Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick and tasty dish that brings together tender strips of beef and crisp broccoli florets, all coated in a flavorful sauce made from…
By Ava
•
•
Reading time: 6 min
Tip: save now, make later.
Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick and tasty dish that brings together tender strips of beef and crisp broccoli florets, all coated in a flavorful sauce made from soy, garlic, and a touch of ginger. The contrast between the juicy beef and crunchy vegetables makes every bite satisfying and fresh.
I love making this stir fry on busy weeknights because it comes together so fast and fills the kitchen with an inviting aroma. One tip I always follow is to cook the beef separately and then toss it back in with the broccoli and sauce at the end—that way nothing gets overcooked and everything stays just right.
My favorite way to enjoy this meal is over a bed of warm steamed rice, which soaks up the sauce perfectly. It’s a dish that everyone seems to like, and I find it great for sharing with family or friends, especially when you want something comforting without a lot of fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Flank steak is great for its tenderness and flavor when sliced thinly against the grain. If you can’t find flank, sirloin or skirt steak work well too. For a leaner option, try thinly sliced chicken or tofu.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets give a nice crunch and color. You can substitute with broccolini, green beans, or even snap peas for a different veggie twist.
Sauce Ingredients: Soy sauce and oyster sauce create a rich, savory flavor. For a vegetarian version, swap oyster sauce for mushroom stir-fry sauce or hoisin sauce. Brown sugar adds a hint of sweetness—honey or maple syrup would work if you prefer.
How Do I Get Tender Beef and Crisp Broccoli Every Time?
The secret is cooking the beef and broccoli separately. Here’s how I do it:
- Marinate the beef to tenderize it before cooking.
- Stir-fry broccoli first until bright green and just crisp-tender, then remove it from the pan.
- Cook the beef next, allowing it to get a quick sear without overcrowding the pan.
- Return broccoli and sauce to the pan at the end, then toss everything together just long enough to coat and heat through.
This keeps the beef juicy and broccoli perfectly crisp instead of mushy. Also, don’t rush your sauce—make sure to mix cornstarch well so it thickens nicely without lumps.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large wok or skillet – great for quick, even cooking and tossing the beef and broccoli.
- Sharp chef’s knife – helps slice the beef thin and cut broccoli into uniform florets.
- Cutting board – sturdy surface to prep your ingredients safely and easily.
- Mixing bowls – perfect for marinating beef and whisking sauce without mess.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – lets you stir-fry without scratching your pan.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap beef for thinly sliced chicken breast or tofu to change up the protein.
- Add sliced bell peppers or snow peas for extra crunch and color.
- Include a dash of chili flakes or fresh sliced chili for a bit of heat.
- Stir in toasted cashews or peanuts at the end for added texture and nuttiness.
How to Make Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced (divided)
- 1 red chili, thinly sliced (optional for heat)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Cooked white rice, for serving
For the Marinade:
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, making it a quick meal perfect for busy days.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Beef:
In a medium bowl, mix the thinly sliced beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir well to coat the beef evenly and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to tenderize and absorb flavors.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, beef broth (or water), and cornstarch until smooth. Set this sauce mixture aside for later.
3. Cook the Broccoli:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they turn bright green and are crisp-tender. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set it aside.
4. Cook Garlic, Ginger and Beef:
Add another 1-2 tablespoons of oil to the skillet. Sauté the minced garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the marinated beef in a single layer. Let it cook without stirring for 1-2 minutes to get a nice sear, then stir-fry for another 2 minutes until mostly cooked.
5. Combine and Finish the Dish:
Return the cooked broccoli to the skillet with the beef. Pour the prepared sauce over everything and toss well to coat. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and the dish is heated through. Stir in half of the sliced green onions and red chili if you’re using it.
6. Serve:
Serve the beef and broccoli stir fry hot over steamed white rice. Garnish with the remaining green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Enjoy your delicious homemade beef and broccoli stir fry!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Stir Fry?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just thaw it completely and pat dry to remove excess water before cooking. This helps prevent the stir fry from becoming soggy.
What Can I Substitute for Oyster Sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce, try using hoisin sauce or mushroom stir-fry sauce for a similar savory flavor. For a vegetarian option, a mix of soy sauce and a touch of mushroom broth works well too.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Stir Fry Ahead of Time?
Yes! Cook the beef and broccoli separately and keep them refrigerated. When ready to serve, quickly reheat and toss with the sauce on the stove for best freshness and texture.