If you’re craving savory, tender beef and crisp-tender broccoli in a rich, garlicky sauce, this Quick and Easy Beef and Broccoli recipe is just what you need! This homemade version of the popular takeout classic comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Serve it over steamed rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a delicious and satisfying meal. Letβs get cooking! π½οΈβ¨
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
βοΈ Fast & Easy: Ready in 25 minutes or less!
βοΈ Better than Takeout: Fresh ingredients and no unnecessary additives.
βοΈ Tender & Flavorful Beef: Marinated for maximum juiciness!
βοΈ Rich & Savory Sauce: A perfect balance of garlic, soy, ginger, and sweetness.
βοΈ Customizable: Swap the protein or veggies for variety!
What Does It Taste Like? π€€
This dish features tender, juicy beef coated in a glossy, umami-packed sauce. The broccoli stays crisp-tender, adding a fresh contrast to the rich flavors. The sauce is savory, slightly sweet, and garlicky, with a subtle kick from ginger. Itβs the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and deeply satisfying!
Ingredients Youβll Need
For the Beef:
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced π₯© (against the grain for tenderness)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce π₯’ (for flavor and tenderness)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch π½ (helps lock in moisture)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil πΏ (for richness, optional)
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce π₯’ (or coconut aminos for a soy-free option)
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar or honey π― (for a touch of sweetness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced π§ (for bold flavor)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated π« (adds warmth and spice)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce π¦ͺ (optional, but adds depth)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water π₯£ (helps create a silky sauce)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water π½ (thickens the sauce)
For the Stir-Fry:
- 3 cups broccoli florets π₯¦ (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil π’οΈ (for stir-frying)
- Sesame seeds or green onions for garnish π± (optional)
Tools Youβll Need
βοΈ Sharp knife
βοΈ Large skillet or wok
βοΈ Mixing bowls
βοΈ Whisk
βοΈ Tongs or spatula
How to Make Quick and Easy Beef and Broccoli
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
- In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil.
- Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the sauce and broccoli.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar (or honey), garlic, ginger, oyster sauce, and beef broth.
- In a separate small dish, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water to create a slurry.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until bright green but still crisp.
- Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Beef
- Add another 1 tablespoon oil to the pan.
- Add the marinated beef, spreading it out in an even layer.
- Sear for 1-2 minutes per side until browned and just cooked through.
- Return the broccoli to the pan.
Step 5: Add the Sauce & Finish
- Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and broccoli.
- Stir well, then add the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice. Enjoy this homemade takeout favorite! ππ₯’
Tips for the Best Beef and Broccoli
βοΈ Slice Beef Thinly: Cutting against the grain ensures tenderness.
βοΈ Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Even a short marination makes a huge difference!
βοΈ Use a Hot Pan: A wok or skillet over high heat helps sear the beef quickly.
βοΈ Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Keeping it crisp-tender preserves color and texture.
βοΈ Adjust Sweetness & Saltiness: Taste the sauce and tweak to your preference.
Variations & Substitutions
π₯© Swap the Protein: Use chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead of beef.
π₯¦ Try Different Veggies: Add carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas for variety.
π± Make it Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or zoodles instead of regular rice.
πΆοΈ Spicy Version: Add 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or Sriracha for heat.
What to Serve with Beef and Broccoli
π Steamed White or Brown Rice β The classic pairing!
π Garlic Noodles β For an even more indulgent meal.
π₯ Egg Rolls or Dumplings β A great appetizer to complete your meal.
π₯’ Miso Soup or Hot & Sour Soup β A warm, comforting side dish.
How to Store & Reheat
βοΈ Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
π₯ Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water, or microwave in 30-second intervals.
π§ Freeze: Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Just steam it lightly before adding it to the stir-fry to prevent excess water.
2. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and ensure the oyster sauce is gluten-free.
3. Whatβs the best cut of beef for stir-fry?
Flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye are best because they stay tender when cooked quickly.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the beef and mix the sauce a day in advance. Cook everything fresh for the best texture.
5. How do I make it extra saucy?
Simply double the sauce ingredients if you like it extra saucy!
Wrapping It Up π₯©π₯¦π
This Quick and Easy Beef and Broccoli is a fast, flavorful, and healthier alternative to takeout. Tender beef, fresh broccoli, and a rich, savory sauce come together in just 25 minutes for a dish thatβs perfectly balanced and absolutely delicious.
If you try this recipe, Iβd love to hear how it turned out! Leave a review, snap a photo, and share it on Pinterest or InstagramβI canβt wait to see your homemade beef and broccoli! ππ₯’
More Quick & Easy Dinner Recipes:
π₯‘ Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry
π Garlic Sesame Noodles with Shrimp
π₯’ Honey Garlic Chicken with Vegetables
Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite! πβ¨