Name: Easy Beef and Broccoli: A Delicious Weeknight Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain; 1 head broccoli, cut into florets; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated; Vegetable oil, for cooking

Jump to Recipe

Forget takeout tonight – with just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in under 30 minutes. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen.

I love how the vibrant green broccoli contrasts with the deep, dark sauce, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy. So, why wait? Try this easy beef and broccoli tonight, I know you won’t believe how simple and tasty it is to make this at home!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece:

1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
Tip: Partially freeze the beef for 15-20 minutes to make slicing easier.
1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
Tip: You can also use frozen broccoli florets for convenience; just make sure to thaw and drain them well.
2 tablespoons soy sauce
Tip: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish.

2 tablespoons oyster sauce
Tip: If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can substitute with hoisin sauce for a similar flavor.
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Tip: Cornstarch helps to thicken the sauce, giving it a glossy, restaurant-style finish.
1 tablespoon brown sugar

1 teaspoon sesame oil
Tip: A little sesame oil goes a long way; it adds a lovely nutty aroma and flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
Tip: Freshly minced garlic and ginger provide the best flavor, but you can use pre-minced if you’re short on time.

1/2 cup beef broth
Tip: You can substitute chicken broth or vegetable broth if you don’t have beef broth on hand.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Tip: Vegetable oil has a high smoke point, making it ideal for stir-frying.
Salt and pepper to taste
Tip: Season generously to enhance the flavors of the dish.

Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat
Tip: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little kick.

Universal Tip: Marinate the beef for at least 15 minutes (or up to overnight) for extra tenderness and flavor.

Save

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious beef and broccoli:

Prepare the Beef: In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Mix well to ensure the beef is evenly coated. This marinade will tenderize the beef and add a depth of flavor. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes. The enzymes in the soy sauce help to break down the proteins in the beef, making it more tender.
Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Stir until the brown sugar is dissolved and the sauce is well combined. This sauce is the heart of the dish, so make sure all the ingredients are well incorporated. The combination of soy sauce and oyster sauce creates a savory umami flavor that is characteristic of many Asian dishes.

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 3-5 minutes, until they are bright green and slightly tender-crisp. Remove the broccoli from the skillet and set aside. Stir-frying the broccoli ensures that it retains its crispness and vibrant color.
Sear the Beef: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan). Sear the beef for 2-3 minutes per side, until it is browned and cooked through. Overcrowding the pan will steam the beef instead of searing it, so be patient and work in batches if needed. Searing the beef creates a delicious crust that adds texture and flavor to the dish.
Combine and Simmer: Pour the sauce over the beef in the skillet. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, until it thickens slightly. The cornstarch in the sauce will help it thicken quickly, creating a glossy coating on the beef. The cornstarch molecules swell and trap water, creating a viscous sauce.

Add Broccoli: Add the cooked broccoli back to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the broccoli is heated through and the sauce is evenly distributed.
Season and Serve: Season the beef and broccoli with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a little heat. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.

Save

Serving Ideas

Easy Beef and Broccoli is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and can be presented in several appealing ways. Here are some serving ideas to elevate your meal:

Classic Rice Bowl

Pairing: Serve the beef and broccoli over a bed of fluffy steamed jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the savory sauce beautifully, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Plating: Mound the rice in a bowl, then spoon the beef and broccoli over the top. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions for a pop of color and added flavor. A side of kimchi or pickled ginger can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.

Noodle Delight

Pairing: Toss the beef and broccoli with cooked lo mein noodles or udon noodles. The noodles add a satisfying chewiness and complement the tender beef and crisp broccoli.
Plating: Arrange the noodles in a serving bowl, then top with the beef and broccoli. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the noodles to ensure every bite is flavorful. Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and a drizzle of sesame oil for an extra layer of flavor.

Fresh and Light Salad

Pairing: For a lighter meal, serve the beef and broccoli alongside a crisp Asian-inspired salad. A salad with mixed greens, shredded carrots, cucumbers, and a ginger-sesame dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the beef and broccoli.

Plating: Arrange the salad on a plate, then spoon the beef and broccoli next to it. The vibrant colors of the salad and the beef and broccoli create an appealing presentation. A sprinkle of chopped peanuts or almonds adds a nice crunch to the salad.

Spring Roll Wraps

Pairing: Use the beef and broccoli as a filling for fresh spring rolls. The combination of the savory filling and the refreshing rice paper wrappers makes for a delicious and healthy appetizer or light meal.
Plating: Lay out rice paper wrappers, then fill each one with a spoonful of beef and broccoli, along with some fresh herbs like mint and cilantro. Roll up the wrappers tightly and serve with a peanut dipping sauce.

Elegant Appetizer

Pairing: Serve small portions of the beef and broccoli as an appetizer at a dinner party. The rich flavors and appealing presentation make it a crowd-pleasing starter.
Plating: Arrange the beef and broccoli on small serving plates or in individual spoons. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a small sprig of cilantro. Serve with chopsticks or small forks for easy eating.

