Go Back
–+ servings

Easy Beef & Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe

This easy beef and broccoli stir-fry is a one-pan dish that's both quick and satisfying, perfect for busy weeknights.
Featuring tender beef and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce, it's ready in just 30 minutes and pairs perfectly with steamed rice for a complete meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Chinese-American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

For the Stir-Fry Sauce:

  • ½ cup hot water
  • 6 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1½ tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 teaspoons minced or grated garlic about 3 cloves
  • 1 teaspoon peeled and grated fresh ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Beef and Broccoli:

  • 2 tablespoons extra-light olive oil or vegetable oil divided
  • 6 cups broccoli florets from about 1 large head of broccoli
  • 1 pound flank steak thinly sliced into bite-sized strips (see Tips below)
  • Cooked white rice for serving (jasmine rice recommended)
  • Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Make the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the hot water, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, cornstarch, garlic, ginger, and black pepper. Whisk together until the sugar fully dissolves. Set aside.
  • Cook the Broccoli: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the broccoli and cook it partially covered, stirring occasionally, for 4 to 5 minutes, or until it becomes bright green and tender-crisp. Transfer the broccoli to a plate.
  • Cook the Beef: Increase the heat to high and add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add the beef strips in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they are just browned.
  • Combine Everything: Lower the heat to medium and pour the sauce into the skillet with the beef. Stir well and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Return the broccoli to the skillet and mix everything until evenly coated. If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of water to reach your desired consistency.
  • Serve: Serve the stir-fry hot over a bed of steamed rice, and sprinkle with sesame seeds for garnish.

Notes

  • For Easier Slicing: Freeze the steak for 30 minutes prior to slicing for cleaner and thinner cuts.
  • Adjust Broccoli Texture: If you like softer broccoli, add 2 tablespoons of water while cooking it in step 2 and briefly steam it under the lid.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: This dish reheats well, making it ideal for preparing ahead for lunches or dinners.
  • Feel free to add additional vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra variety.
  • Substitute chicken, shrimp, or tofu for the beef for a customizable protein option.
  • Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container.
Keyword beef and broccoli recipe, easy recipes, easy stir-fry recipe, homemade takeout recipe, quick dinner idea, simple beef stir-fry
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!