Quick & Flavorful Beef and Broccoli Recipe to Satisfy Your Stir-Fry Craving

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a sizzling skillet of beef and broccoli. It’s one of those dishes that bridges convenience and crave-worthy flavor in a single bowl. Whether you’re winding down after a long workday, looking for a meal to satisfy your family’s appetite, or trying to recreate your favorite takeout dish, this quick and flavorful beef and broccoli recipe delivers every time.

This dish has roots in Chinese-American cuisine, and it’s inspired by the familiar blend of tender beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and a glossy, umami-rich sauce. Growing up, it was the dish we always ordered from our neighborhood Chinese takeout spot—and eventually, it became a go-to comfort meal in our own kitchen. This homemade version is just as satisfying but even fresher, healthier, and quicker than delivery.

Why You’ll Love This Beef and Broccoli Recipe

• 30-Minute Meal: Quick enough for weeknights
• Better Than Takeout: Rich in flavor, without the excess oil or sodium
• Simple Ingredients: No hard-to-find specialty items
• Versatile: Serve it over rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Keeps well in the fridge for easy lunches

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or avocado oil)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

For the Marinade & Sauce:

• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
• 1/2 cup beef broth or water
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For Serving:

• Steamed white rice, brown rice, or noodles
• Toasted sesame seeds (optional)
• Sliced green onions for garnish

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, sesame oil, red pepper flakes (if using), and cornstarch until smooth. Set aside.

2. Marinate the Beef

Place sliced beef in a medium bowl. Pour 2–3 tablespoons of the sauce over the beef and toss to coat. Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes while you prep the rest of your ingredients.

3. Cook the Broccoli

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add broccoli and stir-fry for about 3–4 minutes until bright green and just tender. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

4. Sear the Beef

Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan. Add the marinated beef in a single layer, cooking undisturbed for 1–2 minutes to get a good sear, then stir-fry for another 1–2 minutes until browned and mostly cooked through.

5. Add Aromatics and Sauce

Push the beef to the sides of the pan. Add minced garlic and ginger to the center and stir for about 30 seconds. Return broccoli to the pan and pour in the remaining sauce.

6. Simmer Until Saucy

Toss everything together and cook for another 2–3 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and broccoli evenly.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, if desired.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Beef and Broccoli

• Slice the Beef Thinly: Freezing the steak for 15–20 minutes beforehand makes it easier to slice thin.
• Use High Heat: Stir-frying is all about quick cooking over high heat. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
• Cornstarch is Key: It helps tenderize the beef and thickens the sauce for that classic glossy finish.
• Pre-Mix the Sauce: Having it ready makes the cooking process smooth and fast.

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Healthy Variations

• Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and make sure oyster sauce is gluten-free
• More Veggies: Add snap peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a boost in nutrients
• Vegan Option: Swap beef for tofu or tempeh and use a plant-based oyster sauce

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What to Serve with Beef and Broccoli

Pair this stir-fry with any of the following to complete your meal:

• Steamed Jasmine or Brown Rice
• Garlic Noodles or Lo Mein
• Asian Cucumber Salad
• Egg Drop Soup
• Hot Jasmine Tea or Ginger-Lemon Sparkling Water

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Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

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Common Questions About Beef and Broccoli

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just thaw it first and pat it dry. It may not be as crisp-tender but still works.

What’s the best cut of beef?
Flank steak, sirloin, or skirt steak are ideal. Just be sure to slice thinly against the grain.

Is oyster sauce necessary?
It adds depth and umami, but you can substitute with extra soy sauce and a bit of sugar in a pinch.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it’s great for meal prep. Just keep the sauce separate until reheating for best texture.

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Make It Your Own: Delicious Variations

Spicy Szechuan-Style Beef and Broccoli

• Add 1 tablespoon of chili garlic sauce or Szechuan peppercorns to the sauce
• Garnish with extra chili oil and scallions

Garlic Lover’s Version

• Double the amount of garlic
• Finish with a drizzle of garlic-infused oil

Beef and Broccoli Ramen

• Skip the rice and toss everything with cooked ramen noodles
• Add a boiled egg and some baby spinach for a heartier bowl

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Final Thoughts: Stir-Fry That Brings Everyone to the Table

This beef and broccoli stir-fry is a weeknight hero, balancing bold flavors and wholesome ingredients in one skillet. It’s a dish that proves home cooking can be faster, fresher, and more satisfying than takeout.

With its tender beef, vibrant broccoli, and savory sauce, this recipe is a keeper. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or guests, it’s guaranteed to hit the spot. Try it once, and it just might become your new go-to meal.

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