Craving that rich, savory, and saucy flavor of your favorite Chinese beef and broccoli takeout dish? You’re in luck. This homemade version is better than takeout—tender beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and a bold, garlicky sauce come together in a single pan for a fast and satisfying meal.
This classic stir-fry is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. Whether you’re cooking for two or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe delivers bold flavor and restaurant-quality results with everyday ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes
- Flavor-packed: Rich, savory sauce with notes of garlic, soy, and ginger
- Healthier than takeout: Less oil, less sodium, and no MSG
- One-pan meal: Minimal cleanup and maximum convenience
- Customizable: Add veggies, spice, or serve with your grain of choice
Ingredients for Chinese Beef and Broccoli
For the Beef Marinade:
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ½ tablespoon sesame oil
For the Sauce:
- ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ⅓ cup beef broth or water
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Stir Fry:
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or sesame)
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Cooked rice, for serving
How to Make Chinese Beef and Broccoli
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef, soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes while you prepare the sauce and broccoli.
Marinating in cornstarch and soy helps tenderize the beef and create that silky texture you get in restaurant stir-fries.
Step 2: Make the Stir-Fry Sauce
In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together:
- Soy sauce
- Beef broth or water
- Oyster sauce
- Brown sugar
- Cornstarch
- Ginger
- Garlic
Set aside. This savory, slightly sweet, garlicky sauce is what gives this dish its signature flavor.
Step 3: Blanch or Steam the Broccoli
Steam the broccoli florets for 2–3 minutes until bright green and just tender. You can do this in the microwave with a splash of water or in a pan on the stove. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Sear the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the marinated beef in a single layer (you may need to cook in batches). Sear for 2–3 minutes on each side until browned and just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 5: Stir-Fry Everything Together
Add the remaining oil to the pan. Toss in the steamed broccoli and cook for 1–2 minutes. Return the beef to the pan and pour in the sauce. Stir everything together and let the sauce bubble and thicken for 2–3 minutes until it coats the beef and broccoli evenly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Serve your beef and broccoli stir fry hot over a bed of steamed white rice, brown rice, or noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.
Tips for the Best Chinese Beef and Broccoli
1. Slice Beef Thinly and Against the Grain
Thin slices cook quickly and remain tender. Always slice against the grain to break down the muscle fibers for maximum tenderness.
2. Use High Heat
Stir-frying works best with high heat to sear the meat and keep the vegetables crisp. A wok is ideal, but a large non-stick or cast iron skillet works too.
3. Don’t Overcook the Broccoli
For that signature crisp-tender bite, steam or blanch the broccoli just until it’s vibrant green and slightly soft, not mushy.
4. Customize the Sauce
Make it spicier with a touch of sriracha, chili flakes, or chili garlic paste. Add extra garlic or ginger for more intensity, or a dash of rice vinegar for tang.
Serving Ideas
Chinese Beef and Broccoli is incredibly versatile. Pair it with:
- Steamed Jasmine or Basmati rice
- Brown rice or quinoa for a healthy option
- Chow mein noodles or lo mein for a twist
- Cauliflower rice for a low-carb version
- Egg rolls or spring rolls as a side
This dish also reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep lunches or dinner leftovers.
Storing and Reheating
To Store:
Cool leftovers completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To Reheat:
Reheat in the microwave or a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Healthy Benefits of Beef and Broccoli
This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s also nutrient-dense:
- Beef provides high-quality protein, iron, and B vitamins
- Broccoli is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants
- Low-carb and high-protein when served without rice or with cauliflower rice
With just the right balance of veggies and protein, it’s a filling, satisfying option for any diet.
Final Thoughts
Chinese Beef and Broccoli is the ultimate homemade takeout dish—easy, flavorful, and ready in minutes. With tender beef, vibrant broccoli, and a deeply savory garlic-ginger sauce, it’s a meal that pleases everyone at the table.
Ditch the delivery and whip up this restaurant-worthy stir-fry from the comfort of your kitchen. Fast, fresh, and full of flavor—it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.
