Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry: 1 Quick and Flavorful Classic

A quick and easy beef and broccoli stir fry recipe packed with flavor. Perfect for a weeknight meal, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes!

What is Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry?

Beef and broccoli stir fry is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine, featuring tender beef slices and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. It’s known for its rich umami flavor, complemented by soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. This meal is both nutritious and delicious, making it a favorite among stir-fry lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
2. Healthy & Nutritious – High in protein and fiber.
3. Customizable – Adjust seasonings and ingredients to taste.
4. Great for Meal Prep – Stores well for leftovers.
5. Family-Friendly – A crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Beef:

• 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Stir Fry:

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch ginger, minced
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)

How to Make Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

1. Prepare the Beef

• Slice the beef thinly against the grain.
• In a bowl, mix beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and black pepper. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.

2. Cook the Broccoli

• Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok over medium heat.
• Add broccoli and bell pepper; stir-fry for 3 minutes.
• Remove and set aside.

3. Cook the Beef

• Add 1 tbsp oil to the wok.
• Stir-fry the beef until browned. Remove and set aside.

4. Make the Sauce

• In the same wok, sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds.
• Add beef broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, and sesame oil.
• Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened.

5. Combine Everything

• Return beef and vegetables to the wok.
• Stir to coat everything in the sauce.
• Cook for 2 more minutes and serve.

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Heat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water.

Variations & Substitutions

• Protein Options: Swap beef for chicken, tofu, or shrimp.
• Vegetable Variations: Add carrots, snow peas, or mushrooms.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Best Pairings for Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

• Steamed jasmine rice
• Garlic noodles
• Egg-fried rice
• Cucumber salad

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is homemade beef and broccoli good for?

It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.

When cooking stir-fry, do you cook the meat or vegetables first?

Cook the meat first, remove it, then stir-fry the vegetables.

What does beef and broccoli contain?

It typically includes beef, broccoli, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and a thickening agent.

What are three important steps to a good stir-fry?

1. High Heat Cooking – Ensures quick cooking and prevents sogginess.
2. Marinate the Meat – Enhances flavor and tenderness.
3. Cook in Batches – Prevents overcrowding and uneven cooking.

Presentation Tips

• Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
• Serve in a deep bowl with chopsticks for an authentic look.
• Add a drizzle of sesame oil for extra flavor.

Suggested Recipes

• Garlic Butter Shrimp Stir Fry
• Teriyaki Chicken and Vegetables
• Spicy Kung Pao Chicken

For more savory recipes you can also check my friend Alicia’s blog here.