Chinese Beef and Broccoli (One Pan Take-Out)

Introduction

Craving takeout but want to make something fresh, fast, and flavorful at home? This Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe delivers tender slices of beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and a savory, slightly sweet sauce—all in just one pan. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s healthier and more budget-friendly than ordering takeout!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan convenience: Minimal cleanup for an easy weeknight dinner.
• Quick cooking time: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Better than takeout: Fresh, flavorful, and customizable to your preferences.
• Healthier option: No excessive sodium or additives found in restaurant versions.

Ingredients

For the beef and marinade:

• 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp baking soda (optional, for extra tenderness)

For the stir-fry:

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup water

For the sauce:

• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water to form a slurry)
• 1 tsp sesame oil

Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef

In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and baking soda. Toss well to coat and let marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

2. Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, black pepper, and cornstarch slurry. Set aside.

3. Cook the Broccoli

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli and stir-fry for 2 minutes. Pour in the water, cover, and steam for 2 more minutes until the broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender. Remove from the pan and set aside.

4. Cook the Beef

In the same pan, heat another tablespoon of oil over high heat. Add the marinated beef in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through. Add the garlic and ginger, stirring for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Combine and Finish

Return the broccoli to the pan, then pour in the sauce. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Let simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens. Drizzle with sesame oil and give it one final toss before serving.

6. Serve

Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein swap: Use chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead of beef.
• Gluten-free: Substitute tamari for soy sauce and ensure the oyster and hoisin sauces are gluten-free.
• Low-carb: Serve with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
• Extra vegetables: Add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for more color and nutrition.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make the beef extra tender?

Using flank steak and slicing it against the grain helps keep it tender. Marinating with cornstarch, soy sauce, and baking soda also improves tenderness.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! Thaw it first and pat dry before stir-frying to prevent excess water from making the dish soggy.

Is this dish spicy?

No, but you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha for heat.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the beef and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately and cook fresh for best results.

What’s the best beef cut for this dish?

Flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin work best as they are tender and cook quickly.

Can I skip the oyster sauce?

You can replace it with extra soy sauce and a bit of Worcestershire sauce for a similar umami depth.

What can I serve with beef and broccoli?

Steamed white rice, brown rice, fried rice, or noodles pair well with this dish.

Can I use a different type of oil?

Yes! Avocado oil or peanut oil are good alternatives for high-heat cooking.

Why does my sauce turn out too thin?

Make sure to use the cornstarch slurry and let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes to thicken properly.

Can I double the sauce?

Absolutely! Just double all sauce ingredients and adjust thickness with additional cornstarch slurry if needed.

Conclusion

This Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe is a fantastic way to bring the flavors of your favorite takeout meal into your own kitchen. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners. Try it out and enjoy a homemade, healthier version of a beloved classic!

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