There’s nothing quite like the classic pairing of tender beef and crisp broccoli in a savory, flavorful sauce. The rich aroma of garlic and ginger sizzling together, combined with the vibrant green of freshly cooked broccoli, makes this dish a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Perfect for weeknights, it’s a quick and wholesome option that comes together in just 30 minutes.
The first time I tried making this recipe at home, I was amazed at how easy it was to recreate the restaurant-quality flavors I love. Now it’s a staple in my weekly meal plan, loved by both kids and adults. Ready to make your own? Let’s dive in!
Why You'll Love This Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Get ready to embrace your new go-to dinner recipe. This Beef and Broccoli dish is quick, satisfying, and guaranteed to impress.
First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe requires no special techniques, making it accessible to everyone. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder that simplifies cleanup.
The flavors are unforgettable. Tender slices of beef are seared to perfection and coated in a luscious sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. The broccoli adds a fresh crunch, perfectly balancing the richness of the beef.
It’s also nutrient-packed and wholesome. Broccoli is a fantastic source of vitamins, and the lean beef provides plenty of protein, making this a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Lastly, this recipe is versatile and budget-friendly. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit what you have on hand, ensuring it remains an economical choice for your weekly dinners.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, fresh ingredients. Each one plays a key role in delivering the bold, authentic flavors we love.
Beef: Use thinly sliced sirloin, flank steak, or ribeye for the best results. Cutting the meat against the grain ensures tender, melt-in-your-mouth slices. If you want an even more budget-friendly option, beef chuck works well too when properly sliced.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are ideal, but frozen broccoli can be a great alternative when you’re short on time. Be sure to cook the frozen florets just until tender to avoid mushiness.
Soy Sauce: The backbone of the sauce, soy sauce adds a deep umami flavor. Use a low-sodium variety to keep the dish perfectly seasoned without being overly salty.
Garlic and Ginger: These two aromatics are essential. Fresh garlic and ginger create a fragrant base for the sauce that elevates the overall taste. Mince them finely for the best texture.
Cornstarch: This pantry staple thickens the sauce to coat the beef and broccoli beautifully. It also helps tenderize the beef when used in the marinade.
You’ll also need a large skillet or wok to ensure everything cooks evenly and quickly. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go will make the process even smoother.
How To Make This Beef and Broccoli Recipe

Making this Beef and Broccoli dish is simpler than you might think, and the results are well worth the effort.
Start by marinating the beef. In a bowl, combine thinly sliced beef with soy sauce, a touch of cornstarch, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Let it sit for about 15 minutes while you prep the rest of the ingredients.
Next, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, a bit of cornstarch, sugar, and water. This combination creates a smooth, glossy sauce that clings to every bite.
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Once it’s shimmering, sear the beef in batches. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure each slice gets a beautiful golden crust. Set the cooked beef aside.
In the same skillet, add more oil and toss in your broccoli florets. Stir-fry them for about 2-3 minutes until they’re bright green and slightly tender. If you prefer softer broccoli, add a splash of water and cover the pan to steam them for an additional minute.
Return the beef to the skillet and pour in the sauce. Stir everything together, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the beef and broccoli evenly. This step should only take 2-3 minutes.
Serve the Beef and Broccoli hot over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds or green onions for extra flair. The total cooking time is under 30 minutes, making this recipe perfect for busy evenings.
Storage Options
This Beef and Broccoli dish stores wonderfully, so you can enjoy leftovers for days to come.
To store, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you’d like to freeze it, place the cooled beef and broccoli in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
When reheating, warm the dish gently on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of water or soy sauce to refresh the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, making it easy to customize to your preferences or dietary needs.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil to the sauce. It’ll bring a delightful heat that complements the savory flavors.
If you’re out of broccoli, substitute it with other vegetables like snap peas, bell peppers, or zucchini. The crisp-tender texture of these veggies works beautifully in this dish.
Want a plant-based version? Swap the beef for firm tofu or mushrooms. Be sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture before cooking for the best texture.
To make it gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. The flavor remains just as delicious without compromising on dietary restrictions.
Experiment with adding nuts or seeds like cashews or sesame seeds for added crunch. They provide a nice contrast to the tender beef and silky sauce.
This Beef and Broccoli recipe is all about celebrating bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Whether you stick to the classic preparation or make it your own, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. Enjoy!
PrintBeef And Broccoli Recipe
This easy beef and broccoli recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious meal. Juicy beef strips and fresh broccoli are cooked in a rich, savory sauce made with simple ingredients, creating a flavorful dish everyone will love. Great for weeknights or meal prep!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-fry
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ¼ cup water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Optional: sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, and cornstarch with water to create the sauce. Set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef and stir-fry until browned and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add garlic and ginger, stir-frying for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add broccoli florets to the skillet, stir-frying for 2-3 minutes. Add a splash of water, cover, and steam for an additional 2 minutes until broccoli is tender but crisp.
- Return the beef to the skillet and pour in the sauce. Stir everything together, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and broccoli.
- Serve immediately with rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
Notes
- For best results, slice the beef thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
- Feel free to substitute beef sirloin with flank steak or another lean cut of beef.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar for a sweeter or less sweet sauce.
- Pair with steamed white rice or fried rice for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
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