Beef and broccoli is a classic takeout favorite that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. This simple yet flavorful dish features tender beef strips stir-fried with vibrant broccoli florets in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a healthier alternative to takeout, this easy beef and broccoli recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthier Than Takeout: Homemade means you control the ingredients, reducing excess sodium and additives.
- Flavor-Packed: A perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors thanks to soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with different proteins or vegetables based on what you have on hand.
- Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples, keeping it simple and affordable.
Ingredients
- Beef (flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye)
- Broccoli florets
- Soy sauce
- Oyster sauce
- Brown sugar
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Cornstarch
- Water
- Sesame oil
- Vegetable oil
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Green onions (optional)
- White rice or noodles (for serving)
Directions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Slice the beef thinly against the grain for tenderness. Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Mince the garlic and ginger.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and a splash of water. Stir well to combine.
- Tenderize the Beef: Toss the sliced beef with cornstarch to help it stay tender and create a slightly thickened sauce when cooked.
- Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a pot of water to a boil and briefly blanch the broccoli for about 30 seconds. Drain and set aside.
- Sear the Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef in a single layer and sear until browned, about 2 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Aromatics: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the garlic and ginger until fragrant.
- Combine Everything: Return the beef to the pan, add the sauce, and stir to coat. Let it simmer for a minute before adding the broccoli.
- Final Touches: Drizzle with sesame oil and stir to combine. If desired, sprinkle with red pepper flakes and chopped green onions for extra flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot over steamed white rice or noodles.
Variations
- Protein Swap: Try using chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead of beef for a different take.
- Vegetable Additions: Add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra crunch and color.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Serve over cauliflower rice or enjoy as a standalone stir-fry.
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to maintain moisture. Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
How do I make the beef more tender?
Slicing the beef thinly against the grain and coating it with cornstarch helps keep it tender. Additionally, marinating it for 15-20 minutes in soy sauce can enhance tenderness.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but thaw it first and pat dry to avoid excess moisture in the stir-fry.
What type of beef is best for beef and broccoli?
Flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye are great options as they cook quickly and stay tender when sliced properly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Cook just before serving for best results.
What can I use instead of oyster sauce?
Hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce with a little sugar can work as a substitute.
Is this dish keto-friendly?
To make it keto-friendly, use a low-carb sweetener instead of brown sugar and serve with cauliflower rice.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, but for best results, sear the beef first. Cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours.
How do I prevent my broccoli from getting soggy?
Blanching the broccoli briefly and adding it at the end of cooking helps maintain its crispness.
Can I use chicken broth instead of water?
Yes, using chicken or beef broth adds extra depth of flavor.
What can I serve with beef and broccoli?
Steamed rice, fried rice, noodles, or even quinoa make great side options.
Conclusion
Easy beef and broccoli is a delicious, quick, and healthier alternative to takeout that you can whip up in under 30 minutes. Packed with flavor, tender beef, and crisp broccoli, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners. Give it a try, and enjoy a homemade meal that’s just as good—if not better—than your favorite restaurant version!
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Easy Beef and Broccoli
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A quick and easy beef and broccoli stir-fry with tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce. A healthier alternative to takeout, ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef (flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye), thinly sliced against the grain
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
- White rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Slice the beef thinly against the grain. Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Mince the garlic and ginger.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and water. Stir well to combine.
- Tenderize the Beef: Toss the sliced beef with cornstarch to help it stay tender and create a slightly thickened sauce when cooked.
- Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a pot of water to a boil and briefly blanch the broccoli for about 30 seconds. Drain and set aside.
- Sear the Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef in a single layer and sear until browned, about 2 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Aromatics: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the garlic and ginger until fragrant.
- Combine Everything: Return the beef to the pan, add the sauce, and stir to coat. Let it simmer for a minute before adding the broccoli.
- Final Touches: Drizzle with sesame oil and stir to combine. If desired, sprinkle with red pepper flakes and chopped green onions for extra flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot over steamed white rice or noodles.
Notes
- Protein Swap: Use chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead of beef.
- Vegetable Additions: Add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Serve over cauliflower rice or enjoy as a standalone stir-fry.
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: chinese-american
Keywords: beef and broccoli, easy stir-fry, homemade takeout, quick dinner, healthy beef recipe
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