Craving the bold flavors of your favorite Chinese takeout without the cost or wait? Say hello to Beef and Broccoli, a sizzling, easy-to-make dish that brings restaurant-quality taste right to your kitchen! This Beef and Broccoli recipe combines tender, juicy beef with crisp broccoli florets, all coated in a savory, slightly sweet sauce that’s pure magic. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this dish is not only healthier than takeout but also budget-friendly and ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, Beef and Broccoli will become your go-to for satisfying those Chinese food cravings.
In this post, we’ll break down the simple ingredients, share step-by-step cooking instructions, and offer tips to make this Beef and Broccoli your own. Let’s fire up the skillet and get started!
Why You’ll Love Beef and Broccoli
- Quick and Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
- Healthier Takeout Alternative: Made with fresh ingredients and less oil than restaurant versions.
- Bold Flavors: The savory, umami sauce with a hint of sweetness is irresistible.
- Versatile: Serve over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles to suit any diet.
- Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will love.
Ingredients for Beef and Broccoli
The magic of Beef and Broccoli lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish at home.
Beef and Broccoli
- Beef (1 lb, flank steak, skirt steak, or top sirloin): Thinly sliced against the grain for tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Broccoli Florets (3-4 cups, fresh or frozen): Fresh for vibrant color and crispness, or frozen for convenience.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): For searing the beef and stir-frying the broccoli.
Savory Sauce
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce (1/4 cup): Adds umami depth; use tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Water (1/4 cup): Thins the sauce for the perfect consistency.
- Brown Sugar (2 tbsp): Brings a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
- Apple Cider Vinegar (1 tbsp): Adds a subtle tangy kick.
- Toasted Sesame Oil (1 tsp): Infuses a nutty, authentic flavor.
- Cornstarch (1 tbsp): Thickens the sauce to a glossy finish.
- Ground Ginger (1/2 tsp): Adds warmth and zing.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Enhances the savory aroma.
Serving
- Rice (white, brown, jasmine, or cauliflower rice): Choose based on your dietary preferences.
- Garnishes (optional): Sesame seeds or chopped green onions for extra flair.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Making Beef and Broccoli is a breeze with these straightforward steps. You’ll have a restaurant-worthy dish ready in no time!
1: Prepare the Beef
- Select and Trim: Choose a tender cut like flank steak, skirt steak, or top sirloin. Trim excess fat for a leaner dish.
- Slice Thinly: Place the beef on a cutting board and slice it into thin strips against the grain. This ensures every bite is tender.
- Set Aside: Keep the sliced beef ready for cooking.
2: Prep the Broccoli
- Cut Uniformly: If using fresh broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets for even cooking. Rinse thoroughly.
- Blanch (Optional): For extra crispness, blanch fresh broccoli in boiling water for 1 minute, then plunge into ice water. If using frozen, thaw completely to avoid sogginess.
3: Make the Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil, cornstarch, ground ginger, and minced garlic.
- Mix Well: Ensure the brown sugar dissolves and the cornstarch is fully incorporated for a smooth, glossy sauce.
4: Cook the Beef and Broccoli
- Sear the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips in a single layer and sear undisturbed for 1 minute. Stir and cook for another 1-2 minutes until slightly pink. Remove and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Broccoli: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Toss in the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vibrant green and tender-crisp.
- Combine: Return the beef to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the beef and broccoli, stirring to coat evenly. Cook on low heat for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and bubbles.
5: Serve
Serve your Beef and Broccoli hot over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, jasmine rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
Chef’s Tips for Perfect Beef and Broccoli
- Tender Beef Trick: Freeze the beef for 15 minutes before slicing to make thin cuts easier.
- Crisp Broccoli: Don’t overcook the broccoli; aim for a vibrant green color and slight crunch.
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water; if too thin, simmer for an extra minute.
- Flavor Boost: Add sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or bok choy for extra veggies and variety.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your Beef and Broccoli with these serving ideas to suit any occasion:
- Classic Pairing: Serve over jasmine rice for a fragrant, authentic touch.
- Low-Carb Option: Pair with cauliflower rice for a lighter meal.
- Side Dishes: Add a side of egg rolls, fried rice, or a cucumber salad for a complete Chinese-inspired feast.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with sesame seeds, green onions, or a drizzle of sriracha for extra zing.
- Presentation: Serve in a shallow bowl to showcase the glossy sauce and vibrant broccoli.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Beef and Broccoli tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together! Here’s how to store and reheat:
- Store: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between
- Freeze: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Tip: Store the rice separately to prevent sogginess.
Why Beef and Broccoli Is a Keeper
There’s something truly special about Beef and Broccoli. Maybe it’s the way the tender beef melts in your mouth or how the crisp broccoli soaks up that glossy, savory sauce. From the first sizzle of beef in the skillet to the aroma of garlic and ginger filling the kitchen, this dish is a sensory delight. It’s not just about the food—it’s about the joy of creating something delicious with simple ingredients. The first time I served this to my family, their smiles said it all: no takeout could ever compare.
This recipe is a game-changer because it’s quick, affordable, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, Beef and Broccoli delivers bold flavors without the fuss. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to restaurant versions, letting you control the ingredients and portions.
More summer dinner recipe ideas you’ll love
- Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken
- 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken
- French Dip Sliders
- Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil
- Meatball Sub
Conclusion
Beef and Broccoli is more than just a meal—it’s a ticket to restaurant-quality Chinese food right in your own kitchen. With its tender beef, crisp broccoli, and addictive savory sauce, this dish is sure to win over your family and friends. Whether you pair it with rice, noodles, or keep it low-carb, it’s a versatile recipe that fits any lifestyle. Give it a try, tweak it to your taste, and let us know how it turns out in the comments below!
Happy cooking!
Quick Beef And Broccoli: Chinese Takeout Classic
Ingredients
- 1 pound top sirloin steak
- ▢2 tablespoons olive oil divided
- ▢3 cups broccoli florets
- ▢Sauce ingredients:
- ▢1/2 cup water
- ▢1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- ▢1/2 cup soy sauce
- ▢1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- ▢3 tablespoons cornstarch
- ▢1 teaspoon garlic minced
- ▢1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- ▢1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions
- Prepare everything in advance since the actual cooking is very quick. For the steak, trim any fat and slice it thinly across the grain into bite-sized pieces. Combine the sauce ingredients in a bowl and whisk thoroughly.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over high heat until shimmering.
- Add the broccoli and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently until it’s tender-crisp, then transfer to a plate.
- Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Spread the beef in a single layer in the pan and let it sear without touching for a minute. Stir and flip with tongs, cooking for another minute. It’s best if it’s slightly rare at this stage to prevent it from becoming tough.
- Return the broccoli to the pan and pour in the sauce. Stir and toss until everything is well-coated and the sauce thickens, about 1-3 minutes. Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Notes
Did you Like This Recipe? Please Rate and Comment Below!