I’ve made this beef broccoli recipe more times than I can count, and every single time it disappears faster than takeout. The first time I tried it, I honestly couldn’t believe how simple it was.
The sauce turned glossy and rich in minutes, and the beef stayed perfectly tender. Now it’s one of those back-pocket dinners I rely on when I want something quick but impressive. If you love bold flavors and easy cooking, you’re going to love this one too.
Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain – Slicing against the grain keeps the beef tender and easy to chew. Flank steak is ideal because it cooks quickly and absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch – Coating the beef with cornstarch locks in moisture and helps create that silky, glossy restaurant-style sauce.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point to properly sear the beef without burning.
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets – Fresh broccoli stays crisp and vibrant. Frozen broccoli can release excess water and turn mushy.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Freshly minced garlic delivers bold, aromatic flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated – Fresh ginger adds a bright, slightly spicy kick that balances the savory sauce.
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce – Low-sodium soy sauce keeps the dish flavorful without becoming overly salty.
- ¼ cup brown sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the saltiness and helps the sauce caramelize beautifully.
- ½ cup beef broth – Deepens the savory flavor and creates a rich base for the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce – Brings authentic umami depth and subtle sweetness to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil – Adds a nutty finish; stir it in at the end for maximum aroma and flavor.
- Cooked white rice, for serving – Perfect for soaking up the rich, savory sauce and completing the meal.
Note: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. You can double the sauce if you prefer extra for drizzling over rice.
Variations
This beef broccoli recipe is flexible and easy to customize. You can also enjoy similar comforting dishes like cheesy-buffalo-chicken-strombolis-recipe.
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free.
- If you prefer a lower-sugar option, reduce the brown sugar or substitute with a natural sweetener like monk fruit.
- Want extra heat? Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
- You can also swap flank steak for sirloin or skirt steak if that’s what you have on hand, or try hearty meal ideas such as easy-sausage-casserole-recipe.
- For added texture, toss in sliced bell peppers, snow peas, or mushrooms.
Cooking Time
Here’s how long this beef broccoli recipe takes from start to finish:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something fast and satisfying.
Equipment You Need
- Large skillet or wok – For high-heat searing and stir-frying
- Sharp knife – To slice the beef thinly and evenly
- Cutting board – For prepping beef and vegetables
- Mixing bowls – To combine sauce ingredients and coat beef
- Whisk – To mix the sauce smoothly
How to Make Beef Broccoli Recipe?
This dish comes together quickly, so it helps to have everything prepped before you start cooking. Once the pan gets hot, the process moves fast. Follow these simple steps for the best results.
Prepare the Beef
Start by slicing the flank steak thinly against the grain. This step is crucial for tenderness. Place the sliced beef in a bowl and toss it with cornstarch until evenly coated. The cornstarch helps seal in moisture and gives the sauce a velvety texture.
Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, and oyster sauce. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. This sauce creates the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and savory flavors that define a great beef broccoli recipe.
Cook the Broccoli
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli and cook for 3 to 4 minutes. You want it bright green and slightly crisp. Remove it from the pan and set it aside so it doesn’t overcook.
Sear the Beef
Add the remaining oil to the skillet. Spread the beef in a single layer and let it sear undisturbed. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side. This quick, high-heat cooking keeps the beef tender and flavorful.
Add Garlic and Ginger
Once the beef is nearly cooked through, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them, as garlic can turn bitter quickly.
Combine Everything
Return the broccoli to the pan. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir well. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and broccoli beautifully.
Finish and Serve
Drizzle sesame oil over the dish and give it one final stir. Remove from heat and serve immediately over warm white rice for the ultimate comfort meal.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
After making this recipe many times, I’ve picked up a few tricks that make it even better:
- I always freeze the steak for about 20 minutes before slicing. It makes cutting thin, even strips much easier.
- I avoid overcrowding the pan. When I cook the beef in batches, I get a better sear.
- I taste the sauce before adding it to the pan. If I want it sweeter or saltier, I adjust it right then.
- I slightly undercook the broccoli because it continues to cook once added back to the sauce.
- I sometimes add a splash of rice vinegar for a subtle tang that brightens the whole dish.
How to Serve Beef Broccoli Recipe?
This beef broccoli recipe is best served hot over fluffy white rice. The rice absorbs the savory sauce and makes every bite satisfying.
For a healthier twist, serve it over brown rice or quinoa. You can also spoon it over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Garnish with sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor and a beautiful presentation. A wedge of lime on the side adds a fresh finish.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 350–400 kcal
- Protein: 28–32g
- Carbohydrates: 25–30g
- Fat: 15–18g
Values may vary depending on portion size and ingredient substitutions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing
Store leftover beef broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 4 days.
Make sure it cools completely before sealing to prevent excess moisture buildup.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
For best texture, slightly undercook the broccoli before freezing so it doesn’t become too soft when reheated.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring between each, to ensure even heating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This beef broccoli recipe is one of those meals that checks every box.
- Quick and easy
I can get dinner on the table in just 30 minutes, which makes it perfect for busy evenings. - Better than takeout
The flavors are rich and balanced, and I control the ingredients, so it tastes fresh every time. - Customizable
I can adjust sweetness, saltiness, or spice depending on what I’m craving. - Family-friendly
The savory sauce and tender beef make it a hit with both kids and adults. - Budget-conscious
Making it at home costs much less than ordering from a restaurant.
If you’re craving a classic Asian-inspired dinner that’s fast, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, this beef broccoli recipe is exactly what you need. Once you try it, you might never order takeout again.
Beef Broccoli Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Start by slicing the flank steak thinly against the grain. This step is crucial for tenderness. Place the sliced beef in a bowl and toss it with cornstarch until evenly coated. The cornstarch helps seal in moisture and gives the sauce a velvety texture.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, and oyster sauce. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. This sauce creates the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and savory flavors that define a great beef broccoli recipe.
- Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli and cook for 3 to 4 minutes. You want it bright green and slightly crisp. Remove it from the pan and set it aside so it doesn’t overcook.
- Add the remaining oil to the skillet. Spread the beef in a single layer and let it sear undisturbed. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side. This quick, high-heat cooking keeps the beef tender and flavorful.
- Once the beef is nearly cooked through, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them, as garlic can turn bitter quickly.
- Return the broccoli to the pan. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir well. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and broccoli beautifully.
- Drizzle sesame oil over the dish and give it one final stir. Remove from heat and serve immediately over warm white rice for the ultimate comfort meal.
Notes
- I always freeze the steak for about 20 minutes before slicing. It makes cutting thin, even strips much easier.
- I avoid overcrowding the pan. When I cook the beef in batches, I get a better sear.
- I taste the sauce before adding it to the pan. If I want it sweeter or saltier, I adjust it right then.
- I slightly undercook the broccoli because it continues to cook once added back to the sauce.
- I sometimes add a splash of rice vinegar for a subtle tang that brightens the whole dish.