Easy Beef and Broccoli Recipe

A Quick and Flavorful Stir-Fry

Beef and broccoli is a classic stir-fry dish that is both simple and packed with flavor. With tender slices of beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and a rich, savory sauce, this dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re a stir-fry enthusiast or new to cooking Asian-inspired dishes, this easy recipe will guide you through making a delicious homemade version of this takeout favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
• Healthy & Nutritious – A protein-packed dish with fresh vegetables.
• Rich & Savory Sauce – A flavorful combination of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
• Customizable – Easily adapt it to your taste with different veggies or protein.

Ingredients

For the beef and marinade:

• 1 pound flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the stir-fry:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• ½ cup beef broth
• 3 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef

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

2. Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth, oyster sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and the cornstarch slurry. Set aside.

3. Cook the Broccoli

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until it turns bright green and is slightly tender. Remove and set aside.

4. Sear the Beef

Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Add the marinated beef and cook for 2–3 minutes until browned, stirring occasionally.

5. Add Garlic and Ginger

Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

6. Combine Everything

Return the cooked broccoli to the skillet. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir well. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and broccoli evenly.

7. Serve and Enjoy

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

Variations

• Different Protein: Substitute chicken, shrimp, or tofu for the beef.
• Spicier Version: Add red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the sauce.
• Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soy sauce and broth to control salt levels.
• More Veggies: Include bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra crunch.

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.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short intervals, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make the beef more tender?

Thinly slice the beef against the grain and marinate it with cornstarch and soy sauce to enhance tenderness.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, but blanch it first to avoid excess water content in the stir-fry.

What cut of beef works best?

Flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye are ideal choices due to their tenderness and quick cooking time.

Is oyster sauce necessary?

Oyster sauce adds depth, but you can substitute it with hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a little sugar.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Use boneless chicken breast or thighs, slicing them thinly and following the same cooking steps.

What can I serve with this dish?

Steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles pair perfectly with beef and broccoli.

How can I thicken the sauce more?

Add an extra teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water and let the sauce simmer until thickened.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free.

How do I prevent my beef from overcooking?

Cook it over high heat for just 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid dryness.

What oil is best for stir-frying?

Use vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil for high-heat cooking.

Conclusion

This Easy Beef and Broccoli stir-fry is a must-try for anyone who loves quick, flavorful meals. With its tender beef, vibrant broccoli, and savory sauce, it’s a delicious homemade alternative to takeout. Whether you’re meal-prepping, serving dinner to your family, or just craving a comforting dish, this recipe delivers every time. Try it today and enjoy a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home!

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