Easy Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry: A Quick and Flavorful Dinner

A Classic Takeout Favorite Made at Home

There’s something special about a beef and broccoli stir fry—tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a rich, savory sauce all come together in minutes. Whether you’re craving takeout or looking for an easy homemade meal, this dish delivers big flavors with minimal effort.

You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques to make this easy beef and broccoli stir fry. With just a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s healthier, budget-friendly, and customizable—perfect for busy weeknights!

Ingredients for Easy Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients for a smooth and stress-free experience.

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
London broil steak	1 lb, thinly sliced	Provides a tender and flavorful protein base
Olive oil or vegetable oil	2 tbsp	Helps sear the beef and sauté the broccoli
Broccoli	1 lb (6 cups florets)	Adds freshness, color, and crunch
Sesame seeds (optional)	2 tsp	A garnish for extra texture and flavor

For the Sauce

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Hot water	½ cup	Helps dissolve the sauce ingredients
Low sodium soy sauce (or Tamari/coconut aminos)	6 tbsp	Provides the salty, umami base
Sesame oil	2 tbsp	Adds deep, nutty flavor
Light brown sugar	2 tbsp, packed	Balances the salty and savory elements
Cornstarch	1 ½ tbsp	Thickens the sauce for a glossy finish
Garlic	4 cloves, minced	Enhances flavor with a savory punch
Ginger paste or fresh ginger	2 tsp	Adds warmth and spice
Black pepper	½ tsp	Enhances depth of flavor

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Easy Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

1. Prepare the Beef

• Slice the London broil steak into thin strips, about ¼ inch thick. Cutting against the grain ensures the beef stays tender.
• Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps with browning.

2. Make the Sauce

• In a small bowl, whisk together hot water, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, cornstarch, garlic, ginger, and black pepper.
• Stir well until the cornstarch dissolves completely. Set aside.

3. Cook the Beef

• Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Add the sliced beef in a single layer and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned.
• Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.

4. Stir-Fry the Broccoli

• Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the pan.
• Toss in the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until they turn bright green and slightly tender but still crisp.

5. Combine Everything

• Return the seared beef to the pan.
• Pour in the prepared sauce and stir everything together.
• Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and broccoli.

6. Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle with sesame seeds for an extra layer of texture.
• Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or on its own.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Better Than Takeout – Fresher ingredients, less oil, and no added preservatives.
• Customizable – Adjust the seasoning, swap the veggies, or add your favorite protein.
• Healthy & Nutritious – Loaded with lean protein, fiber-rich broccoli, and healthy fats.
• One-Pan Meal – Fewer dishes, more convenience!

Tips for the Best Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

• Use fresh broccoli – Frozen broccoli can release excess moisture and make the dish soggy.
• Slice the beef thinly – This ensures quick cooking and maximum tenderness.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan – Cook the beef in batches if necessary to achieve a good sear.
• Let the sauce thicken – Simmer for a few minutes to create a rich, glossy coating.
• Marinate for extra flavor – If you have time, let the beef sit in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce for 15 minutes before cooking.

Delicious Variations to Try

1. Spicy Beef and Broccoli

• Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or 1 teaspoon sriracha for a fiery kick.

2. Garlic Butter Beef and Broccoli

• Stir in 1 tablespoon of butter at the end for a richer, more indulgent sauce.

3. Honey-Ginger Beef and Broccoli

• Replace brown sugar with 1 tablespoon of honey for a subtle sweetness.

4. Low-Carb & Keto Beef and Broccoli

• Swap cornstarch for xanthan gum and serve with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.

5. Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli

• Use teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce for a sweeter, more complex flavor.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (Based on 4 servings)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~320 kcal
Protein	32 g
Fat	14 g
Carbohydrates	18 g
Fiber	4 g
Sugar	6 g

(Values may vary depending on exact ingredients used.)

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Beef and Broccoli

• Steamed White or Brown Rice – A classic pairing.
• Garlic Fried Rice – Adds extra flavor and crunch.
• Chow Mein or Lo Mein Noodles – For a restaurant-style experience.
• Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative.
• Egg Drop Soup – Light and comforting.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes! Try flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye for equally delicious results.

2. Can I make this stir fry ahead of time?

Yes! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

3. Can I freeze beef and broccoli stir fry?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

4. How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free Tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

5. What if I don’t have fresh ginger?

Use ½ teaspoon ground ginger as a substitute.

6. Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Try bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, or mushrooms for extra color and flavor.

Final Thoughts: Try This Easy Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Tonight!

This easy beef and broccoli stir fry is the perfect weeknight meal—fast, flavorful, and healthier than takeout. With simple ingredients and a delicious homemade sauce, you can whip up a satisfying dinner in no time.

Now it’s your turn! Grab your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and enjoy a homemade stir fry that everyone will love.

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