Easy Beef and Broccoli Recipe (Better Than Takeout)

This easy beef and broccoli recipe delivers tender strips of beef, crisp broccoli and a glossy savoury sauce in less time than ordering takeout. Serve it with steamed rice, noodles or cauliflower rice for a fast weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Beef and Broccoli

• Ready in about 25 minutes.
• Uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients.
• Balanced with protein, vegetables and plenty of flavour.
• Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

For the Beef and Broccoli

• 1 lb (450 g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons neutral cooking oil, divided
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 green onions, sliced (optional)
• Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

For the Sauce

• ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• ¼ cup water
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

How to Make Easy Beef and Broccoli

1. Mix the sauce. Whisk the soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, water and red pepper flakes in a small bowl until smooth.
2. Blanch the broccoli. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Cook the broccoli for 1–2 minutes, then drain well. It should be bright green and still crisp.
3. Sear the beef. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Cook the beef in a single layer for 2–3 minutes, working in batches if needed. Transfer it to a plate.
4. Cook the aromatics. Add the remaining oil, then cook the garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Finish the stir fry. Return the beef and broccoli to the pan. Pour in the sauce and toss for 1–2 minutes, until glossy and thickened.
6. Serve. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve immediately with rice or noodles.

Tips for Tender Beef

• Slice the beef very thinly and always cut against the grain.
• Use a very hot skillet so the beef sears instead of steaming.
• Do not overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if necessary.
• For extra-tender beef, toss the slices with 1 teaspoon soy sauce and 1 teaspoon cornstarch before cooking.

Easy Variations

• Add more vegetables: Bell pepper, snow peas, carrots or mushrooms work beautifully.
• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a spoonful of chilli crisp.
• Use chicken: Swap the beef for thinly sliced chicken breast or boneless thighs.
• Make it gluten-free: Use tamari and a gluten-free oyster sauce alternative.

What to Serve with Beef and Broccoli

Steamed jasmine rice is the classic choice. You can also serve this stir fry with brown rice, lo mein noodles, quinoa or cauliflower rice. For a fuller meal, add simple cucumber salad or egg rolls on the side.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water, or microwave until hot throughout. The broccoli is best when freshly cooked, so avoid overcooking it during reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cut of beef is best for beef and broccoli?

Flank steak is a favourite because it cooks quickly and stays tender when sliced thinly against the grain. Sirloin is another great option.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes. Thaw it first and pat it dry. Add it near the end of cooking because frozen broccoli softens more quickly than fresh broccoli.

How do I thicken the sauce?

The cornstarch in the sauce thickens it once it reaches a simmer. If you want it thicker, whisk 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water and stir it in gradually.

Make this better-than-takeout beef and broccoli once, and it will quickly become a regular in your dinner rotation.