked beef to the skillet, then add the drained noodles. Pour your pre-mixed sauce over the entire pan. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly so every bite gets coated in that luscious sauce. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. This moment is pure magic as the dish comes alive with aroma and vibrant colors.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish off your Easy Beef & Broccoli Noodles Recipe by sprinkling sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top if you have them. These garnishes add that satisfying crunch and a burst of fresh flavor. Serve immediately for the best taste and enjoy every delightful mouthful!
How to Serve Easy Beef & Broccoli Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Simple toppings like toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions elevate this dish instantly, adding texture and visual appeal. A light sprinkle enhances the nuttiness and freshness, making the presentation just as enjoyable as the flavors.
Side Dishes
If you want to round out your meal, consider pairing this dish with steamed dumplings, a crisp cucumber salad, or even some pickled veggies for a tangy contrast. These sides complement the hearty noodles and beef without stealing the spotlight.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Easy Beef & Broccoli Noodles Recipe in individual bowls topped with a fried egg or some crushed peanuts. You could even wrap the beef and broccoli mixture in lettuce leaves for a handheld option that’s both fresh and satisfying.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish holds up well, though the noodles may absorb some sauce overnight, so adding a splash of water or soy sauce when reheating can help revive its texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but for best results, it’s better to freeze the beef and broccoli separately from the noodles to avoid sogginess. Place each component in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring often to prevent sticking and adding a bit of water or broth if the sauce seems thick. Avoid microwaving for long periods as it can toughen the beef. Coming back to life on the stove is the best way to enjoy the full flavor again.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak is recommended for its tenderness and quick cooking time, you can also use sirloin or skirt steak. Just be sure to slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, and choose rice noodles instead of wheat-based noodles. Make sure other sauces like oyster and hoisin are labeled gluten-free too.
Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in snap peas, bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to brighten the dish and add more nutrients. Just adjust cooking times slightly to keep vegetables crisp-tender.
What if I don’t have oyster sauce or hoisin sauce?
If you’re missing these ingredients, you can substitute with a bit more soy sauce and a touch of honey or brown sugar for sweetness. The flavor profile will shift slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a meal prep?
Absolutely! This Easy Beef & Broccoli Noodles Recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Cook everything fully, cool it completely, and store in portioned containers. Just reheat on the stovetop for quick lunches or dinners during the week.
Final Thoughts
Whipping up this Easy Beef & Broccoli Noodles Recipe is like bringing a little bit of your favorite takeout spot right into your kitchen, but better because you control the ingredients and flavors. With minimal prep and maximum taste, it’s a guaranteed hit whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and add your own personal twist!
Print
Easy Beef & Broccoli Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A quick and flavorful Easy Beef & Broccoli Noodles recipe that combines tender flank steak, crisp broccoli, and savory sauce tossed with your choice of noodles for a perfect weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Noodles
- 8 oz noodles (lo mein, spaghetti, or rice noodles)
Beef & Vegetables
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1/4 cup water
Garnish
- Sesame seeds (optional)
- Green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Prepare the noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside to be added later.
- Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and water. If you want a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch and mix well. Set this mixture aside.
- Cook Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced flank steak and cook for about 3–4 minutes until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté Broccoli and Garlic: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add broccoli florets. Stir-fry the broccoli for 2–3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Combine Beef, Noodles, and Sauce: Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the broccoli. Add the cooked noodles and pour the prepared sauce over everything.
- Toss and Cook: Toss all ingredients together and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the noodles, beef, and broccoli evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for extra flavor and texture. Serve the dish hot for best taste.
Notes
- Use any type of noodles you prefer: lo mein, spaghetti, or rice noodles all work well.
- The cornstarch is optional but helps thicken the sauce slightly for a glossy finish.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of chili sauce to the sauce mixture.
- Thinly slicing the beef against the grain ensures tender bites.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
