Beef and Broccoli (Tender, Flavorful, Best Ever)

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Beef and broccoli with tender beef and broccoli in savory sauce

** A bowl of beef and broccoli with tender beef slices and crisp broccoli, drizzled with a savory sauce.

Beef and broccoli is a classic Chinese-American dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to make. With tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce, it’s the perfect meal for any night of the week.

Introduction

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This beef and broccoli recipe is a quick and delicious way to make take-out-style Chinese food at home. The beef is tender and flavorful, and the broccoli adds a nice crunch. The savory sauce brings it all together for a satisfying meal.

You can serve this with steamed rice or noodles for a complete dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Beef and Broccoli

  • Tender beef: Sliced thin for quick cooking and maximum flavor.
  • Simple ingredients: Just a few pantry staples create a rich and savory sauce.
  • Quick and easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes.
  • Healthy: Packed with protein and vegetables.
  • Customizable: Add more veggies or swap the beef for chicken.

Ingredients for Beef and Broccoli

Ingredients for beef and broccoli including flank steak, broccoli, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic
The fresh ingredients for beef and broccoli beef, broccoli, soy sauce, and spices

Ingredients:

  • Flank steak (1 lb, thinly sliced): The main protein for the dish.
  • Broccoli (3 cups, chopped): For crunch and color.
  • Soy sauce (1/4 cup): For saltiness and umami flavor.
  • Brown sugar (2 tablespoons): Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the saltiness.
  • Garlic (2 cloves, minced): For depth of flavor.
  • Ginger (1 tablespoon, grated): Adds a bit of heat and spice.
  • Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): To thicken the sauce.
  • Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing.
  • Water (1/4 cup): To help form the sauce.

Beef and Broccoli Recipe Step-by-Step

Four-panel collage showing steps to make beef and broccoli, from slicing beef to serving the finished dish
Slice, sauté, cook, and serve beef and broccoli in a savory sauce

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Servings: 4

  • 1. Prepare the beef. Slice the flank steak thinly across the grain into strips.
  • 2. Cook the beef. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook for 3–4 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan.
  • 3. Cook the broccoli. In the same pan, sauté minced garlic and grated ginger for 1 minute. Add the broccoli and cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender.
  • 4. Make the sauce. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, water, and cornstarch. Pour the sauce into the pan with the broccoli and cook for another 2–3 minutes until thickened.
  • 5. Combine. Add the cooked beef back into the pan and stir to coat in the sauce. Cook for 2 minutes until everything is well combined.
  • 6. Serve. Serve the beef and broccoli over rice or noodles.

Reader Review: “This is my go-to weeknight dinner! It’s quick, easy, and always delicious.”

Tips for Perfect Beef and Broccoli

  • Slice the beef thinly: Thin slices cook quickly and absorb more flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the broccoli: Cook until tender-crisp to keep its texture and color.
  • Adjust the sweetness: Add more sugar if you prefer a sweeter sauce.

Variations & Substitutions

  • Use chicken: Swap the beef for chicken for a different protein.
  • Add more veggies: Try adding bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for more variety.

Storing & Reheating

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

  • Serve with steamed rice or noodles.
  • Pair with a side of steamed dumplings or spring rolls.

If you make this beef and broccoli, leave a rating and comment! How did you like it?

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