Beef and broccoli is the takeout classic you can make at home in 30 minutes with tender, velvety beef and crisp broccoli in a glossy, savory garlic-ginger sauce. It is easier than ordering delivery and tastes fresher.
This easy beef and broccoli recipe uses a quick marinade and a simple sauce for restaurant-style results. It is a takeout-style beef and broccoli stir-fry that is perfect for weeknights over steamed rice.
Recipe at a Glance
| Prep Time | 20 minutes (plus 15 minutes marinating) |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings |
| Category | Dinner / Stir-Fry |
Why You’ll Love This Beef and Broccoli
- Tender, velvety beef with a savory-sweet sauce
- Ready in about 30 minutes of active time
- Better than takeout with fresher ingredients
- One skillet and simple pantry staples
- Great served over rice or noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1½ pounds flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain
- For the marinade: 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon baking soda (optional, for extra tender beef)
- For the sauce: ½ cup low-sodium beef broth, ¼ cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 3 tablespoons neutral oil, divided
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced, and 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- Steamed rice and sesame seeds, for serving
How to Make Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
- Toss the sliced beef with the marinade ingredients and let it sit for 15 minutes.
- Whisk all of the sauce ingredients together in a small bowl until smooth.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the broccoli with 2 tablespoons of water, cover, and steam for 2 to 3 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Transfer to a plate.
- Add 1 tablespoon of oil and sear the beef in a single layer for 1 to 2 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to the plate.
- Add the remaining oil, garlic, and ginger and cook for 30 seconds.
- Return the beef and broccoli to the pan, pour in the sauce, and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens and coats everything. Serve over rice with sesame seeds.
Tips for the Best Takeout-Style Beef and Broccoli
- Slice the beef against the grain, as thin as you can, for tender bites.
- Cook the beef in batches so it sears instead of steams.
- Do not overcook the broccoli; it should stay bright and crisp.
- Whisk the sauce again before adding since the cornstarch settles.
- Freeze the steak for 20 minutes to make slicing easier.
Variations to Try: Beef and Broccoli Ideas
- Use sirloin or skirt steak in place of flank.
- Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili garlic sauce.
- Serve over cauliflower rice or noodles.
How to Store It
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave. Freeze for up to 2 months, though the broccoli will soften.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cut of beef is best for beef and broccoli?
Flank steak is the classic choice, sliced thinly against the grain. Sirloin and skirt steak also work well.
How do I keep beef tender in a stir-fry?
Slice against the grain, marinate with cornstarch, and cook quickly over high heat.
Can I make beef and broccoli ahead of time?
You can slice and marinate the beef and whisk the sauce ahead, then cook just before serving.
Why is my stir-fry sauce too thin?
Make sure the cornstarch is fully whisked in and the sauce comes to a simmer so it can thicken.
Easy Beef and Broccoli
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Marinate the beef for 15 minutes.
- Step 2: Whisk the sauce ingredients.
- Step 3: Steam the broccoli with a splash of water until crisp-tender and set aside.
- Step 4: Sear the beef in batches and set aside.
- Tip: Slice against the grain.
- Step 5: Cook the garlic and ginger for 30 seconds.
- Step 6: Return the beef and broccoli, add the sauce, and cook until thickened.
Notes
Whisk the sauce again before adding it.