Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a classic takeout favorite made right in your kitchen! Tender slices of beef come together with crisp, bright green broccoli florets in a simple, flavorful sauce that’s both slightly sweet and salty. The garlic and ginger add a nice little kick, making every bite a perfect mix of textures and tastes.
I love making this dish because it comes together quickly, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights. One of my favorite tips is to cut the beef thin and cook it fast over high heat to keep it juicy and tender. Plus, using fresh broccoli instead of frozen really makes a difference in crunch and color.
We usually eat this stir fry over a bed of steamed rice, which soaks up all the tasty sauce. It’s always a hit with family and friends because it’s simple, satisfying, and feels like a special treat even though it’s easy to make. Whenever I whip up beef and broccoli, it reminds me of sharing meals with loved ones and how comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Flank steak or sirloin works best due to their tenderness and quick cooking. Slice thinly against the grain to keep it tender. If unavailable, you can use skirt steak or even thinly sliced chicken for a different twist.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives the best crunch and vibrant color. Avoid frozen if you want crisp texture, but frozen can work in a pinch. Cut into bite-sized florets for even cooking.
Sauces: Soy, oyster, and hoisin sauces are the flavor backbone. If you need gluten-free options, try tamari for soy sauce and look for gluten-free oyster sauce alternatives. Hoisin can be omitted or replaced with a mix of miso and honey for sweetness.
Cornstarch: This thickens the sauce nicely. You can use arrowroot or potato starch as a substitute for a gluten-free version.
How Do You Get Tender Beef and Crisp Broccoli in Stir Fry?
This is all about quick, high heat cooking and proper prep. Here’s how to nail it:
- Slice beef thinly across the grain to break muscle fibers and keep meat tender.
- Cook beef in batches over high heat to sear and avoid steaming. Remove it before fully cooking to prevent toughness.
- Stir-fry broccoli quickly to keep crunch. Adding a splash of water and covering helps steam without sogginess.
- Add sauce last, tossing everything to coat and letting it thicken for a few minutes for full flavor.
Keep your pan hot and work fast. This method locks in texture and flavor, giving you that delicious balance every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large wok or skillet – heats evenly and gives enough space to cook beef and broccoli quickly without crowding.
- Sharp knife – makes slicing the beef thin and evenly much easier and safer.
- Cutting board – sturdy and large enough for chopping broccoli and slicing meat.
- Mixing bowl – perfect for whisking together the sauce ingredients.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – helps stir and toss the stir-fry without scratching your pan.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap beef for chicken or tofu if you want a lighter or vegetarian version; both soak up the sauce well.
- Add sliced bell peppers or snap peas for extra color, crunch, and freshness.
- Use a splash of rice vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes to give the sauce a little tang or heat.
- Stir in toasted cashews or sliced almonds at the end for a nice nutty crunch.
How to Make Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef and Broccoli:
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
For the Sauce:
- ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- â…“ cup water or beef broth
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
For Garnish and Serving:
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing and cooking this stir fry takes around 20 to 25 minutes. This includes slicing the beef and broccoli, mixing the sauce, stir-frying the ingredients, and garnishing. It’s a quick meal perfect for a busy evening.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and water or beef broth until smooth. Set this aside to use later.
2. Cook the Beef:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Lay the thinly sliced beef in the pan in a single layer. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until browned on the outside but not fully cooked inside. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté Garlic, Ginger, and Broccoli:
In the same pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Add minced garlic and ginger and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add broccoli florets. Stir-fry them for 3 to 5 minutes until they become bright green and crisp-tender. To help the broccoli cook evenly, you can add a splash of water and cover the pan for a minute or two to steam.
4. Combine Beef, Broccoli, and Sauce:
Return the cooked beef to the pan with the broccoli. Give the sauce a quick stir and pour it over the beef and broccoli. Stir everything together well to coat evenly. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the beef to finish cooking through.
5. Finish and Serve:
Drizzle the toasted sesame oil over the stir fry and toss gently to combine. Serve your beef and broccoli hot over cooked white rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and optional toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Stir Fry?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but thaw it and drain any excess water before cooking to avoid sogginess. Fresh broccoli will give you a crisper texture and brighter color if possible.
What’s the Best Way to Slice the Beef?
Slice the beef thinly against the grain to keep it tender and easy to chew. Partially freezing the beef for about 30 minutes can make slicing much easier.
Can I Make This Stir Fry Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the sauce and slice the ingredients in advance, then store them separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Cook the stir fry fresh for the best texture and flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover beef and broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over medium-low heat to avoid overcooking the beef or broccoli.
