Easy Beef and Broccoli Recipe

Name: Easy Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 1 pound beef (flank steak or sirloin), sliced thinly; 3 cups broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Experience the perfect blend of savory beef and crisp broccoli with this easy Beef and Broccoli recipe. This quick stir-fry dish is packed with flavor and made in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight meal that the whole family will love. Serve it over rice or noodles for a satisfying dinner that’s both delicious and nutritious.

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2025-11-13T11:19:12.261Z

A Quick and Healthy Meal

When you’re pressed for time but still want a nutritious meal, this Easy Beef and Broccoli recipe is the solution. Packed with protein from the beef and vitamins from the broccoli, it offers a well-balanced option for dinner. Not only does it fuel your body with essential nutrients, but it also delivers incredible flavor in under 30 minutes. You can customize this dish with different vegetables or sauces to fit your family’s preferences, making it a versatile weeknight favorite.

Cooking at home means you can control the ingredients and portion sizes, which is perfect for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Vegetables, such as broccoli, are rich in antioxidants and fiber, which can help support a strong immune system and improve digestion. By preparing this dish yourself, you also reduce the need for takeout, which often contains excessive sodium and unhealthy fats.

Flavor Combinations

The harmonious blend of flavors in this dish makes it truly delightful. The umami-rich soy sauce pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the brown sugar, creating a sauce that’s both savory and slightly sweet. With ginger and garlic adding depth and a bit of heat, every bite is packed with vibrant taste. This balance makes the dish appealing not just for adults but also for children, who often enjoy the slightly sweet and savory flavors.

You can also explore various flavor adaptations by incorporating different sauces or spices. For a kick, try adding red pepper flakes or a splash of your favorite hot sauce. Or, for a different twist, experiment with hoisin sauce or oyster sauce, which would enhance the traditional flavors and add another layer of complexity to this easy dish.

Serving Suggestions

This Beef and Broccoli dish is perfect when served over fluffy white or brown rice, which helps to soak up the delicious sauce. If you're looking for a lighter option, serve it alongside spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal. These options not only complement the flavors of the dish but also enhance its nutritional profile.

For an extra touch, garnish the finished dish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions. This adds a lovely crunch and visual appeal that makes the dish not only delicious but also Instagram-worthy. Pair it with a side of egg rolls or a simple salad for a complete meal that is sure to impress family and friends.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound beef (flank steak or sirloin), sliced thinly
3 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced

Sauce Ingredients

1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon sesame oil

Combine the ingredients in a bowl ahead of cooking for a smoother preparation process.

Steps

Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, mix soy sauce, cornstarch, water, brown sugar, and sesame oil until well combined.

Cook the Beef

In a large pan or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove the beef and set aside.

Stir-fry Broccoli

Add the garlic, ginger, and broccoli to the pan. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender-crisp.

Combine and Serve

Return the beef to the pan, add the sauce, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is evenly coated and heated through. Serve over rice or noodles.

Enjoy your homemade Beef and Broccoli!

Tips for Preparation

To ensure that the beef remains tender, slice it thinly against the grain. This method helps break down muscle fibers, making each bite much more enjoyable. Additionally, it's helpful to marinate the beef briefly in the soy sauce mixture before cooking. This not only infuses more flavor but also helps tenderize the meat.

Preparation is key to a smooth cooking process. Have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. This allows the stir-frying to happen quickly and ensures everything cooks evenly, maintaining the vibrant color and crunch of the vegetables.

Choosing Your Beef

When selecting the best cut for your Beef and Broccoli, flank steak and sirloin are excellent choices. Flank steak offers a rich flavor and, when cooked correctly, remains tender. Sirloin is leaner and still provides great taste, making it a popular choice for stir-fry dishes.

Feel free to explore other protein options as well. Chicken or tofu can be excellent substitutes if you’re looking for alternatives. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as both chicken and tofu may require a slightly different approach to achieve the same flavor and texture.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making for a great meal the next day. When reheating, try to do so gently on the stovetop over medium heat to prevent the broccoli from becoming mushy.

For longer storage, you can freeze the recipe for up to three months. Ensure the dish is fully cooled before placing it in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm up on the stove. This method will help maintain the quality and flavor of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, chicken is a great substitute in this recipe.

→ What can I serve this dish with?

Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal.