The first bite of Beef and Broccoli takes me back to cozy dinners filled with laughter and warmth. There’s something hypnotic about the vibrant green of fresh broccoli mingling with tender strips of beef, all enveloped in a savory sauce that beckons you to take just one more bite. After a long day, the promise of this quick, delicious meal makes the evening feel just a bit brighter.
I stumbled upon this recipe while searching for a way to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. This dish defies the common notion that good food takes ages to prepare. With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes—perfect for those who crave homemade goodness but are short on time.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing friends and family, this Beef and Broccoli recipe not only tastes divine but also delivers ample protein and nutrients. Get ready to experience the delightful fusion of flavors—you won’t want to miss it!
Why You'll Love This Beef and Broccoli
- This Beef and Broccoli recipe is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal in just 25 minutes.
- The rich, savory flavors create a delightful dish that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
- Its versatility makes it perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish for entertaining friends.
- The vibrant colors of fresh broccoli and tender beef make this meal as visually appealing as it is tasty, ensuring that it looks as good on your plate as it tastes.
Beef and Broccoli Ingredients
Get ready to whip up this deliciously quick Beef and Broccoli dish!
For the Beef
• 1 lb beef flank steak – thinly sliced for tender bites that soak up the savory sauce.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch – helps create a delightful coating that locks in moisture during cooking.
For the Vegetables
• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets – add a vibrant crunch and a boost of nutrients to your meal.
• 3 cloves garlic – freshly minced for a fragrant aroma that enhances the overall flavor.
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger – grated to bring warmth and a hint of spice that complements the beef beautifully.
For the Sauce
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce – offers umami punch without overwhelming the dish with saltiness.
• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth – adds depth to the sauce, balancing perfectly with the other flavors.
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil – a finishing touch that provides a nutty, aromatic richness to the dish.
Feel free to customize this with your favorite veggies or proteins for a unique spin on classic Beef and Broccoli!
How to Make Beef and Broccoli
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Slice the Beef: Begin by slicing the beef flank steak into thin, even strips—this ensures even cooking and tenderness. The slices should be about ¼ inch thick for perfect bites.
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Marinate: In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and cornstarch. Allow it to marinate for 15 minutes to lock in those flavors.
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Heat the Skillet: Warm up a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in the sesame oil. Once hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer and watch it sizzle. Cook for about 3 minutes until it’s nicely browned.
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Add the Broccoli: Toss in the broccoli florets to the skillet and stir-fry with the beef. Cook for an additional 3 minutes until the broccoli is tender-crisp and vibrantly green.
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Incorporate the Broth: Pour in the low-sodium beef broth, stirring well to blend all the delicious flavors together. Let it simmer for just a minute to meld the tastes.
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Serve: Plate your Beef and Broccoli hot, either over fluffy rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.
Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for an extra touch of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Beef and Broccoli?
Building a delicious meal around your flavorful Beef and Broccoli elevates the experience to a whole new level.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy, fragrant grains soak up all that savory sauce, providing a perfect backdrop for the dish’s bold flavors. This classic accompaniment not only enhances the meal’s texture but also fills the plate in a way that feels hearty and comforting.
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Garlic Noodles: These tender noodles, tossed in garlic-infused oil, mirror the delicious garlic notes in the Beef and Broccoli. A sprinkle of green onions adds a burst of freshness, making each bite a delectable harmony of flavor.
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Sesame Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in sesame oil complement the nutty aroma of the Beef and Broccoli. Their vibrant color and slight crunch bring an extra crunch and nutrient boost to your dinner table.
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Miso Soup: This warm, savory soup is a soothing starter that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the Beef and Broccoli. Its lightness helps balance the meal while enhancing the Asian-inspired flavors.
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Sweet and Sour Cucumber Salad: A chilled cucumber salad adds a refreshing and tangy contrast to the savory beef. The crispiness of the cucumbers lightens the meal, making it feel even more satisfying.
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Chilled Sake: Enjoy a glass of chilled sake to elevate your dining experience. Its subtly sweet notes beautifully complement the salty soy sauce, enhancing the flavors of the dish with each sip.
