Name: Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced 1/4 inch thick against the grain; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine; 1 tablespoon light soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1/4 teaspoon white pepper; 2 tablespoons water; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 1/2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 2 tablespoons light soy sauce; 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce; 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 lb broccoli, cut into bite-sized pieces; 5 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 tablespoon ginger, minced; 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

When it comes to classic takeout favorites, it’s hard to beat the comforting magic of Beef and Broccoli. Picture this: tender, juicy slices of beef, crisp-tender broccoli, all cloaked in a glossy, restaurant-style sauce that hits every savory note. The best part? You can whip it all up right at home in less time than it takes to wait for delivery. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or planning to impress your loved ones, this Beef and Broccoli recipe brings a crowd-pleasing combo of flavors and textures to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the secrets to truly tasty Beef and Broccoli is starting with simple, quality ingredients. Every component adds something special — from deep umami to subtle crunch — and together, they create a reliable, mouthwatering favorite. Here’s what you’ll need (and why you’ll want every bit).

Flank steak (1 lb, thinly sliced): Marbled just right for quick stir-frying, this cut stays juicy and soaks up all that savory flavor.
Baking soda (1 teaspoon): The tip for ultra-tender beef, it quickly breaks down muscle fibers so your beef remains melt-in-your-mouth soft.
Shaoxing wine (2 tablespoons): This Chinese cooking wine infuses each bite with warmth and complexity — don’t skip it for authenticity.
Light soy sauce (3 tablespoons): Essential for brightness and depth; it forms the salty-savory backbone of the sauce and marinade.
Oyster sauce (2.5 tablespoons): Adds rich umami and a hint of sweetness, creating that unmistakable takeout flavor.
White pepper (1/4 teaspoon): More floral and earthy than black pepper, just a pinch really enhances the balance.
Water (2 tablespoons): Keeps the marinade smooth and helps all the flavors meld with the beef.
Cornstarch (1.5 tablespoons): The trick to a glossy, clingy sauce and a perfect beef texture.
Dark soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Delivers beautiful color and a slightly deeper, rounder soy note.
Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon): A little sweetness keeps the sauce from turning too salty — it’s the balancing act your tastebuds crave.
Low sodium chicken broth (1/2 cup): Adds richness and just the right amount of savory liquid to the stir fry sauce.
Broccoli (1 lb, bite-sized): Truly the co-star here, gives a fresh, crunchy bite and soaks up sauce like a champ.
Garlic (5 cloves, minced): The aromatic you can’t skip; it perfumes the dish and adds crave-worthy savoriness.
Ginger (1/2 tablespoon, minced): Bright, citrusy, and zingy, it wakes up every bite with fresh flavor.
Toasted sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Earthy, nutty aroma rounds out the finish for an authentic taste.

How to Make Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

Start by taking your time with the beef — this is where so much flavor and tenderness begins. In a mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced flank steak with baking soda, Shaoxing wine, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, white pepper, water, and cornstarch. Mix until every ribbon of beef is coated. Let this sit and marinate for at least 15 minutes, or even longer if you have the time, for the most melt-in-your-mouth bites.

Step 2: Prepare the Stir Fry Sauce

In a small bowl, combine oyster sauce, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, chicken broth, and a touch of cornstarch. Mix until smooth. This is the luscious, glossy sauce that makes Beef and Broccoli so addictive. Set aside until you’re ready to stir fry.

Step 3: Blanch the Broccoli

Bring a medium-sized pot of water to a rolling boil, adding a generous pinch of salt. Toss in the bite-sized broccoli florets and cook quickly for 1–2 minutes. The broccoli should turn vivid green and stay crisp-tender. Drain and set aside; this step ensures your veggies keep their color and snap during the stir fry.

Step 4: Sear the Beef

Heat a tablespoon of cooking oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, lay the marinated beef in a single layer. Sear undisturbed for 30 seconds per side so you get those essential browned edges. Remove the beef from the pan — it will finish cooking with the sauce later, keeping it juicy inside.

Step 5: Stir Fry Everything Together

Add another splash of oil to your pan if needed, still on medium-high. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until aromatic (your kitchen will smell wonderful). Return the broccoli and stir fry for about a minute, then add in the beef and pour over your prepared sauce. Toss everything together for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats each ingredient beautifully. A drizzle of sesame oil to finish pulls all the flavors together.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Your Beef and Broccoli is now ready for its grand debut! Spoon it over steaming hot rice, top with freshly diced green onions, and revel in the delicious, saucy perfection you just created in less than 30 minutes.

How to Serve Beef and Broccoli

Garnishes

Brighten up your bowl with a sprinkling of freshly sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds. Both add a final layer of flavor and a subtle crunch, while those little flecks of green make the dish even more eye-catching. A dash of chili flakes is also fantastic for those who like a gentle heat with their Beef and Broccoli.

Side Dishes

While Beef and Broccoli is wonderfully satisfying on its own, pairing it with fluffy steamed jasmine rice or nutty brown rice lets that savory sauce shine. You could also serve it with classic fried rice, delicate lo mein noodles, or even some crispy spring rolls for a festive Asian-inspired meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to elevate the experience? Serve your Beef and Broccoli in individual bowls for a takeout-style feast at home, or plate over a bed of vibrant sautéed greens like bok choy for even more color and nutrients. Leftovers are also amazing in a warm tortilla or wrapped in lettuce cups for an unexpected lunch twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, you can store leftover Beef and Broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to keep any extra sauce as it will absorb into the meat and broccoli, keeping everything deliciously moist for easy reheating.

Freezing

Beef and Broccoli freezes well, though for best texture, keep the broccoli just shy of fully cooked before freezing. Store cooled portions in zipper bags or freezer-safe containers for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Beef and Broccoli gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce seems thick. The microwave works in a pinch, too — use medium power and stir halfway through to keep the meat and broccoli evenly heated and tender.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for Beef and Broccoli?

Absolutely! While flank steak is wonderfully tender and soaks up marinade quickly, you can also use sirloin, skirt steak, or even ribeye for this recipe. Just be sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain to keep each bite tender and juicy.

What if I don’t have Shaoxing wine?

If you can’t find Shaoxing wine, a dry sherry is an excellent substitute for its nutty complexity. You can also use a splash of unseasoned rice vinegar in a pinch, though the flavor will be a bit tangier and less aromatic.

Can I make Beef and Broccoli gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the soy sauces for gluten-free tamari and choose a gluten-free oyster sauce (many brands offer this now). Make sure any broth you use is gluten-free as well, and your Beef and Broccoli will be ready for everyone to enjoy.

How do I keep broccoli crisp in this dish?

Blanching the broccoli just until it’s bright green and still crisp-tender, then draining it before stir-frying, locks in color and crunch. Avoid overcooking when stir frying with the sauce to ensure it stays perfectly textured.

Can I add more vegetables to my Beef and Broccoli?

Definitely! Sliced bell peppers, snap peas, baby corn, or carrots are all delicious additions. Just add them with the broccoli for extra color, crunch, and nutrition without losing that classic Beef and Broccoli appeal.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Beef and Broccoli packs everything you love about your favorite takeout, made even better with fresh ingredients and loads of flavor in every bite. It’s a fantastic recipe to master for busy nights or special occasions, and always sure to make everyone around your table happy. Go ahead, give it a try — you’ll be amazed at just how easy and satisfying it is!