If you’re craving a quick, flavorful dinner that tastes like your favorite takeout—but better—The Best Easy Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry delivers every time. Tender strips of beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and a savory-sweet sauce come together in one pan for a satisfying meal that’s fast, affordable, and packed with flavor.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and is easily customizable to suit your taste, making it a dependable staple in your dinner rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Beef and Broccoli
Ready in about 30 minutes
Tender beef coated in a glossy, flavorful sauce
Crisp broccoli with perfect bite
One-pan meal with minimal cleanup
It’s everything you love about beef and broccoli—simple, comforting, and delicious.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons cornstarch, divided
½ cup water, plus 2 tablespoons water, divided
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 lb boneless round steak or chuck steak, cut into thin 3-inch strips
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
4 cups broccoli florets
1 small onion, cut into wedges
⅓ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground ginger
Hot cooked rice, for serving
Toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Directions
Prepare the beef
In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 2 tablespoons water, and garlic powder until smooth. Add beef and toss to coat.Cook the beef
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Stir-fry beef until desired doneness. Remove and keep warm.Cook vegetables
Add remaining oil to the pan. Stir-fry onion for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add broccoli and cook 3 minutes, until tender-crisp.Return beef
Add the cooked beef back to the pan with the vegetables.Make the sauce
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, remaining 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and ½ cup water until smooth.Thicken and finish
Add sauce to the pan and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes until thickened and glossy.Serve
Serve hot over rice and garnish with toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
Tips for Perfect Beef and Broccoli
Slice beef against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Keep the pan hot to achieve a good sear.
Do not overcook broccoli—it should stay bright green and crisp.
Use reduced-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels.
Serving Suggestions
Serve over steamed white rice, jasmine rice, or brown rice. This dish also pairs well with noodles or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What cut of beef works best?
Boneless round steak or chuck steak sliced thin works best for tenderness.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes. Thaw and drain well before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How do I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a splash of chili garlic sauce.
The Best Easy Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes
Servings
4 Servings
Ingredients
3 tablespoons cornstarch, divided
½ cup water + 2 tablespoons water, divided
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 lb beef, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
4 cups broccoli florets
1 small onion, wedged
⅓ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground ginger
Rice, for serving
Sesame seeds (optional)
Important Information
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)
Nutrition values vary depending on portion size and ingredients used. This information is approximate and not intended as medical advice.
