Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

This Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. The tender flank steak and crisp broccoli are tossed in a savory, garlicky stir fry sauce and served over rice for a satisfying meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. With minimal prep and easy steps, this one-pan wonder is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is everything you want in a quick, delicious dinner. The savory sauce is packed with flavor, the steak is perfectly tender, and the broccoli retains its crispness, adding a refreshing crunch. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a family, this recipe delivers a satisfying, balanced meal in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit a variety of dietary needs—just swap the soy sauce for tamari to make it gluten-free!

Ingredients

For the Stir Fry:

• 1 lb flank steak, very thinly sliced against the grain

• 2 Tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil), divided

• 1 lb broccoli florets (about 6 cups)

• 2 tsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

For the Sauce:

• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

• 2 tsp garlic, grated (about 3 cloves)

• ½ cup hot water

• 6 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or gluten-free Tamari)

• 3 Tbsp light brown sugar, packed

• 1½ Tbsp cornstarch

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• 2 Tbsp sesame oil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Start by cooking white rice, so it’s ready when your stir fry is done.

2. Freeze steak for 30 minutes to make slicing easier. Thinly slice against the grain.

3. In a bowl, mix all sauce ingredients until sugar is dissolved. Set aside.

4. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 1 Tbsp oil. Add broccoli and sauté 4–5 minutes, partially covered, until crisp-tender. Remove from pan. (For softer broccoli, add 2 Tbsp water before covering.)

5. Increase heat to high. Add 1 Tbsp oil, then cook steak in a single layer for 2 minutes per side or until just done.

6. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add sauce to beef and simmer 3–4 minutes, until thickened.

7. Return broccoli to the skillet and stir to combine. Add 1–2 Tbsp water if you prefer a thinner sauce.

8. Serve hot over white rice. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 17 minutes

• Cook Time: 13 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Servings: 4

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef for tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.

• Spicy: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce to the stir fry sauce for some heat.

• Low-Carb: Serve the stir fry over cauliflower rice instead of white rice for a lower-carb alternative.

• Different Vegetables: While broccoli is the star here, you can also add other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the stir fry in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make the recipe gluten-free, simply swap the soy sauce with tamari, which is a gluten-free alternative.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use other cuts like sirloin or rib-eye steak, but flank steak is best for its tenderness and flavor when cooked quickly.

Can I freeze this stir fry?

While it’s not recommended to freeze the stir fry with the sauce, you can freeze the cooked beef and broccoli separately. Reheat and add fresh sauce when you’re ready to serve.

How do I slice the flank steak properly?

Freezing the flank steak for about 30 minutes makes it easier to slice thinly. Be sure to cut against the grain for the most tender results.

What if I don’t have sesame oil?

If you don’t have sesame oil, you can substitute it with olive oil or vegetable oil, though the sesame oil gives the dish its signature flavor.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Fresh broccoli is best for this stir fry, but if you use frozen, be sure to thaw and drain it first to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

How can I make the sauce spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a bit of chili garlic sauce to the stir fry sauce to bring some heat to the dish.

Can I make this dish in advance?

While the stir fry is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and chop the steak and vegetables in advance to save time when cooking.

What can I serve with this dish besides rice?

This stir fry pairs well with quinoa, noodles, or even cauliflower rice if you’re looking for a low-carb alternative.

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas for a colorful and flavorful twist.

Conclusion

This Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is the perfect balance of savory, crispy, and tender, making it an ideal meal for any weeknight. With its quick prep and cooking time, you’ll be able to enjoy a satisfying, delicious dinner in no time. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your dietary preferences and what’s available in your kitchen. Whether you make it as is or experiment with variations, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home!

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