There’s something timeless about a plate of Chinese beef and broccoli. The aroma of sizzling garlic, tender beef, and crisp broccoli drenched in a glossy brown sauce takes me right back to my grandmother’s kitchen. She believed that cooking wasn’t about following recipes; it was about feeling the food. That philosophy stayed with me, and every time I stir-fry, I think of her gentle hands guiding the pan. When I moved into my own home, this dish became my go-to comfort meal. It’s quick, deeply flavorful, and surprisingly simple; perfect for busy weeknights.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This beef and broccoli stir-fry isn’t just another takeout imitation, it’s better. The sauce hits that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and slightly smoky, coating every piece of beef and broccoli with irresistible shine. You’ll love how easy it is to make; from prep to plate in under 25 minutes. The flavors are rich, yet the ingredients are simple: no complicated sauces, just pantry staples that come together beautifully.
The best part? It’s healthier and fresher than anything from a restaurant. You control the oil, salt, and sweetness. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; serve it over rice, noodles, or even quinoa.
For another pantry-friendly meal, check out my Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes; they make the perfect cozy side dish to balance bold Asian flavors.;
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Chinese Beef and Broccoli
This Chinese Beef and Broccoli stir-fry is a quick, healthy takeout classic made at home. Tender beef slices, crisp broccoli, and a rich, savory sauce come together in under 25 minutes for a satisfying dinner everyone will love.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
3 cups broccoli florets
2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
1 tbsp cornstarch
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
1/2 cup beef broth or water
Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
Instructions
1. In a small bowl, toss the sliced beef with cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok. Add broccoli and a splash of water. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until bright green. Remove and set aside.
3. Add remaining oil and stir-fry beef in batches until browned on both sides.
4. Whisk soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and broth. Pour into wok and simmer for 1–2 minutes.
5. Return broccoli to the wok, toss to coat, and cook for another minute until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve immediately over rice or noodles and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Notes
Slice the beef against the grain for tenderness.
Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness.
You can replace beef with chicken or tofu for variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stir-fry
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Chinese-style beef and broccoli comes from balancing a few core flavors; savory soy sauce, umami-rich oyster sauce, and the warmth of garlic and ginger.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, sliced thin against the grain
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
Optional garnishes: toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
This recipe uses ingredients you probably already have, making it a great go-to dinner. For another comforting family favorite, try my Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole; hearty, wholesome, and made with the same spirit of care.
How to Make It
Making beef with broccoli at home is easy and satisfying. You’ll need just one pan and about 25 minutes.
- Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, toss sliced beef with cornstarch and a tablespoon of soy sauce. Let it rest while you prep the other ingredients.
- Cook the Broccoli: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet. Add broccoli and a splash of water. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Remove from the pan.
- Sear the Beef: Add remaining oil, then cook beef in batches until browned; about 2 minutes per side.
- Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and broth.
- Combine and Simmer: Pour the sauce into the wok, add the broccoli back, and toss everything together for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the beef.
Serve it hot with rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter twist. If you love bold stir-fry sauces, my Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions offers a spicier, heartier alternative.
Tips and Variations
To make your beef and broccoli stir-fry even more adaptable, here are some quick tips and ideas:
- Protein Swaps: Substitute beef with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a lighter take.
- Add Heat: A touch of chili flakes or sriracha can bring the spice level up.
- Boost Texture: Add carrots, snow peas, or mushrooms for extra crunch.
- Meal Prep: Double the sauce and refrigerate it; it keeps for up to a week.
Don’t overcook the beef; quick, high heat is the secret to tenderness. You can also tenderize tougher cuts with a teaspoon of baking soda mixed into the marinade for 10 minutes before cooking.
For a cozy fall dinner idea, try my Crockpot Chicken Alfredo Tortellini next; creamy, hearty, and absolutely soul-warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cut of beef is best for Chinese beef and broccoli?
Flank steak or sirloin works best because they’re tender and cook quickly. Always slice against the grain for the best texture.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Just thaw and pat dry before stir-frying to avoid extra moisture.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Add an extra teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a bit of water to the sauce while simmering.
What can I serve with beef and broccoli?
It pairs perfectly with jasmine rice or even Glazed Carrots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Homemade Chinese beef and broccoli proves that delicious takeout-style meals don’t have to be complicated. With simple ingredients, one pan, and less than half an hour, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy dinner that’s fresher, cheaper, and full of love. Like all my recipes, it’s inspired by care and tradition, the kind my Nonna passed down through every meal. When you crave comfort and flavor, this dish delivers every single time.
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