Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a classic dish that combines tender slices of beef with crisp, fresh broccoli, all cooked in a flavorful sauce that’s just the right mix of savory and a little sweet. It’s quick to make, packed with protein and veggies, and has that perfect balance of textures—you get the juicy beef and the crunchy broccoli in every bite.
I love making this dish whenever I need a fast and satisfying dinner. The best part is how easy it is to throw together after a busy day. I usually marinate the beef a bit to make it extra tender and then stir-fry everything on high heat—that keeps the broccoli bright green and gives the beef a nice sear. It’s a simple trick that makes a big difference in the flavor and texture.
My favorite way to enjoy Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is over steamed white rice or even noodles if I’m feeling like switching things up. It’s always a hit at the table, and leftovers heat up beautifully for lunch the next day. If you’re looking for a no-fuss meal that’s both comforting and full of flavor, this dish is definitely worth trying out.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Sirloin or flank steak is best for this dish because it’s tender and cooks quickly. Make sure to slice thinly against the grain to keep it soft. If you prefer, you can also use skirt steak or even chicken for a leaner option.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are perfect here because they stay crisp after stir-frying. You can substitute with broccolini or even green beans if broccoli isn’t available.
Oyster Sauce: This adds a great umami flavor. If you don’t have oyster sauce or avoid shellfish, you can use hoisin sauce or more soy sauce with a bit of mushroom sauce for depth.
Soy Sauce & Cornstarch: Soy sauce is key for salty flavor, and cornstarch helps thicken the sauce for that classic stir-fry texture. Use tamari if you want gluten-free soy sauce.
Vegetables: Onion, garlic, ginger, and bell pepper bring freshness and a bit of crunch. Feel free to add other quick-cooking vegetables like snap peas or carrots.
How Can I Make Sure My Beef Stays Tender and Juicy?
The secret to tender beef is in the way you slice and marinate it, plus cooking it quickly at high heat:
- Slice thinly against the grain: This means cutting perpendicular to the lines in the meat, which shortens muscle fibers and makes it easier to chew.
- Marinate with cornstarch and sauces: The cornstarch coats the beef and locks in moisture during cooking.
- Cook in batches if needed: Avoid overcrowding the pan so the beef sears instead of steams.
- High heat and quick cooking: Stir-fry the beef quickly, about 2-3 minutes, until browned but not overcooked.
This method ensures you get juicy, tender slices that mix perfectly with crisp veggies and thick sauce.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Wok or large skillet – Ideal for quick, even cooking over high heat and gives that signature stir-fry flavor.
- Sharp chef’s knife – Makes slicing beef thin and cutting vegetables easy and safe.
- Cutting board – Keeps your workspace clean and organized while you prep ingredients.
- Mixing bowls – Perfect for marinating beef and mixing your stir fry sauce without mess.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – Helps stir ingredients without scratching your pan.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap beef for thinly sliced chicken breast or tofu for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- Add sliced mushrooms for extra umami and texture that pairs well with the sauce.
- Include a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of chili garlic sauce for a spicy kick.
- Mix in snap peas or baby corn for added crunch and fresh flavor.
Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 large onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 3 green onions, sliced (white and green parts separated)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for more flavor)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
For the Marinade:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp sugar (optional)
For the Stir Fry Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 2 tbsp water or beef broth
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Time You’ll Need
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of active prep and cooking time. Set aside 15 minutes beforehand for marinating the beef, making the total time around 25 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Beef:
Start by combining the beef slices with all the marinade ingredients in a bowl. Mix well so every piece gets coated. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to tenderize and soak up the flavors.
2. Prepare the Stir Fry Sauce:
In a separate small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, water or broth, cornstarch, brown sugar or honey, and black pepper. Stir it until the cornstarch and sugar dissolve completely. Set this aside for later.
3. Cook the Broccoli:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and stir fry for about 3 to 4 minutes until they turn bright green and are just tender but still crunchy. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set aside.
4. Cook the Beef:
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the pan. Spread the marinated beef evenly in the pan and stir fry for about 2 to 3 minutes, until the beef is browned and nearly cooked through.
5. Add the Vegetables:
Into the pan with the beef, add the chopped onions, red bell pepper, garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the green onions. Stir fry everything together for 2 to 3 minutes, until the vegetables soften but still keep a bit of crunch.
6. Combine and Finish:
Return the broccoli to the pan. Give the prepared stir fry sauce a quick stir (the cornstarch may settle). Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables. Stir everything well and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and all the ingredients are nicely coated.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Turn off the heat and sprinkle the green parts of the green onions and sesame seeds on top for garnish. Serve your flavorful stir fry hot, ideally over steamed white rice or noodles.
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Stir Fry?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before cooking. This helps prevent the stir fry from becoming soggy.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Substitute Another Vegetable for Broccoli?
Absolutely! Snap peas, green beans, or bok choy are tasty alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time to keep them crisp yet tender.
What’s the Best Way to Slice the Beef?
Slice the beef thinly against the grain to keep it tender and easy to chew. Partially freezing the beef for about 30 minutes before slicing can make this easier.