aChinese Beef and Broccoli is a classic dish that delivers a satisfying combination of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a flavorful, savory sauce. It’s an easy-to-make, one-pan meal that tastes just like your favorite take-out, but can be enjoyed from the comfort of your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something delicious and satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen. It comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze, and the combination of savory, slightly sweet sauce with tender beef and crunchy broccoli is irresistible. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to take-out since you control the ingredients, making it a better choice for your family.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, and beef broth. Set aside.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water until smooth. Set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef and cook until browned on both sides, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
- In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed, then add the garlic and ginger. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it starts to soften.
- Pour the sauce mixture into the pan and bring it to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to thicken the sauce. Stir well and let it simmer for another minute until the sauce is thickened.
- Return the beef to the pan and stir to coat it with the sauce and broccoli. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Drizzle the sesame oil over the top and give it one last stir.
- Serve immediately, optionally garnished with crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Add more vegetables: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots to the stir-fry for extra flavor and color.
- Use different protein: Swap the beef for chicken, pork, or tofu if you prefer a different protein.
- Spicy option: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or chili paste to the sauce if you like it spicy.
- Gluten-free option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the beef and broccoli in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen up the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or skirt steak, but flank steak is ideal for its tenderness and flavor.
2. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
While fresh broccoli works best for texture, you can use frozen broccoli if necessary. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the pan.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chili paste to the sauce.
4. Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can easily swap beef for chicken breast or thighs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as chicken will need slightly longer to cook through.
5. What can I serve this with?
This dish is perfect with steamed rice or noodles. You could also serve it with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
6. Can I freeze the leftovers?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the texture of the broccoli might change upon reheating.
7. How do I prevent the beef from being tough?
Slicing the beef against the grain and cooking it quickly over high heat will help keep it tender. Don’t overcook it.
8. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the sauce and slice the beef in advance, but it’s best to cook everything fresh for the best texture and flavor.
9. Can I make the sauce without hoisin sauce?
Yes, if you don’t have hoisin sauce, you can substitute it with a mixture of soy sauce, peanut butter, and a touch of honey.
10. Is this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and make sure your oyster sauce is gluten-free.
Conclusion
This Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe is a simple yet flavorful take on the classic take-out dish. With tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce, it’s a great meal to prepare when you want something quick, satisfying, and full of flavor. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a comforting dinner or make it ahead for easy leftovers, this one-pan meal has you covered. Try it tonight, and you’ll see why it’s bound to become a family favorite!
Print
Chinese Beef and Broccoli (One Pan Take-Out)
- Author: Emma
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-fry
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe brings the authentic taste of take-out into your home. With tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce made of soy, oyster sauce, hoisin, and more, it’s an easy, one-pan dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Customize it with spicy or gluten-free options, and enjoy a delicious, healthier alternative to restaurant take-out.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, and beef broth. Set aside.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk cornstarch and water until smooth. Set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add sliced beef and cook until browned, 2-3 minutes. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
- In the same pan, add more oil if needed, then sauté garlic and ginger for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add broccoli and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it starts to soften.
- Pour the sauce mixture into the pan and bring to a simmer, cooking for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce and cook for another minute.
- Return the beef to the pan, stirring to coat with sauce and broccoli. Cook for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
- Drizzle sesame oil over the top and stir well.
- Serve immediately, optionally garnished with crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots.
- For a spicy version, add sriracha or chili paste to the sauce.
- To make it gluten-free, swap soy sauce with tamari.
- Use other proteins like chicken, pork, or tofu as an alternative to beef.
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