Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a homemade stir fry. The sizzling of the pan, the aroma of garlic and ginger filling the kitchen, and the vibrant mix of fresh ingredients all come together to create a meal that feels both comforting and exciting. This Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a classic, combining tender beef with crisp, flavorful broccoli, all coated in a savory, slightly sweet sauce that clings to every bite.

Stir fry dishes are a staple in many households because they are quick to prepare, customizable, and packed with flavor. This version is easy to make and rivals any takeout, delivering that perfect balance of tender meat and crunchy vegetables in a rich, umami-packed sauce. Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this beef and broccoli stir fry will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Better Than Takeout: Fresh ingredients and a homemade sauce make this dish even more flavorful than your favorite restaurant version.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins while avoiding unnecessary additives.
• Customizable: Swap out vegetables or adjust the spice level to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Stir Fry:

• 1 lb beef (flank steak or sirloin), thinly sliced
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Sauce:

• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

How to Make Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, it’s important to have everything ready. Slice the beef thinly against the grain—this helps it stay tender. Wash and chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Mince the garlic, grate the ginger, and mix the sauce ingredients in a small bowl.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and just cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Stir Fry the Broccoli

In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Toss in the broccoli and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, until it turns bright green and slightly tender. If you like your broccoli softer, add a splash of water and cover the pan for a minute to steam it slightly.

Step 4: Add the Aromatics

Push the broccoli to the sides of the pan and add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the center. Stir them around for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked beef to the pan, then pour in the prepared sauce. Stir everything together, making sure the beef and broccoli are well coated. Let the sauce thicken for about 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the pan from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Helpful Tips

• Slice Beef Thinly: The key to tender beef is slicing it against the grain into thin strips.
• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: It should be tender-crisp, not mushy. Stir-frying quickly at high heat helps maintain its texture.
• Adjust the Sauce: If you like a thicker sauce, add a little more cornstarch mixed with water. For a thinner sauce, add a bit more soy sauce or water.
• Make it Spicier: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha for more heat.
• Use Fresh Ginger: It makes a huge difference in flavor compared to powdered ginger.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stir-Fry
• Cuisine: Asian-inspired
• Diet: Dairy-Free

Notes

• Best Beef for Stir Fry: Flank steak and sirloin are the best choices because they cook quickly and remain tender. If using a tougher cut, consider marinating for at least 30 minutes.
• Cutting the Beef: Always slice the beef against the grain to ensure it stays tender and not chewy.
• Blanching the Broccoli: If you prefer softer broccoli, blanch it in boiling water for 30 seconds before stir-frying. This keeps it bright green while making it more tender.
• Make-Ahead Tip: The sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using.
• Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. You can also serve it with stir-fried noodles for a different take.
• Sauce Thickness: If your sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon of water to loosen it up. If too thin, mix a little more cornstarch with water and stir it in while cooking.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. Ensure your cornstarch is gluten-free if necessary.
• Extra Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of oyster sauce or hoisin sauce for a slightly richer depth of flavor.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave for a quick meal.

Freezing:

This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Store in a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Meal Prep Tip:

Make a double batch and store portions in meal-prep containers with rice for an easy grab-and-go lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of beef?

Yes! Flank steak, sirloin, or even ribeye work great for this stir fry. Just make sure to slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture.

What can I substitute for soy sauce?

If you need a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos. These provide a similar umami flavor.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms all make great additions to this stir fry.

How do I keep the beef tender?

Marinating the beef for 15 minutes in a bit of soy sauce and cornstarch helps lock in moisture and keeps it tender while cooking.

Is this recipe spicy?

The red pepper flakes add a mild heat, but you can adjust the spice level by adding more or leaving them out entirely

Related Recipes

If you enjoyed this beef and broccoli stir fry, you’ll love these other quick and delicious meals:

• Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl
• Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry
• Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
• Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Conclusion

Making your own beef and broccoli stir fry at home is easier than you think, and the results are incredibly satisfying. With simple ingredients, a rich and flavorful sauce, and the perfect combination of tender beef and crisp broccoli, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep favorite, this stir fry has you covered.

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