Easy Beef and Broccoli Recipe in 30 Minutes

Did you know you can make a delicious beef broccoli dish in just 20 minutes? This quick beef dinner is perfect for busy weeknights. It has a high rating of 4.98 out of 5 from 1,705 votes, showing it’s a favorite.

Picture tender steak, crisp broccoli, and a tasty sauce all in one pan. This dish is as good as your favorite takeout but better. It’s fresher, healthier, and easier on your wallet.

This meal is quick and flavorful thanks to simple ingredients. You only need 2 tablespoons of oil, 3 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce, and some garlic and ginger. The recipe uses 1 pound of flank steak, cut thin for fast cooking, and 4 cups of broccoli for a great balance.

Key Takeaways

• Recipe can be prepared in just 20 minutes
• Uses 1 pound of flank steak and 4 cups of broccoli florets
• Sauce includes low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger
• Beef is marinated in a cornstarch mixture for tenderness
• Dish is cooked in one pan for easy cleanup
• Recipe has a high satisfaction rating of 4.98/5 from 1,705 votes
• Each serving contains 385 calories and 29g of protein

Introduction to Quick and Delicious Beef and Broccoli

Craving a tasty chinese beef dish but short on time? Our easy beef recipe for Beef and Broccoli is the answer. This one-pan wonder takes just 30 minutes to whip up, perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll get a plateful of crisp broccoli and tender, flavorful beef, all coated in a mouthwatering stir fry sauce.

This beef stir fry isn’t just quick – it’s packed with nutrition too. Each serving offers a generous 29g of protein, keeping you full and satisfied. With only 343 calories per portion, it’s a smart choice for those watching their intake. The dish also provides a good dose of vitamins, including 62mg of Vitamin C, boosting your immune system.

Want to switch things up? This recipe is flexible. Toss in some snap peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms to add variety and extra nutrients. The best part? You’re in control of the ingredients, ensuring a fresher, healthier meal than takeout. Plus, using budget-friendly cuts like flank or skirt steak keeps this dish easy on your wallet.

“This tasty beef and broccoli is a family favorite now,” raves one happy cook. Another adds, “Best broccoli beef I have ever eaten.”

Ready to dive in? Let’s explore how to create this restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen.

Why This Homemade Version Beats Takeout

Craving a healthy stir fry? Our homemade beef and broccoli recipe is a winner. It’s not only tasty but also full of nutrients. This makes you rethink ordering takeout.

Healthier and Fresher Ingredients

When you cook beef and vegetable stir fry at home, you pick the ingredients. Fresh broccoli gives you 102mg of Vitamin C, boosting your immune system. The beef adds 29g of protein, great for muscles.

Budget-Friendly Option

Cooking at home is cheaper. Our recipe uses affordable soy sauce and cornstarch for the marinade. You get a balanced meal without spending a lot.

Customizable to Your Taste

You can adjust this recipe to your liking. Change the garlic-to-ginger ratio or the oyster sauce to vinegar mix. This beef and broccoli recipe has been loved for over a decade. It’s known for tender meat and a rich sauce.

Essential Ingredients for Beef Broccoli Recipe

Starting with the right ingredients is key to a great beef broccoli recipe. The main ingredient is flat iron steak, cut into thin strips. For the marinade, mix ¼ cup soy sauce with ¼ cup Shaoxing wine or dry sherry.

The stir fry sauce is vital for the dish’s flavor. Combine 2 teaspoons cornstarch, ¼ cup oyster sauce, ⅓ cup low-sodium chicken broth, 1 tablespoon sugar, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil. These ingredients make a rich, savory sauce.

Add depth with minced scallions, garlic, and fresh ginger. These aromatics boost the flavor of your beef broccoli. Also, include fresh broccoli florets, stir-fried for 2 minutes to keep them crunchy.

With these ingredients, you can make a tasty beef broccoli dish at home. The quality of your ingredients affects the taste, so pick the best you can.

