🥡 Chinese Beef and Broccoli – Tender Beef, Crisp Broccoli, and Bold Stir-Fry Sauce

Craving takeout but want something fresher and faster from your own kitchen? This Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a classic stir-fry favorite that you can whip up in under 30 minutes. With tender slices of beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and a rich, savory garlic-ginger sauce, it hits all the right notes—umami-packed, slightly sweet, and perfectly satisfying. This dish is a go-to for good reason: it’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and pairs beautifully with rice or noodles. Whether you’re meal prepping, cooking for family, or feeding a crowd, this homemade version tastes even better than restaurant takeout—and it’s healthier too.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Servings: 2

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Beef Marinade:
1 lb flank steak or sirloin thinly sliced against the grain
1 Tbsp soy sauce
1 Tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp sesame oil optional
For the Stir-Fry Sauce:
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 Tbsp oyster sauce
1 Tbsp hoisin sauce
1 Tbsp cornstarch
1 Tbsp brown sugar
3 cloves garlic minced
1 tsp fresh ginger grated
½ cup beef broth or water
1 tsp sesame oil optional
For the Stir-Fry:
2 Tbsp vegetable oil or avocado oil
4 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen
Cooked white or jasmine rice for serving
Optional: sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish

Equipment

Large skillet or wok
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Measuring spoons and cups
Tongs or spatula
Optional: rice cooker or pot for rice

Method

Marinate the Beef
Slice beef thinly across the grain.
In a bowl, mix with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Let sit for 10–15 minutes while prepping the sauce and broccoli.
Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin, cornstarch, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and broth. Set aside.
Cook the Broccoli
In a wok or skillet, heat 1 Tbsp oil over medium-high heat.
Add broccoli and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes (or 4–5 minutes if using frozen) until bright green and slightly tender.
Remove and set aside.
Stir-Fry the Beef
Add remaining oil to the same pan.
Add beef in a single layer. Let sear for 1–2 minutes, then stir-fry until browned (about 3–4 minutes total).
Combine & Sauce
Return broccoli to the pan.
Pour in the stir-fry sauce and toss to coat.
Simmer for 1–2 minutes until sauce thickens and everything is coated evenly.
Serve
Spoon over rice or noodles.
Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Freeze cooled stir-fry (without rice) for up to 2 months.

Reheat: Microwave or stir-fry in a hot pan until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if sauce thickens too much.

🥄 Variations

Spicy Kick: Add 1–2 tsp sriracha or crushed red pepper to the sauce.

Low-Carb Version: Serve over cauliflower rice or stir-fried veggies.

Add Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas with the broccoli.

Swap the Protein: Use chicken, tofu, or shrimp instead of beef.

Thicker Sauce: Add an extra ½ Tbsp cornstarch to the sauce mixture.

❓ 10 FAQs

What’s the best cut of beef for stir-fry?
Flank steak or sirloin works best. Slice it thin and against the grain for tenderness.

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just thaw slightly and increase cooking time by 1–2 minutes.

Is oyster sauce necessary?
It adds depth and richness, but you can substitute with extra soy sauce or hoisin.

How do I keep the beef tender?
Slice it thin, marinate briefly with cornstarch, and avoid overcooking.

Can I meal prep this?
Yes—it reheats well and keeps for several days in the fridge.

How do I thicken the sauce?
The cornstarch in the sauce does that once simmered. Simmer 1–2 extra minutes if needed.

Is this dish gluten-free?
Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce and check that your oyster sauce is GF-certified.

What oil is best for stir-frying?
Use a neutral, high-heat oil like vegetable, avocado, or canola oil.

Can I make this in advance?
Yes—store the cooked components separately and reheat just before serving.

What rice pairs best with this?
Jasmine or white rice is traditional, but brown rice or noodles work great too.

🏁 Conclusion

Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a flavor-packed, quick stir-fry that delivers restaurant-style taste with homemade ingredients. With tender beef, crisp veggies, and a savory garlic-soy sauce, it’s a dish the whole family will love—and it’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Add it to your weeknight rotation, meal prep menu, or anytime you’re craving something bold, fresh, and satisfying.