Easy Chinese Beef And Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
I know you’re busy, and the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen.
That’s why I love this Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry—it’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
If you’re craving takeout but want something homemade, this is it. I promise, once you try this one, you won’t need to order from your favorite Chinese restaurant as often.
I still remember the first time I made this recipe. I was tired, hungry, and looking for something fast. I threw together some beef, broccoli, and a few simple ingredients, and in less than 20 minutes, dinner was ready.
One bite, and I was hooked. The beef was tender, the broccoli had the perfect crunch, and the sauce? Oh, the sauce—savory, slightly sweet, with just the right amount of garlic and ginger.
And here’s the best part of this: you don’t need fancy ingredients or skills to make it. If you can slice beef and stir a pan, you’re good to go.
On top of that, you get to control exactly what goes into it—no mystery sauces or extra oil like in takeout. Just fresh, simple ingredients that taste amazing together.
So, grab your pan, and let’s make this one together. I promise it’ll be a go-to in your kitchen after just one bite. Ready? Let’s do this!
What Is This Recipe, and Why Is It Awesome?
Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick and easy dish made with tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a rich, savory sauce.
It’s a takeout favorite, but when you make it at home, it’s even better—fresher, healthier, and packed with bold flavors.
Why should you make this recipe? Let me convince you:
- It’s ready in 20 minutes. Yes, really. This is a perfect weeknight meal when you need something fast but don’t want to settle for bland or boring.
- Tastes like takeout—but better. Juicy beef, crunchy broccoli, and a garlicky, umami-packed sauce? That’s a winning combo.
- Healthier than restaurant versions. No extra oil, no hidden ingredients—just simple, real food.
- Super easy to make. No complicated steps or fancy skills needed. If you can stir a pan, you can make this.
- Budget-friendly. Skip the pricey takeout bill and make a restaurant-quality meal at home with just a few ingredients.
This is the kind of dish that makes you feel like a pro in the kitchen without all the effort. Once you make it, I guarantee it’ll become one of your go-to meals. Ready to cook? Let’s do it!
Ingredients for Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
For the Beef & Broccoli:
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain (sub: skirt steak or ribeye for extra tenderness)
- 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh is best, but frozen works too—just thaw and drain well)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or swap for avocado or peanut oil for a slightly nutty flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (or ½ teaspoon ground ginger in a pinch)
For the Sauce:
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce (regular soy sauce works, but low-sodium gives better balance)
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (adds rich umami—can be replaced with hoisin sauce for a sweeter twist)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (helps thicken the sauce—arrowroot powder works as a sub)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or honey for a natural sweetness)
- ½ cup beef broth or water (for a richer sauce, use broth)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (adds deep, nutty flavor—skip if unavailable)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) (for a little heat!)
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice, brown rice, or noodles
- Sesame seeds & sliced green onions (optional garnish)
Got everything? Let’s cook! 🚀
How to Make Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Step 1: Prep Like a Pro
- Slice the beef thinly against the grain—this keeps it tender, not chewy. (Think of it like cutting a ribbon, not a rope!)
- In a small bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients. Set it aside and try not to drink it—it smells amazing.
- If you’re using fresh broccoli, chop it into bite-sized florets. If using frozen, make sure it’s thawed and well-drained.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef in a single layer and let it sear for about 1-2 minutes before stirring. (This gives it that restaurant-style caramelization!)
- Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until just cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
- Add another tablespoon of oil to the same pan.
- Toss in the broccoli, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender. (Still want a little crunch? Perfect!)
- If needed, add a splash of water to help steam and soften the broccoli.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
- Give your sauce a quick stir (cornstarch can settle).
- Pour it into the pan and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until it thickens. (Patience, my friend—it’s worth it!)
- Add the beef back in and toss everything together until coated in that glossy, mouthwatering sauce.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Spoon over steamed rice or noodles.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions if you’re feeling fancy.
- Grab your chopsticks (or a fork—no judgment) and dig in!