By experimenting with these serving ideas, you can transform a simple beef and broccoli dish into a culinary masterpiece that will impress your family and friends.

FAQs for Easy Beef and Broccoli

Here are some frequently asked questions about making easy beef and broccoli, designed to help you achieve the best results:

What is the best cut of beef to use for beef and broccoli?The best cuts of beef for beef and broccoli are those that are tender and can be thinly sliced. Sirloin steak is a popular choice because it’s relatively lean and cooks quickly. Flank steak and skirt steak are also good options, as they have a lot of flavor and become very tender when sliced against the grain. Avoid tougher cuts like chuck or round steak, as they require longer cooking times and may not be as tender in a quick stir-fry. According to the USDA Food Composition Database, sirloin is a good source of protein and iron.
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?Yes, you can definitely use frozen broccoli for this recipe. Frozen broccoli is a convenient option, especially when fresh broccoli is not available. However, it’s important to thaw the frozen broccoli completely and drain it well before adding it to the stir-fry. This will prevent the dish from becoming watery. You may also want to slightly reduce the cooking time, as frozen broccoli tends to cook faster than fresh broccoli.

How can I make beef and broccoli healthier?There are several ways to make beef and broccoli healthier. First, choose a lean cut of beef and trim off any excess fat. Second, use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the sodium content of the dish. Third, increase the amount of broccoli and reduce the amount of beef. Fourth, use a healthy oil like olive oil or avocado oil for stir-frying. Finally, serve the beef and broccoli with brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for added fiber and nutrients.
Can I make beef and broccoli ahead of time?Yes, you can make beef and broccoli ahead of time, but it’s best to store the beef and broccoli separately from the sauce. This will prevent the broccoli from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the beef and broccoli in a skillet or wok, then add the sauce and cook until heated through. Be careful not to overcook the broccoli, as it can become mushy.
How do I store leftover beef and broccoli?Store leftover beef and broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you can use a skillet, wok, or microwave. If using a microwave, cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out. Make sure the beef and broccoli is heated thoroughly before serving. According to the CDC on Safe Cooking Temperatures, it’s important to reheat food to an internal temperature of 165°F to kill any harmful bacteria.

What can I substitute for oyster sauce?If you don’t have oyster sauce on hand, you can substitute it with hoisin sauce, which has a similar sweet and savory flavor profile. You can also use a mixture of soy sauce and brown sugar, or a vegetarian oyster sauce made from mushrooms. Keep in mind that the flavor of the dish may be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
How can I make the sauce thicker?If you want to thicken the sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then add it to the sauce while it’s simmering. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. You can also let the sauce simmer for a longer period of time to allow it to reduce and thicken naturally.

Conclusion for Easy Beef and Broccoli

Easy Beef and Broccoli is a fantastic dish that combines the rich flavors of tender beef with the healthy goodness of broccoli, all coated in a savory sauce that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. This recipe is not only quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights, but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking with various additions and substitutions. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Pro Tips: For extra flavor, marinate the beef overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. This will give your beef and broccoli a nice kick without overpowering the other flavors.

Here are a couple of variations to try:

Spicy Beef and Broccoli: Add 1-2 tablespoons of chili garlic sauce to the sauce for a fiery kick. You can also add sliced chili peppers for extra heat.

Garlic Ginger Beef and Broccoli: Increase the amount of garlic and ginger in the sauce for a more pronounced flavor. You can also add a teaspoon of grated ginger to the beef marinade for an extra layer of flavor.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables as well. Bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots are all great additions to this dish. The key is to cut the vegetables into similar sizes so they cook evenly. Internal Link: Do you want to know Can You Use Taco Seasoning on Chicken Instead of Beef?

This Easy Beef and Broccoli recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of textures and flavors, from the tender beef to the crisp-tender broccoli, all coated in that luscious sauce, is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables while enjoying a satisfying and delicious meal. Whether you serve it over rice, noodles, or as a standalone dish, this Easy Beef and Broccoli is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy exploring Difference Between Chicken Taco Seasoning and Beef Taco Seasoning!

With its ease of preparation, customizable nature, and incredible flavor, Easy Beef and Broccoli is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your repertoire. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. You won’t be disappointed!

Easy Beef and Broccoli: A Delicious Weeknight Dinner

Print Recipe

This easy beef and broccoli recipe comes together in just minutes! A weeknight staple the whole family will love.

Author: Kiera

Prep Time: 10
Cook Time: 15
Total Time: 25

Yield: 4 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Stir-Fry

Cuisine: Asian

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
1 head broccoli, cut into florets

1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 clove garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated
Vegetable oil, for cooking

Instructions

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add beef and stir-fry until browned, about 2-3 minutes. Remove beef from skillet and set aside.
Add broccoli to the skillet and stir-fry until tender-crisp, about 3-5 minutes. Return beef to the skillet. Pour sauce over beef and broccoli. Cook, stirring constantly, until sauce has thickened, about 1-2 minutes. Serve over rice.