Print

Easy 20-Minute Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

beef and broccoli stir fry - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy weeknight dinner that tastes like takeout but is healthier and faster. Tender beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and a savory-sweet sauce come together in just 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound flank steak or sirloin, sliced thin against the grain
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low-sodium if desired)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
  • 1/3 cup soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar (packed)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (unseasoned)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 3 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
  • 3 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Steamed rice or noodles (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prep the beef: Place flank steak in the freezer for 15 minutes to firm up. Slice against the grain into thin strips (about 1/4-inch thick). In a medium bowl, toss beef with 2 tablespoons cornstarch and 1 tablespoon soy sauce until evenly coated. Set aside.
  2. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup soy sauce, 3 tablespoons brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). In a separate tiny bowl, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water to create a slurry. Set both aside.
  3. Blanch the broccoli: Bring a small pot of water to a boil. Add broccoli florets and cook for 1 minute. Drain and immediately rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Pat dry with a paper towel.
  4. Sear the beef: Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat until shimmering. Add beef in a single layer (do not overcrowd). Sear undisturbed for 1 minute, then flip and cook another 1-2 minutes until browned but not fully cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
  5. Stir-fry the broccoli: Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil to the skillet. Add blanched broccoli and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until slightly charred at the edges.
  6. Combine everything: Return beef to the skillet. Stir the sauce (brown sugar settles) and pour over beef and broccoli. Stir-fry for 1 minute. Stir the cornstarch slurry and pour in. Cook for 30-60 seconds until sauce thickens and coats everything in a glossy glaze.
  7. Finish and serve: Remove from heat. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.

Notes

Slice beef against the grain for tenderness. Use high heat for proper searing. Prep all ingredients before starting to cook. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth. If too thin, let simmer another 30 seconds. For best results, partially freeze beef for 15 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef and broccoli, stir fry, quick dinner, weeknight meal, easy recipe, 20-minute meal, takeout fakeout

Find it online: https://tastytuck.com/easy-20-minute-beef-and-broccoli-stir-fry/