That’s it! 20 minutes, one pan, and a meal that beats takeout any day. 🍜
How to Cook Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps, and you’ll have a takeout-worthy meal in just 20 minutes!
Step 1: Prep Everything First (Trust me, this makes cooking stress-free!)
Slice the beef into thin strips against the grain for ultimate tenderness. (Think short fibers = soft, melt-in-your-mouth bites!)
Whisk the sauce together in a bowl—soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, broth, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Chop the broccoli into small, even florets. If using frozen, make sure it’s thawed and drained well.
Mince the garlic and grate the ginger so they’re ready to go.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the beef in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for 1-2 minutes to get a nice sear.
Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until the beef is just cooked through. Remove it from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
Add another tablespoon of oil to the same pan.
Toss in the broccoli, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender.
If needed, add a splash of water (about 2 tablespoons) to steam the broccoli and help it soften.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Give your sauce a quick stir (cornstarch settles at the bottom!).
Pour it into the pan and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until it thickens. (You’ll see it turn into a glossy, delicious sauce!)
Add the beef back into the pan and toss everything together until it’s well coated.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
Spoon it over steamed rice or noodles.
Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if you want extra flavor.
Grab your chopsticks (or a fork—no judgment) and enjoy every bite!
That’s it—quick, simple, and better than takeout!
Calories & Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
Calories: ~350-400 kcal (without rice or noodles)
Protein: ~30g (great for muscle-building and staying full!)
Carbs: ~20g (mostly from the sauce and broccoli)
Fats: ~18g (healthy fats from beef and sesame oil)
Sodium: ~800mg (depends on soy sauce—opt for low-sodium if needed!)
Nutritional Notes:
- High in protein – Perfect for keeping you full and energized.
- Rich in fiber – Broccoli adds fiber for better digestion.
- Lower in carbs – Without rice, this is a solid low-carb meal.
- Can be made healthier – Swap brown sugar for honey, use leaner beef, or serve with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Want fewer calories? Use leaner cuts of beef and less oil. Want more protein? Double the beef or add tofu!
Common Mistakes to Avoid (And How to Fix Them!)
❌ Cutting the beef the wrong way
✔️ Always slice against the grain! Cutting along the muscle fibers makes beef chewy. Think short fibers = tender bites!
❌ Skipping the sauce mix before pouring
✔️ Cornstarch settles at the bottom like a lazy couch potato. Stir it up before adding it to the pan, or you’ll end up with a watery mess.
❌ Overcrowding the pan
✔️ Cook the beef in batches if needed. Too much at once = steaming instead of searing. You want that nice brown crust, not soggy beef!
❌ Overcooking the broccoli
✔️ No one wants mushy broccoli. Keep it bright green with a slight crunch—it’ll cook a little more once the sauce is added.
❌ Forgetting the cornstarch
✔️ This is what makes the sauce thick and glossy. Skip it, and you’ll have beef soup instead of stir-fry. (Still tasty, but not what we’re going for!)
❌ Using the wrong oil
✔️ Olive oil? Nope. Go for a high-smoke-point oil like vegetable, avocado, or peanut oil. Stir-frying needs serious heat!
❌ Not tasting before serving
✔️ Sauce too salty? Add a splash of water or a little more brown sugar. Not enough flavor? A few drops of soy sauce or sesame oil will do the trick!
Follow these tips, and your Beef and Broccoli will taste like a pro made it—every single time!
Variations & Customizations
Spicy Kick Version
Love some heat? Add sriracha, chili flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. Want it extra spicy? Toss in sliced red chilies while stir-frying!
Vegetarian Swap
Ditch the beef and use extra-firm tofu or mushrooms instead. Tofu soaks up the sauce beautifully, and mushrooms give it that umami punch. Just press the tofu first and pan-fry it until golden before adding it back in!
Keto-Friendly Version
Skip the cornstarch and use xanthan gum to thicken the sauce. Serve it over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a low-carb feast!
Chicken & Broccoli Twist
Not a beef fan? Swap it for thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs. Cook it the same way—quick and on high heat!
