Beef And Broccoli Recipe

Tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory, slightly sweet sauce come together to create the ultimate Beef and Broccoli dish. This Chinese-American favorite is perfect for weeknight dinners, offering restaurant-quality flavor in just 30 minutes.

I remember falling in love with beef and broccoli at my favorite takeout spot, but once I learned how simple it was to make at home, it became a staple in my kitchen. Let’s get started on this quick, delicious recipe that’ll have your family coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Beef and Broccoli Recipe

There’s so much to love about this classic dish. Here’s why it’s bound to become a regular on your meal plan:

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish is both satisfying and nourishing.
• Versatile: Serve it over steamed rice, noodles, or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option.
• Budget-Friendly: Using affordable cuts of beef like flank steak or sirloin keeps costs low without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients Notes

This dish relies on simple, fresh ingredients to create bold flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

Beef: Thinly sliced flank steak or sirloin works best for this dish. The thinner the slices, the more tender the beef will be.

Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are ideal, but frozen works in a pinch. Blanching or steaming ensures the perfect tender-crisp texture.

Soy Sauce: Use regular or low-sodium soy sauce for the base of the sauce. It adds umami and depth to the dish.

Oyster Sauce: A key ingredient for the savory and slightly sweet flavor. It’s the secret to authentic beef and broccoli.

Garlic and Ginger: These aromatics elevate the sauce and give it a classic, fragrant flavor.

Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce and makes the beef velvety when used in the marinade.

Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty aroma and rounds out the sauce perfectly.

Brown Sugar: Balances the saltiness with a hint of sweetness.

How to Make Easy Beef and Broccoli

Here’s how to create this flavorful dish step by step:

Step 1: Prep the Beef

Slice the beef thinly against the grain for tenderness. In a bowl, toss the beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, and a splash of water. Let it marinate for 15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Blanch the Broccoli

Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and a splash of water. Add a drizzle of sesame oil for richness.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and cook the marinated beef in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear each side for 1-2 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

In the same skillet, sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant. Return the beef to the skillet, pour in the sauce, and stir to coat. Add the blanched broccoli and toss everything together until heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired.

Storage Options

Beef and Broccoli stores and reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is easy to customize to fit your tastes or dietary needs:

• Protein Swap: Use chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead of beef for a different spin.
• Low-Carb: Skip the rice and serve over cauliflower rice or stir-fried zucchini noodles.
• Gluten-Free: Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free.
• Extra Veggies: Add sliced carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas for more color and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for some heat.

Tips for Perfect Beef and Broccoli

• Slice Thinly: Cutting the beef against the grain and into thin strips ensures it stays tender.
• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Keep it slightly crisp to retain its vibrant color and texture.
• Use High Heat: A hot skillet or wok creates the perfect sear on the beef and helps the sauce thicken quickly.
• Prep Ahead: Have all your ingredients ready to go before you start cooking; this dish comes together fast!

This Beef and Broccoli recipe is the perfect combination of simplicity and flavor. With tender beef, fresh broccoli, and a savory sauce, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try—you won’t need takeout again!

Print