This classic beef and broccoli stir-fry is a weeknight winner, delivering incredible flavor in record time. Forget takeout when you can whip up this easy, delicious dish faster and healthier at home. Get ready for perfectly tender beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and an irresistible savory sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. This recipe helps you create a perfect stir-fry sauce every time, making homemade beef and broccoli a breeze.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Beef and Broccoli
You’ll discover why this homemade version quickly becomes a family favorite. This recipe makes achieving restaurant-quality flavor at home incredibly simple.
- It’s a quick 30-minute meal, perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner fast.
- You can customize it with fresh, healthy ingredients, knowing exactly what goes into your meal.
- This family-friendly dish is satisfying for all ages and tastes.
- Enjoy simple, one-pan cleanup, making post-dinner chores a breeze.
- You control the ingredients, making a healthier option than many restaurant versions of beef and broccoli.
Ingredients
Gathering your fresh ingredients is the first step to a fantastic stir-fry. High-quality components make all the difference in this flavorful dish.
For the Beef & Broccoli
- 1 lb flank steak: very thinly sliced into bite-sized strips.
- 2 Tbsp olive oil: (or vegetable oil), divided.
- 1 lb fresh broccoli: (cut into 6 cups of florets).
- 2 tsp sesame seeds: optional garnish.
For the Delicious Stir-Fry Sauce
- 1 tsp fresh ginger: grated (loosely packed).
- 2 tsp garlic: grated (from 3 cloves).
- 1/2 cup hot water.
- 6 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce: (or GF Tamari).
- 3 Tbsp packed light brown sugar.
- 1 1/2 Tbsp corn starch.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper.
- 2 Tbsp sesame oil.
Notes & Substitutions
You have flexibility with many ingredients, ensuring this recipe works for your pantry and preferences.
- Beef: Flank steak is ideal, but top sirloin, top round, tri-tip, or ribeye also work wonderfully for stir-fries.
- Broccoli: Always choose fresh over frozen broccoli florets for the best texture and vibrant color.
- Soy Sauce: Use gluten-free tamari as a fantastic alternative if you follow a gluten-free diet.
- Sweetener: Honey or maple syrup can replace brown sugar in equal amounts if preferred.
- Thickeners: Arrowroot powder is an excellent alternative to cornstarch for thickening the sauce.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and crunch to your beef and broccoli stir-fry.
Equipment You’ll Need
Having the right tools makes preparing this beef and broccoli dish smooth and enjoyable. You likely already own most of these kitchen essentials.
- Large skillet or wok: essential for stir-frying at high heat.
- Sharp knife: for precise, thin slicing of the beef and other ingredients.
- Cutting board: to protect your countertop while prepping.
- Mixing bowls: for whisking the sauce and marinating the beef.
- Whisk: to combine sauce ingredients smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: for accurate ingredient portions.
How to Make Beef and Broccoli (Step-by-Step Instructions)
Creating this delicious beef and broccoli stir-fry is straightforward with these simple steps. Follow along to achieve perfect results every time.
- Prepare Beef: Start cooking white rice first so it’s ready when the stir fry is done. Cover and freeze steak for 30 minutes; this makes it much easier to slice very thinly against the grain. Slice the beef into bite-sized strips.
- Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine all stir-fry sauce ingredients: grated ginger, grated garlic, hot water, low sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, black pepper, and sesame oil. Whisk well until the sugar dissolves completely and the sauce is smooth. Set this flavorful sauce aside.
- Cook Broccoli: Place a large skillet or wok over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the fresh broccoli florets and sauté for 4-5 minutes. Partially cover the pan with a lid, stirring or tossing several times, until the broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender. Remove the cooked broccoli from the pan and set it aside. For softer broccoli, add 2 tablespoons of water before covering the lid to steam cook the florets.
- Sear Beef: Increase the heat to high. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the hot skillet. Add the thinly sliced beef in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sauté the beef for about 2 minutes per side, or just until it is browned and cooked through. Quickly pull out a piece to test for doneness. Cook the beef in batches if necessary to ensure proper searing.
- Combine & Simmer: Return all the cooked beef to the pan if you cooked it in batches. Give your prepared sauce a quick whisk again, then pour it over the beef in the pan. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cornstarch will cause the sauce to thicken nicely as it cooks.
- Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, add the cooked broccoli back into the pan. Stir everything gently to combine, ensuring the broccoli is evenly coated with the delicious sauce.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thinner sauce for your beef and broccoli, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of water until it reaches your desired consistency. Serve the hot beef and broccoli immediately over fluffy white rice.
Pro Tips for the Best Beef and Broccoli
Achieve restaurant-quality results at home with these simple, expert tips. Mastering these techniques will elevate your homemade stir-fry.
A key technique for tender beef in stir-fries is to slice it thinly against the grain, which helps shorten muscle fibers for a more enjoyable texture. Discover more about slicing beef for stir-fries for optimal results.
