Nothing beats the comforting charm of a stir-fry that’s quick, delicious, and bursting with flavor. This Easy Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe is one of my go-to dishes when I want something satisfying without a fuss. Tender, marinated flank steak mingles with crisp-tender broccoli in a savory, slightly sweet sauce that clings perfectly to every bite. It’s a classic that brings together simple ingredients into a vibrant, home-cooked experience you’ll want on repeat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role in delivering authentic flavor, vibrant color, and that perfect balance of textures. Getting your ingredients prepped just right makes the cooking process a joy and ensures every bite is a winner.
- 1 pound flank steak: Thinly sliced against the grain to keep the beef tender and juicy.
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch (divided): Helps coat the beef for a silky texture and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons water: Used to create a smooth cornstarch slurry for coating the meat.
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger (grated): Brings a fresh, zesty kick that brightens up the sauce.
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce: Adds that deep, umami richness without overpowering the dish.
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil: Infuses a toasty, nutty aroma that makes each mouthful so fragrant.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Offers a subtle warmth to balance the sweetness.
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar: Blends seamlessly with the soy sauce to provide a perfectly balanced sweet note.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 2 cloves): Essential for that punch of savory flavor that complements the ginger.
- 4 cups broccoli florets: Chosen for their freshness and crunch, they bring vibrant color and nutrition.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided): Used to stir-fry the beef and broccoli just right without sticking.
- Cooked white rice and sesame seeds (for serving): Classic accompaniments that elevate the dish into a complete meal.
How to Make Easy Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Beef
The first step is all about technique. Slice the flank steak thinly against the grain, about ¼-inch thick, which is key to ensuring your beef stays tender and doesn’t become chewy. Each slice should be uniform for even cooking.
Step 2: Coat the Beef
Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with water to create a light slurry, and toss in your beef slices so they get a thin, even coating. This step helps lock in moisture and gives the meat a silky, luscious finish once cooked.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, stir together grated ginger, low-sodium soy sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, brown sugar, minced garlic, and the remaining tablespoon of cornstarch. This blend is what transforms your stir-fry into a savory masterpiece with subtle layers of flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Broccoli
Cut your broccoli florets into evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly. The goal is tender-crisp broccoli that still has a nice snap when you bite into it.
Step 5: Cook the Broccoli
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add your broccoli and stir-fry it for about 4 to 5 minutes until bright green and tender but still retaining a satisfying crunch. Once done, transfer it to a small bowl to rest.
Step 6: Cook the Beef
Add the remaining vegetable oil to the skillet, then the flaked beef slices. Cook them evenly over medium-high heat for about 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the beef to brown nicely while sealing in the juices.
Step 7: Combine with Sauce
Pour the prepared soy sauce mixture directly into the skillet with the beef. Stir well to coat every piece with the glossy sauce and let it simmer gently for a minute to thicken and intensify in flavor.
Step 8: Add Broccoli and Finish
Return the cooked broccoli to the skillet and toss everything together until the sauce evenly coats both the vibrant greens and the tender beef pieces. A quick stir and a minute or two of warming through seals the deal for a perfect Easy Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe.
How to Serve Easy Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a handful of toasted sesame seeds and a few thinly sliced green onions over the top just before serving to add a delightful crunch and fresh aroma that will wow your taste buds.
Side Dishes
This dish shines best served with fluffy, steamed white rice, which soaks up every bit of that luscious sauce. For a fun variation, try it with brown rice or even noodles to switch up textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive twist, serve your beef and broccoli stir-fry in handheld lettuce cups or atop crispy wonton chips. You can also pack it into warm pita pockets or stuff it into steamed bao buns for bites full of flavor and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover beef and broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
You can freeze this stir-fry if you want to save it longer—place it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Just remember that the broccoli’s texture may soften a bit after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep the beef tender and the broccoli crisp-tender. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving for best texture, but if you do, cover loosely to retain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this stir-fry?
Absolutely! Flank steak is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, but you can also use skirt steak, sirloin, or even ribeye thinly sliced. Just ensure you cut against the grain to keep the meat tender.
Is it necessary to use fresh ginger in the Easy Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe?
Fresh ginger gives this dish its vibrant zing and depth. While ground ginger can be a substitute in a pinch, fresh grated ginger really brightens the flavor in a way powder just can’t replicate.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Simply swap the low-sodium soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, and double-check that your other ingredients are gluten-free. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free.
What can I do if I don’t have cornstarch?
If cornstarch is not available, arrowroot powder or potato starch can be good substitutes for coating the beef and thickening the sauce, maintaining that lovely texture.
How do I keep the broccoli bright green and crisp?
Cooking broccoli quickly in hot oil and avoiding overcooking helps it stay crisp and green. You can also briefly blanch the broccoli in boiling water then plunge it into ice water before stir-frying to preserve its vibrant color and crunch.
Final Thoughts
Sharing this Easy Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe feels like passing along a warm hug on a plate. It’s foolproof, flavorful, and fast — perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a comforting, fresh meal. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved favorite in your kitchen too!
