Savory Chinese-Style Beef and Onion Stir-Fry

Chinese-Style Beef and Onion Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender beef, sweet onions, and a savory sauce. With its rich umami flavors and a touch of sesame, this stir-fry is perfect for a fast, homemade meal that tastes just like takeout.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Authentic Flavors – A rich combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil creates a deliciously savory taste.
• Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a balanced meal when served with rice or noodles.
• Customizable – Easily adjust the spice level or add more vegetables to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• ¼ cup beef broth (low-sodium)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• Green onions, sliced, for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Marinate the Beef – In a medium bowl, toss the sliced beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes to tenderize and enhance the flavor.
2. Cook the Beef – Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables – In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced onions, bell pepper, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
4. Combine & Simmer – Return the beef to the skillet, then add the oyster sauce, sesame oil, and beef broth. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the beef is fully cooked and the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Garnish & Serve – Sprinkle with sliced green onions and serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of chili paste for a spicier version.
• Extra Veggies – Include mushrooms, broccoli, or snap peas for more texture and nutrients.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use tamari instead of soy sauce and a gluten-free oyster sauce.
• Low-Carb Alternative – Serve with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, adding a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can make the beef tough.

FAQs

What cut of beef is best for stir-fry?

Flank steak or sirloin works best, as they remain tender when sliced thinly and cooked quickly.

How do I make the beef extra tender?

Marinating with cornstarch and soy sauce helps tenderize the beef, a technique known as “velveting.”

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! Thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs work well as a substitute.

Is this dish spicy?

No, but you can add chili flakes or Sriracha if you prefer a bit of heat.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can marinate the beef and prep the vegetables a day ahead, making cooking even faster.

What can I serve with this stir-fry?

Steamed white rice, jasmine rice, fried rice, or stir-fried noodles are all great options.

Can I use frozen beef?

Yes, but let it thaw completely and pat it dry before slicing and marinating.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the beef with tofu or mushrooms for a plant-based version.

Why is my stir-fry watery?

Too much liquid from the vegetables or not cooking on high heat can cause excess moisture. Make sure to stir-fry over high heat.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can make the beef steam instead of sear.

Conclusion

Savory Chinese-Style Beef and Onion Stir-Fry is a delicious and quick meal that’s packed with flavor. Whether served over rice or noodles, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Try it for your next weeknight dinner, and enjoy a homemade takeout-style meal in no time!

Savory Chinese-Style Beef and Onion Stir-Fry

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews

• Author: Emma
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stir-Fry
• Cuisine: Chinese
• Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

---

Description

This Chinese-Style Beef and Onion Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender beef, sweet onions, and a savory sauce. With a rich combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, this easy stir-fry is perfect for a homemade takeout-style meal in just 25 minutes!

---

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• ¼ cup beef broth (low-sodium)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

• Marinate the Beef – In a medium bowl, toss the sliced beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes to tenderize the meat.
• Cook the Beef – Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
• Sauté the Vegetables – In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Stir-fry the onions, bell pepper, garlic, and ginger for about 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp.
• Combine & Simmer – Return the beef to the skillet, then add the oyster sauce, sesame oil, and beef broth. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the beef is fully cooked and the sauce thickens slightly.
• Garnish & Serve – Sprinkle with sliced green onions and serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

---

Notes

• Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of chili paste for extra heat.
• More Veggies – Try mushrooms, broccoli, or snap peas for added texture.
• Gluten-Free Option – Swap soy sauce for tamari and use a gluten-free oyster sauce.
• Low-Carb Alternative – Serve with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
• Tender Beef Tip – Marinating with cornstarch helps keep the beef soft and juicy.