Choosing the Best Cut of Beef for Stir-Fry

Choosing the right cut of meat is key for a great beef stir fry. Look for lean, tender cuts full of flavor. Let’s check out some top picks and tips for getting your meat ready.

Flank Steak: The Ideal Choice

Flank steak is the top pick for beef stir fry. It’s a favorite in many Chinese restaurants for its strong beef flavor and good price. This lean cut tastes rich and gets tender when sliced right.

Alternative Cuts: Sirloin, Chuck, and Tenderloin

If you can’t find flank steak, try these other options:

• Sirloin: Lean and flavorful
• Chuck steak: More economical, great for stewing
• Tenderloin: Extremely tender, but pricier

Each cut offers something special to your stir fry. You can pick based on what you like and your budget.

Tips for Slicing Beef Thinly

To get that restaurant-quality texture in your beef stir fry, here are some slicing tips:

1. Freeze beef for 30-60 minutes before cutting
2. Slice against the grain for tender pieces
3. Aim for consistent, thin slices (about 1/4 inch thick)

Remember, how you slice is crucial for a juicy, tender stir fry.

Preparing the Perfect Stir-Fry Sauce

Making a delicious stir fry sauce is crucial for an authentic Chinese beef sauce. It should mix sweet and savory flavors perfectly, making your dish taste like it came from a restaurant. Let’s explore the key ingredients and steps to make this tasty sauce.

The best stir fry sauce has low-sodium soy sauce, water, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil. Brown sugar adds sweetness, and cornstarch thickens it. Fresh ginger and garlic add a deep aroma, and red pepper flakes add a bit of heat.

To make the sauce, combine all ingredients in a bowl. Simmer it for 3 minutes to soften the garlic and ginger. If you want it thinner, add 2 tablespoons of water. This sauce is great with many proteins and veggies, especially in beef and broccoli stir fry.

You can adjust this stir fry sauce to your liking. Add more red pepper flakes for spice or more brown sugar for sweetness. With this easy recipe, you’ll make a fantastic Chinese beef sauce quickly.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making a tasty beef broccoli dish is simple. This guide will show you how to make it in just 23 minutes. With a prep time of 10 minutes and cook time under 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready quickly.

Marinating the Beef

Begin by cutting 3/4 pound of flank or sirloin beef into thin strips. Mix 1 teaspoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon Chinese rice cooking wine, 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch, and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper. Coat the beef and let it sit while you prepare other ingredients.

Cooking the Broccoli

Blanch or steam 3/4 pound of broccoli florets until they are crisp-tender. This keeps the broccoli vibrant and full of nutrients. Set it aside once it’s done.

Stir-Frying the Beef

Heat 2 tablespoons of high-heat cooking oil in a wok or large skillet. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds. Then, add the marinated beef and cook quickly over high heat until it’s browned.

Combining Everything with the Sauce

Make the sauce by mixing 1/4 cup chicken broth, 2 tablespoons oyster sauce, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon Chinese rice cooking wine. Add this to the beef and broccoli. Stir in 1 teaspoon cornstarch dissolved in 1 tablespoon water to thicken the sauce. Cook until everything is well combined and heated through.

This beef broccoli recipe makes a nutritious meal with 364 calories per serving. It has 24g of protein and essential vitamins. For a healthier beef bowl option, use low-sodium soy sauce or mix regular soy sauce with water in a 1:8 ratio. Leftovers can be stored for up to four days, making it perfect for meal prep.

Tips for Achieving Restaurant-Quality Texture

Want to make a tender beef stir fry with crispy broccoli like your favorite takeout? The key is in a few simple techniques. Start by slicing your beef thinly against the grain. This breaks down tough fibers, making the meat melt in your mouth.

For that restaurant-style texture, try velveting your beef. Marinate it in a mix of cornstarch and seasonings before cooking. This coating keeps the beef juicy and tender, even when cooked hot.

Blanching your broccoli is crucial for that perfect texture. Dip the florets in boiling water, then immediately into ice water. This keeps their color bright and their texture crisp, even after stir-frying.