Extra Veggie Boost
Throw in bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or baby corn for more crunch and color. The more veggies, the better! 🌈
Try one of these twists and make this dish your own!
Serving & Presentation Tips
Step 1: Pick Your Base
- Serve over steamed white rice, brown rice, or noodles for a classic take.
- Want a low-carb option? Go for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles!
Step 2: Plate It Like a Pro
- Use a wide, shallow bowl or plate to spread out the stir-fry (no one likes a messy pile).
- Spoon the beef and broccoli over the rice, letting the sauce drip down—it’s all about that saucy goodness!
Step 3: Garnish for Extra Flavor & Wow Factor
- Sprinkle sesame seeds for a nutty crunch.
- Drizzle a few drops of sesame oil for a rich, toasty finish.
- Chopped green onions add a fresh, bright touch.
Step 4: Serve It Hot!
- Stir-fries taste best when fresh—serve immediately.
- If making ahead, store the beef and broccoli separately from the rice to keep textures just right.
Follow these steps, and your dish will look as amazing as it tastes! 🍽️
How to Serve
Scoop the beef and broccoli onto a plate of steamed rice, noodles, or a low-carb alternative like cauliflower rice.
Make sure to drizzle that rich, savory sauce over the top—because that’s where the magic is! For extra flavor and a touch of crunch, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving. This dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot, straight from the pan to your plate! 🍽️
Presentation Ideas
Restaurant-Style Plating – Use a wide, shallow bowl and neatly layer the beef and broccoli over rice. Let the sauce pool slightly for that glossy, mouthwatering look.
Bento Box Vibes – Serve alongside steamed dumplings or an egg roll, with a small dish of soy sauce or chili oil on the side.
Elegant Touch – Stack the beef slices on one side and broccoli on the other for a clean, balanced look. Drizzle with a little extra sauce and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Family-Style Platter – Serve everything in a large serving bowl, letting everyone scoop their own portions. Pair with a side of miso soup or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete meal.
Takeout-Style Fun – Dish it into a takeout box or meal prep container for an easy grab-and-go meal. Perfect for meal prepping or serving with a fun, casual vibe!
A little extra effort in presentation makes this dish look just as good as it tastes! 🍛
Best Tips for the Perfect Beef & Broccoli
Slice the Beef Thinly – Cut against the grain into thin strips (about ¼ inch thick). This keeps it tender and easy to chew.
Marinate for Extra Flavor – Let the beef sit in the soy sauce mixture for at least 15 minutes. The longer, the better!
Use High Heat – Stir-frying is all about fast cooking. A hot pan = juicy beef and crisp broccoli. Medium heat will only make it soggy!
Blanch the Broccoli First – Quickly boiling it for 30 seconds before stir-frying keeps it bright green and perfectly tender-crisp.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook the beef in small batches to get a nice sear. Overcrowding = steaming instead of stir-frying.
Keep the Sauce Balanced – If it’s too salty, add a pinch of brown sugar. Too thick? A splash of water or broth will fix it.
Stir the Sauce Before Adding – Cornstarch settles at the bottom—give it a good stir so the sauce thickens properly.
Serve Immediately – This dish tastes best fresh! If making ahead, store the beef and sauce separately from the rice.
Follow these tips, and your Beef & Broccoli will turn out flavorful, tender, and absolutely delicious every time! 🍽️
Storage & Freezing Instructions
Let It Cool First – Before storing, allow the beef and broccoli to cool completely to avoid sogginess.
Refrigeration (Up to 4 Days)
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Keep the stir-fry and rice separate to maintain texture.
- Reheat in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave with a splash of water to keep it from drying out.
Freezing (Up to 2 Months)
- Place the beef and broccoli in a freezer-safe container (skip the rice, as it gets mushy when frozen).
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat in a pan with a little broth or water to revive the sauce.
Avoid Freezing Mistakes
- Don’t freeze raw broccoli in the sauce—it turns mushy. Blanch it first!
