Chinese Beef and Broccoli (One-Pan Take-Out)

Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a beloved stir-fry dish featuring tender beef slices and crisp broccoli florets tossed in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. This one-pan recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with just one pan.
• Healthier Than Takeout – Uses fresh ingredients with no added MSG.
• Rich, Savory Flavor – The sauce balances soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of sweetness.
• Minimal Cleanup – A single pan means less mess in the kitchen.

Ingredients

For the beef and marinade:

• 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the sauce:

• ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• ¼ cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon grated ginger

For the stir-fry:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• ¼ cup water
• ½ teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
• Sliced green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef

In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes while preparing the sauce.

2. Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients: soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, oyster sauce, cornstarch, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Set aside.

3. Cook the Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.

4. Cook the Broccoli

Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan. Toss in the broccoli and stir-fry for about 2 minutes. Pour in ¼ cup of water, cover, and steam for another 2 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still crisp.

5. Combine Everything

Return the beef to the pan and pour in the prepared sauce. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the beef and broccoli evenly.

6. Serve

Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Variations

• Make it Spicy – Add red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the sauce.
• Use Different Protein – Substitute chicken, shrimp, or tofu for the beef.
• Low-Carb Option – Serve over cauliflower rice or skip the sugar.
• Extra Vegetables – Include bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a pan over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make the beef extra tender?

Marinating the beef with cornstarch and soy sauce (a technique called “velveting”) helps keep it tender. Also, slicing it thinly against the grain makes a big difference.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes! Besides flank steak, you can use sirloin, ribeye, or skirt steak for this recipe.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and make sure your oyster sauce is gluten-free.

What can I serve with beef and broccoli?

It pairs well with steamed white rice, brown rice, fried rice, or lo mein noodles.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the sauce and marinate the beef in advance. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

What oil is best for stir-frying?

Use vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil since they have a high smoke point.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or beef broth while stirring.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to cook the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

What if I don’t have oyster sauce?

You can substitute it with hoisin sauce or an extra tablespoon of soy sauce for a slightly different flavor.

How do I keep the broccoli bright green?

Blanching the broccoli for 30 seconds in boiling water before stir-frying can help it retain its vibrant color.

Conclusion

Chinese Beef and Broccoli is an easy, flavorful, and healthier alternative to takeout. With tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a rich sauce, this one-pan recipe is a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. Give it a try, and enjoy restaurant-quality flavor at home!

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