• Use a well-heated wok or pan for the perfect sear
• Cook beef in small batches to avoid overcrowding
• Stir-fry quickly at high heat to maintain texture

Timing is key. Cook your beef until it’s just done, then add the crispy broccoli at the end. This keeps the veggies crunchy and the beef tender. With these tips, you’ll be serving up restaurant-quality beef and broccoli in no time!

Nutritional Benefits of This Beef and Broccoli Dish

This healthy beef recipe is packed with nutrients. It combines lean flank steak with broccoli for a meal that’s both tasty and good for you. This dish is perfect for those looking for a nutritious stir fry.

Flank steak is the main protein in this dish, full of iron and high-quality protein. Broccoli is also a nutritional giant. It’s packed with vitamins A, C, and K, plus minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. And it’s low in calories, with just 34 calories per 100 grams.

This stir fry is not just delicious but also fits many diets. It’s great for clean-eating, paleo, Whole30, and keto diets. It uses healthy oils like olive oil and skips deep-frying, making it a heart-healthy option. With its balanced nutrition and flexibility, this beef and broccoli dish is a smart pick for anyone wanting a tasty meal that’s also good for their health.

Customizing Your Beef Broccoli Recipe

The beauty of a customizable stir fry is its versatility. You can tailor your beef vegetable stir fry to fit your taste and dietary needs. Let’s look at some ways to make this classic dish your own.

Adding Extra Vegetables

Boost the nutrition and taste of your beef broccoli by adding more veggies. Here are some great choices:

• Snap peas for a crisp texture
• Bell peppers for a burst of color
• Carrots for added sweetness
• Mushrooms for an earthy flavor

Adjusting Spice Levels

Make your beef vegetable stir fry as spicy or mild as you like. Add more or less red pepper flakes. It’s easier to add spice than to take it away once it’s cooked.

Gluten-Free Alternatives

If you’re gluten-sensitive, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce. This change makes your stir fry better for more people without losing flavor.

Try different beef cuts to find your favorite taste and texture. The secret to a great beef vegetable stir fry is balancing flavors while keeping it quick to cook.

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

Make your beef broccoli even better with great stir fry sides. Jasmine rice is a top choice, offering a fragrant base that absorbs the savory sauce. For a healthier option, go for brown rice or quinoa. They add nutritional value and a nutty taste to your meal.

Looking for something new? Try Hong Kong noodles for a crunchy texture or mashed potatoes for a cozy feel. Bok choy and sautéed spinach are great veggie sides, adding to your meal’s health benefits.

For a full Asian-themed meal, consider these stir fry sides:

• Spring rolls: Light and crispy
• Fried rice: Versatile and flavorful
• Egg drop soup: A simple starter
• Sesame noodle salad: Refreshing contrast

About 80% of these sides are quick to make, fitting well with your fast beef and broccoli dish. The goal is balance – combine different textures and tastes for a fulfilling meal.

Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Options

Meal prep beef broccoli is a big help for busy weeks. It lets you enjoy a tasty homemade meal without the daily stress. By prepping ingredients early, you can quickly make this dish.

For meal prep, cook the beef and broccoli. Then, put it with rice in microwave-safe containers. Glass containers are best for storing meal preps. This dish keeps fresh in the fridge for 4-5 days, great for lunches at school or work.

If you’re planning ahead, you can freeze the beef broccoli for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready. Here’s a simple guide for meal prepping this dish:

With these make-ahead stir fry options, you can have a delicious, homemade meal any day. It’s a great way to save time without losing flavor or nutrition.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Got leftover beef broccoli? No worries! Store it in an airtight container in your fridge at or below 40°F (4°C) for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating stir fry is easy. For best results, heat your leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

To keep the dish tasty, reheat the beef and broccoli separately. Warm the beef in the oven at 275°F (135°C) or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Steam the broccoli for 2-3 minutes at high heat to keep it crisp.

If you’re short on time, the microwave is an option. Just stir occasionally and heat in short bursts to prevent overcooking. Adding a touch of soy sauce or sesame oil will revive the flavors. With these tips, your leftover beef broccoli will taste almost as good as freshly made!