Name: Best Beef Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced; 4 cups fresh broccoli florets; 3 tbsp soy sauce (divided); 2 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 2 tsp cornstarch (plus more for beef); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced; 1 tsp sesame oil; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 1/4 cup water or beef broth; Cooked white rice, for serving (optional)

This beef broccoli recipe is my go-to for a quick, satisfying stir-fry that’s bursting with flavor. The tender slices of beef and crisp-tender broccoli come together in a savory sauce that clings to every bite. Whether I’m cooking for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fast, flavorful, and better than takeout. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but special enough to serve guests. The sauce is rich, garlicky, and slightly sweet—perfectly balancing the umami flavors of the beef and the crunch of the broccoli. Plus, I can whip it up with ingredients I usually already have on hand.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
Fresh broccoli florets
Soy sauce
Oyster sauce
Brown sugar
Cornstarch
Garlic, minced
Fresh ginger, minced
Sesame oil
Vegetable oil
Water or beef broth
Cooked white rice, for serving (optional)

Directions

I start by mixing the beef slices with a bit of soy sauce and cornstarch. This helps tenderize the meat and gives it that classic velvety texture.
While the beef marinates briefly, I blanch the broccoli in boiling water for about 2 minutes, then transfer it to cold water to keep it crisp and bright green.
In a small bowl, I whisk together the sauce ingredients—soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, water or broth, and a little cornstarch.
I heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat and cook the beef until it's browned and just cooked through. Then I remove it from the pan.
In the same pan, I sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant, pour in the sauce mixture, and let it simmer until it thickens slightly.
I add the beef and broccoli back into the pan and toss everything together until it's evenly coated in the sauce.
I finish with a drizzle of sesame oil and serve hot, usually over rice.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
It takes approximately 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, so dinner is ready in just 25 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add sliced carrots or bell peppers for more color and crunch.
For a spicier version, I stir in some red pepper flakes or a dash of chili garlic sauce.
If I want a low-carb option, I serve it over cauliflower rice instead of white rice.
I also like swapping beef for chicken or tofu when I want to switch things up.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, I usually use the stovetop over medium heat to preserve the texture, but the microwave works fine too—just about 1-2 minutes until heated through.
I avoid freezing it because the broccoli can become mushy.

FAQs

What cut of beef is best for beef and broccoli?

I prefer flank steak or sirloin because they cook quickly and stay tender when sliced thinly against the grain.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, I’ve used frozen broccoli in a pinch. I just make sure to thaw and pat it dry before adding it to the stir-fry so it doesn’t get watery.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be if I use gluten-free soy sauce and check that the oyster sauce is also gluten-free.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I sometimes prep the beef and sauce a day ahead and cook everything fresh when ready to eat. That way, it tastes freshly made and saves time.

What can I serve with beef and broccoli?

I usually serve it with steamed white rice, but it also goes great with noodles or even quinoa for a twist.

Conclusion

Beef broccoli is one of my all-time favorite stir-fry dishes—quick, customizable, and packed with bold flavors. It’s the kind of recipe I rely on when I want something comforting but easy. Once I started making it at home, takeout just couldn’t compare.