- No cornstarch in the sauce before freezing—it can get weirdly gummy. Thicken it after reheating instead.
Store it right, and you’ll have a quick, delicious meal ready to go anytime! 🍱
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What cut of beef is best for this recipe?
The best options are flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye because they’re tender and cook quickly. Just be sure to slice against the grain for the best texture! - Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Just thaw it first and pat it dry. Frozen broccoli tends to release more water, so cook it quickly over high heat to avoid sogginess. - How do I make the sauce thicker?
If the sauce isn’t thick enough, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water, then stir it in while cooking. Let it simmer for a minute to thicken up. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best fresh. If prepping ahead, store the beef, broccoli, and sauce separately. Reheat in a pan over medium heat for the best texture. - How do I keep the beef tender?
Slice it thinly against the grain and don’t overcook it. A quick marinade with soy sauce and cornstarch also helps lock in moisture. - Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos and ensure your cornstarch is gluten-free. - Can I add other vegetables?
Of course! Bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, or mushrooms all work great. Just stir-fry them along with the broccoli.
Got more questions? Drop them in the comments, and I’ve got you covered! 😊
Conclusion
And now you’re all set—homemade Beef & Broccoli that’s better than takeout!
Once you taste this, you might start questioning every order you’ve ever placed.
Now it’s your turn! Try it out, put your own spin on it, and let me know how it turns out. Did you go spicy? Add extra veggies? Drop a comment and share your masterpiece!
Just be warned: after making this, your family might “forget” how to order takeout ever again.
Now you may want to try these similar DELICIOUS:
Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Creamy Garlic Sauce
Chinese Beef And Broccoli Recipe
Chinese Beef And Broccoli Stir Fry
Ingredients
- Ingredients for Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
- For the Beef & Broccoli:
- 1 lb 450g flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain (sub: skirt steak or ribeye for extra tenderness)
- 3 cups broccoli florets fresh is best, but frozen works too—just thaw and drain well
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or swap for avocado or peanut oil for a slightly nutty flavor
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated (or ½ teaspoon ground ginger in a pinch)
- For the Sauce:
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce regular soy sauce works, but low-sodium gives better balance
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce adds rich umami—can be replaced with hoisin sauce for a sweeter twist
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch helps thicken the sauce—arrowroot powder works as a sub
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey for a natural sweetness
- ½ cup beef broth or water for a richer sauce, use broth
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil adds deep, nutty flavor—skip if unavailable
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional (for a little heat!)
- For Serving:
- Cooked white rice brown rice, or noodles
- Sesame seeds & sliced green onions optional garnish
Instructions
How to Cook Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry: Step-by-Step Guide
- Follow these steps, and you’ll have a takeout-worthy meal in just 20 minutes!
Step 1: Prep Everything First (Trust me, this makes cooking stress-free!)
- Slice the beef into thin strips against the grain for ultimate tenderness. (Think short fibers = soft, melt-in-your-mouth bites!)
- Whisk the sauce together in a bowl—soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, broth, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Chop the broccoli into small, even florets. If using frozen, make sure it’s thawed and drained well.
- Mince the garlic and grate the ginger so they're ready to go.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for 1-2 minutes to get a nice sear.
- Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until the beef is just cooked through. Remove it from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
- Add another tablespoon of oil to the same pan.
- Toss in the broccoli, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender.
- If needed, add a splash of water (about 2 tablespoons) to steam the broccoli and help it soften.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
- Give your sauce a quick stir (cornstarch settles at the bottom!).
- Pour it into the pan and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until it thickens. (You’ll see it turn into a glossy, delicious sauce!)
- Add the beef back into the pan and toss everything together until it’s well coated.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Spoon it over steamed rice or noodles.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if you want extra flavor.
- Grab your chopsticks (or a fork—no judgment) and enjoy every bite!
Notes
- For extra tender beef, marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Blanching the broccoli keeps it bright green and crisp.
- Want a spicy kick? Add red pepper flakes or Sriracha!
- Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers reheat well.
- Pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles.
