Name: Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak thinly sliced; 2 Tbsp olive oil divided; 1 lb broccoli about 6 cups florets; 2 tsp sesame seeds optional for garnish; 1 tsp grated ginger; 2 tsp grated garlic; 1/2 cup hot water; 6 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce; 3 Tbsp packed light brown sugar; 1 1/2 Tbsp cornstarch; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 Tbsp sesame oil

This beef and broccoli stir fry brings restaurant-style flavor straight to your kitchen in just 30 minutes.

With tender strips of flank steak, crisp-tender broccoli, and a rich soy-based sauce, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner served over steamed white rice.

If you love classic Chinese takeout dishes, this homemade version is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Full of bold, savory flavors

Ready in under 30 minutes

Easy to make gluten-free

Perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights

Healthier than traditional takeout

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Flank Steak
Thinly sliced against the grain, flank steak cooks quickly and remains tender when stir-fried.

Broccoli Florets
Fresh broccoli adds color, crunch, and a boost of nutrients to balance the dish.

Sesame Oil
A small amount adds a rich, nutty aroma that gives stir fry its classic flavor.

Soy Sauce
Low-sodium soy sauce balances out the sweetness of brown sugar and adds umami.

Substitute with Tamari for a gluten-free option.

Garlic and Ginger
Freshly grated garlic and ginger give the sauce its authentic, aromatic base.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Partially freeze the beef for 30 minutes to make thin slicing easier

Slice beef against the grain to enhance tenderness

Stir the sauce well before using to dissolve the cornstarch

Don’t overcook the broccoli—crisp-tender is ideal

Prep all ingredients before cooking for a smooth stir-fry process

How to Make Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
If serving with rice, start cooking it now.

Partially freeze the flank steak for 30 minutes, then slice it thinly into bite-sized strips against the grain.

Chop broccoli into small, uniform florets.

Step 2: Make the Stir Fry Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together grated ginger, garlic, hot water, soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, black pepper, and sesame oil.

Stir until the sugar and cornstarch are completely dissolved. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of oil.

Add the broccoli florets and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Partially cover the skillet to help them steam.

Remove from the pan once bright green and crisp-tender.

Step 4: Sear the Beef
Increase the heat to high.

Add the remaining tablespoon of oil and arrange the beef in a single layer in the hot skillet.

Sear for about 2 minutes per side until browned and just cooked through.

Avoid overcrowding the pan for the best sear.

Step 5: Add the Sauce
Reduce heat to medium-low.

Pour the stir fry sauce over the beef and stir to coat.

Let it simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the meat.

Step 6: Combine and Serve
Return the broccoli to the skillet and stir everything together.

If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of water.

Serve immediately over white rice, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.

What to Serve It With

Steamed jasmine or basmati rice

Brown rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter option

Stir-fried noodles or lo mein

Crispy spring rolls or egg rolls

A side of pickled vegetables or Asian-style slaw

Variations and Substitutions

Substitute chicken or tofu for the beef

Use frozen broccoli florets if fresh isn’t available

Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra veggies

Adjust spice level with red pepper flakes or chili garlic sauce

Replace brown sugar with honey or maple syrup

Storage and Leftovers

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days

Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce

Avoid microwaving for too long as it may overcook the broccoli

FAQs

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free Tamari instead of soy sauce, and ensure all other ingredients (like cornstarch) are certified gluten-free.

What cut of beef works best?
Flank steak is ideal, but skirt steak or sirloin tip will also work.

Slice thinly across the grain for best results.

Can I meal prep this recipe?
Absolutely. Make the beef and broccoli up to 3 days ahead and store with cooked rice in individual containers for easy lunches.

How do I make the sauce thicker?
Let it simmer gently until it thickens naturally.

If needed, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp water) to help it along.

Is this dish spicy?
Not by default. It’s savory and slightly sweet, but you can add heat with chili flakes or hot sauce if desired.

Final Thoughts

Beef and broccoli stir fry is a timeless takeout favorite that’s surprisingly easy to recreate at home.

With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, it’s perfect for busy nights when you still want something satisfying and flavorful.

Keep this one on rotation—you won’t get tired of it anytime soon.