Name: Easy Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced (Approximately 450 grams); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Salt and pepper, to taste; 4 cups broccoli florets (Approximately 300 grams); 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; ½ cup beef broth or water (Approximately 120 ml); 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Salt and pepper, to taste; Cooked rice, for serving

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a classic takeout favorite that you can whip up in no time, then you’re in for a treat with this Easy Beef and Broccoli recipe. It’s the perfect harmony of tender, savory beef and crisp, vibrant broccoli all coated in a luscious, flavorful sauce that comes together faster than you’d expect. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or looking to impress friends with a fuss-free meal, this dish checks all the boxes—deliciously simple, satisfying, and packed with textures and colors that brighten up your plate and your day.

Easy Beef and Broccoli Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Easy Beef and Broccoli recipe is all about using straightforward, accessible ingredients that pack a serious punch in taste. Each one plays an important role—whether it’s the juicy beef lending richness, the broccoli adding freshness and crunch, or the sauce components bringing a perfect balance of salty, savory, and umami flavors.

Beef sirloin (1 pound): Thinly sliced for quick cooking and tender bites.
Broccoli florets (4 cups): Steamed or blanched to keep their bright green color and slight crunch.
Soy sauce (3 tablespoons): Essential for that classic salty and savory Asian flair.
Oyster sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds a deep, slightly sweet umami richness.
Cornstarch (2 tablespoons): Helps thicken the sauce and coat the beef perfectly.
Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon): For stir-frying with a neutral flavor that lets the other ingredients shine.
Garlic cloves (2, minced): Infuses the dish with fragrant depth and warmth.
Ginger (1 teaspoon, minced): Adds a subtle zing that brightens the flavor profile.
Beef broth (½ cup): Or water, to create a luscious sauce base without overpowering the dish.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Simple seasonings to balance everything perfectly.
Cooked rice (for serving): The ideal base to soak up all that saucy goodness.

How to Make Easy Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

Start by combining your thinly sliced beef sirloin with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, plus a pinch of salt and pepper. This marinade not only seasons the beef but also helps seal in moisture and ensures each piece will have a nicely glazed finish after cooking. Let it sit for about 10 minutes—you’ll notice the beef gets a little silky, which is exactly what you want.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

While the beef is marinating, steam or blanch your broccoli florets for 2 to 3 minutes. This step is key to locking in that gorgeous vibrant color and achieving the perfect tender-crisp texture. Overcooking here would turn the broccoli soggy and dull, so keep a close eye. Once done, set it aside to be added back later with the sauce.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Beef

Heat your vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and spread it out evenly so it sears and browns nicely. Stir-fry for about 3 to 4 minutes until it’s cooked through but still juicy and tender. Then remove the beef from the skillet and keep it warm on the side—this ensures it doesn’t overcook while you finish the dish.

Step 4: Build the Flavor

In the same hot skillet, add minced garlic and ginger, and stir-fry quickly for around 30 seconds. Their aroma will fill your kitchen and provide the backbone flavor notes that make this dish so irresistible.

Step 5: Add Broccoli and Prepare the Sauce

Toss the steamed broccoli back into the skillet with the garlic and ginger. Stir-fry together for about a minute to combine the flavors. Meanwhile, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, beef broth, and the last tablespoon of cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth. Pour this sauce over the broccoli in the skillet and stir well.

Step 6: Combine and Thicken

Return the cooked beef to the skillet and mix everything thoroughly so all pieces are coated in that glossy sauce. Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and cling beautifully to both the beef and broccoli. Give it a final taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve Over Rice

Serve your Easy Beef and Broccoli hot over a bed of steaming cooked rice. The rice soaks up the savory sauce and balances the robust flavors perfectly.

How to Serve Easy Beef and Broccoli

Garnishes

Consider sprinkling some toasted sesame seeds or freshly chopped green onions on top for an extra pop of texture and color. A drizzle of chili oil or a squeeze of fresh lime can also add delightful layers of flavor that elevate the dish even further.

Side Dishes

For a well-rounded meal, pair your Easy Beef and Broccoli with simple sides like steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a wholesome touch. If you want to add more veggies, a light Asian slaw or pickled cucumber salad provides a crisp, refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For an Instagram-worthy presentation, serve the beef and broccoli in individual bowls with neatly sliced edges or bowls lined with banana leaves for an earthy touch. You can also wrap some of the beef and broccoli in warm lettuce cups for a fun, handheld twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Easy Beef and Broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen a bit, making your next meal just as delicious.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers by placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Portioning meals before freezing makes reheating easier and helps maintain the best texture when thawed.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave until hot. Adding a splash of water or broth while reheating can help keep the sauce glossy and prevent the beef from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of beef for this Easy Beef and Broccoli?

Absolutely! While sirloin is tender and quick-cooking, flank or skirt steak can also work well if sliced thinly against the grain. Just be mindful of cooking times to keep the beef tender.

Is there a substitute for oyster sauce?

If you’re avoiding oyster sauce, hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a touch of sugar can be used. Just keep in mind oyster sauce offers a unique umami depth that’s hard to replicate exactly.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce alternatives, like tamari or coconut aminos, to keep the flavors close while avoiding gluten.

How do I keep the broccoli bright green and crisp?

Blanching or steaming the broccoli briefly before stir-frying locks in that vibrant color and texture. Don’t skip this step or cook it too long directly in the pan.

Can I prepare Easy Beef and Broccoli ahead of time?

You can marinate the beef a few hours ahead and prep your broccoli, but it’s best to cook and assemble the dish fresh to enjoy the most vibrant flavors and textures.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the comfort and satisfaction of a homemade Easy Beef and Broccoli. This recipe brings that perfect balance of bold flavors and simple ingredients together in a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a go-to in your kitchen—after all, great food doesn’t have to be complicated to be unforgettable!

Easy Beef and Broccoli Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 20 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

A simple and delicious Easy Beef and Broccoli stir-fry recipe featuring tender beef sirloin and crisp broccoli florets coated in a savory soy and oyster sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner served hot over steamed rice.

Instructions

Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine the sliced beef sirloin with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat the beef evenly. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes to tenderize and absorb flavors.
Prepare the Broccoli: While the beef marinates, steam or blanch the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and are slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
Heat the Oil: Warm 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, getting it hot enough for stir-frying.
Cook the Beef: Add the marinated beef to the hot skillet, spreading it out evenly. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the beef is browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt, infusing the oil with flavor.
Cook Broccoli: Add the steamed broccoli to the skillet and stir-fry for 1 minute, coating the florets in the aromatic oil.
Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 2 tablespoons oyster sauce, ½ cup beef broth, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch until smooth and free of lumps. Pour this mixture over the broccoli and stir well to combine.
Combine Beef and Sauce: Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Stir everything together to ensure the beef and broccoli are well coated with the thickening sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the sauce has thickened and clings nicely.
Season and Adjust: Taste the dish and add salt and pepper as needed for final seasoning adjustments.
Serve: Serve the beef and broccoli hot over freshly cooked rice for a complete meal.

Notes

For a gluten-free option, substitute soy sauce and oyster sauce with gluten-free versions.
Use flank steak or ribeye instead of sirloin for different texture and flavor.
Do not overcook the broccoli to maintain its bright color and crunch.
Marinating the beef helps tenderize it and enhance flavor.
Adjust cornstarch quantity if you prefer a thicker or thinner sauce.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stir-fry
Cuisine: Chinese