- Slicing Beef: Freezing your steak for 20-30 minutes makes it much firmer and significantly easier to slice paper-thin against the grain. This ensures tender beef in your beef and broccoli.
- High Heat Searing: Always use a very hot pan for searing the beef. High heat creates a beautiful crust and locks in maximum flavor, preventing the beef from steaming.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook the beef in small batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan lowers the temperature and prevents proper searing, leading to less flavorful beef.
- Broccoli Texture: Adjust the broccoli cooking time to your preference. For softer florets, add a splash of water and cover the pan briefly to steam them.
- Sauce Flavor: Don’t skip fresh grated ginger and sesame oil. These ingredients are crucial for that authentic, rich flavor in your beef and broccoli sauce. Healthline explains that sesame oil offers several health benefits due to its antioxidant properties.
Serving, Storage, and Variations
Enjoy your delicious stir-fry in many ways, with simple options for leftovers and easy ingredient swaps. This versatile dish fits various tastes and meal plans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your freshly made beef and broccoli hot for the best experience.
- Serve it hot over fluffy white rice or nutritious brown rice for a complete meal.
- Pair it with your favorite noodles, like lo mein or ramen, for a satisfying twist.
- Garnish with extra sesame seeds for added crunch and visual appeal.
Storage & Reheating
Proper storage keeps your stir-fry fresh for future meals.
- Refrigerate any leftover beef and broccoli in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a tablespoon or two of water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Freezing is possible, but note that broccoli texture may become softer upon thawing.
Flavor & Ingredient Variations
Easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Vegetables: Experiment by adding snow peas, baby corn, or sliced water chestnuts for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Protein: Substitute chicken breast, shrimp, or even firm tofu for the beef for a different protein option.
- Spice Level: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for a delightful kick.
- Citrus: A squeeze of fresh lime juice at the end brightens all the flavors in the beef and broccoli.
Nutrition Information
This homemade beef and broccoli offers a balanced meal with good protein and essential nutrients. It’s a satisfying and wholesome choice for dinner.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | 1 serving |
| Calories | 385 kcal |
| Carbohydrate | 22 g |
| Protein | 29 g |
| Fat | 21 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 68 mg |
| Sodium | 902 mg |
| Potassium | 800 mg |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 11 g |
| Vitamin A | 706 IU |
| Vitamin C | 102 mg |
| Calcium | 101 mg |
| Iron | 3 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Find quick answers to common questions about making perfect beef and broccoli at home. These tips will help you perfect your stir-fry.
What kind of beef is best for stir-fry?
Flank steak is ideal for stir-fries due to its flavor and texture. Other great choices for this beef and broccoli recipe include top sirloin, top round, or even ribeye, sliced thinly.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
While fresh is highly recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen broccoli. Thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding it to the pan.
How do I make the stir-fry sauce thicker or thinner?
To thicken the sauce, whisk an extra 1/2 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the simmering sauce. To thin it, simply add 1-2 tablespoons of hot water until desired consistency is reached for your beef and broccoli.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free by substituting low sodium soy sauce with gluten-free Tamari. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and slice the beef a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then cook the beef and broccoli fresh when ready to serve.
Conclusion
This easy homemade beef and broccoli recipe proves that delicious, restaurant-quality meals are perfectly achievable in your own kitchen. With simple steps and fresh ingredients, you can create a satisfying stir-fry that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Say goodbye to takeout and embrace this healthier, incredibly flavorful option. Enjoy making this quick, delightful beef and broccoli dish for your family tonight!
Easy Homemade Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak very thinly sliced into bite-sized strips
- 2 Tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil, divided
- 1 lb fresh broccoli cut into 6 cups of florets
- 2 tsp sesame seeds optional garnish
- 1 tsp fresh ginger grated (loosely packed)
- 2 tsp garlic grated (from 3 cloves)
- 1/2 cup hot water
- 6 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce or GF Tamari
- 3 Tbsp packed light brown sugar
- 1 1/2 Tbsp corn starch
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 Tbsp sesame oil
Instructions
Instructions
- Start cooking white rice, then cover and freeze the flank steak for 30 minutes to make slicing easier before thinly slicing it against the grain.
- In a bowl, combine all stir-fry sauce ingredients and stir well until the sugar dissolves; set the sauce aside.
- Heat 1 Tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium heat, add broccoli florets, and sauté for 4-5 minutes, partially covered, until bright green and crisp-tender; remove from the pan.
- Increase heat to high, add the remaining 1 Tbsp oil, and sauté the sliced beef in a single layer for 2 minutes per side until just cooked through.
- Add the sauce to the skillet, reduce heat to medium/low, and simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens; then stir in the cooked broccoli and add 1-2 Tbsp water to thin the sauce if desired, serving immediately over white rice.