Creating a delightful ensemble around your Beef and Broccoli transforms dinner into a memorable feast!
Make Ahead Options
These Beef and Broccoli components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the beef flank steak and marinate it up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen while ensuring tender bites. Additionally, you can chop the broccoli florets and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat a skillet and cook the marinated beef for about 3 minutes, then add the broccoli and stir-fry for another 3 minutes. Pour in the beef broth, give it a little simmer, and you’ll have a quick, restaurant-quality dinner that’s just as delicious as if you’d made it fresh!
Beef and Broccoli Variations
Feel free to personalize this recipe and make it your own; the possibilities are endless!
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Paleo-Friendly: Swap beef for thinly sliced chicken or pork for a lighter option that still captures the essence of this classic dish.
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Vegetarian Delight: Use seitan or tempeh instead of beef, and double the broccoli for a meat-free alternative that’s just as hearty.
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Gluten-Free: Replace soy sauce with tamari to keep those rich flavors while catering to gluten sensitivities.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of Sriracha while stir-frying for a flavorful heat that will awaken your taste buds.
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Extra Crunch: Toss in sliced bell peppers or snap peas alongside the broccoli for a vibrant color and added crunch.
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Creamy Twist: Stir in a spoonful of peanut butter or tahini to the sauce for a delicious nutty richness that gives your dish a whole new dimension.
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Asian Fusion: Incorporate a splash of oyster sauce or hoisin sauce for uniquely exciting flavors that pay homage to traditional Asian cooking.
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Herbaceous Freshness: Top with fresh cilantro or basil before serving for a burst of fresh flavor that brightens every bite.
With these variations, you can create a Beef and Broccoli dish that’s truly tailor-made to your tastes. Enjoy the journey of flavor and creativity!
How to Store and Freeze Beef and Broccoli
Fridge: Store leftover Beef and Broccoli in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Refrigerating helps maintain flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the sauce moist. Avoid microwave reheating for best texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing Beef and Broccoli, ensure the beef is sliced against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet when cooking the beef to achieve a nice sear; cook it in batches if necessary.
- Use fresh broccoli for the best texture and flavor, and add it to the skillet when the beef is nearly cooked to prevent overcooking.
- Maintain a medium-high heat throughout the cooking process to keep things sizzling and reduce cooking time while enhancing flavor.
Beef and Broccoli Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select fresh broccoli?
Absolutely! When choosing broccoli, look for florets that are bright green and tightly packed, without any yellowing or dark spots. The stems should be firm, not woody or limp. This ensures you’re getting the freshest produce that will contribute to the overall flavor and texture of your Beef and Broccoli.
How should I store leftover Beef and Broccoli?
Very! To store leftover Beef and Broccoli, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up, as this helps prevent condensation that can make the dish soggy.
Can I freeze Beef and Broccoli?
Yes! To freeze your Beef and Broccoli, first let it cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth for the best results.
What should I do if my beef is tough?
If your Beef and Broccoli has turned out tough, it could be due to slicing against the grain. For next time, make sure to slice the beef flank steak against the grain into thin strips—this breaks up muscle fibers and ensures tenderness. Marinating it for at least 15 minutes also helps to tenderize the meat. If you still find it tough, consider cooking it a little longer on low heat to allow the meat to relax.
Is this Beef and Broccoli recipe suitable for those with allergies?
Of course! If you or someone you’re serving has allergies, be mindful of the soy sauce as it contains gluten. You can substitute it with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Additionally, if sesame oil is a concern, you could replace it with a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil. Always check labels for any hidden allergens!
Beef and Broccoli
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by slicing the beef flank steak into thin, even strips about ¼ inch thick.
- In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and cornstarch. Allow it to marinate for 15 minutes.
- Warm up a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in the sesame oil. Once hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer and cook for about 3 minutes until browned.
- Toss in the broccoli florets to the skillet and stir-fry with the beef for an additional 3 minutes until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
- Pour in the low-sodium beef broth, stirring well to blend the flavors together. Let it simmer for a minute.
- Plate your Beef and Broccoli hot, optionally served over rice or noodles.
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