Beef Stir Fry Broccoli

Name: Beef Stir Fry Broccoli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced; 2 cups broccoli florets; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

Highlighted under: Easy Global Meals

When I think of quick and delicious meals, beef stir fry with broccoli always comes to mind. I love how easily this dish comes together, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The tender beef paired with crisp broccoli and a savory sauce creates a flavor explosion that satisfies my cravings every time. Plus, it's a great way to enjoy fresh vegetables while still indulging in a hearty meal. Join me in discovering how simple and fulfilling this recipe can be!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-24T19:06:18.625Z

I've spent years perfecting my beef stir fry with broccoli recipe, and I can confidently say it's a family favorite. During one particularly hectic week, I experimented with different sauces, finally landing on a blend of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger that elevates the entire dish. The aroma wafting through my kitchen while this cooks is simply irresistible, making both my family and I rush to the table.

What I love most is how quickly everything comes together. From slicing the beef to sautéing the broccoli, the entire dish can be ready in just 35 minutes. Make sure to cut the beef against the grain for maximum tenderness—this tiny adjustment makes a world of difference!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation, ready in under 35 minutes
Savory sauce that perfectly enhances the flavors of the beef and broccoli
A healthy balance of protein and vegetables makes it a guilt-free indulgence

Essential Cooking Techniques

One of the key techniques in preparing this Beef Stir Fry is slicing the beef against the grain. This method tenderizes the meat and allows it to remain juicy after cooking. When you cut the beef, locating the direction of the muscle fibers is essential. Aim for thin, uniform slices, ideally between 1/4 to 1/8 inch thick. This will ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture that complements the crispness of the broccoli.

When stir frying, maintaining a high heat is crucial. A medium-high setting works well to achieve that golden-brown sear on the beef while keeping the broccoli vibrant and crunchy. If your pan begins to smoke, it’s an indication that the temperature is just right for that desired caramelization. However, be cautious not to overcrowd your pan; cooking in batches can prevent steaming and encourage proper browning.

Ingredient Roles and Substitutions

Soy sauce and oyster sauce play a vital role in this stir fry, providing a rich umami flavor that binds the dish together. If you need a gluten-free option, tamari sauce can be used as a direct substitute for soy sauce without compromising on taste. Additionally, for a vegetarian version, consider swapping beef for tofu or seitan, ensuring you adjust the cooking time to achieve the proper texture.

The broccoli not only adds a nutritional punch but also a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender beef. If you prefer a different vegetable, snap peas, bell peppers, or green beans can effectively substitute broccoli, offering a similar texture and retaining the dish's vibrant colors. Just keep in mind the cooking times for each vegetable to maintain their ideal doneness.

Ingredients

For the Stir Fry

1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
2 cups broccoli florets
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions

Prep the Ingredients

Slice the beef sirloin thinly against the grain. Wash and chop the broccoli into florets. Mince the garlic and ginger, and set everything aside.

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef slices, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sear the beef for about 3-4 minutes until browned, then remove from the skillet and set aside.

Stir Fry the Broccoli

In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the broccoli florets. Stir fry for 4-5 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.

Combine and Serve

Return the cooked beef to the skillet and add the soy sauce and oyster sauce. Stir everything together for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, marinate the beef for 15 minutes prior to cooking in a mixture of soy sauce and oyster sauce. Serve with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a crunchy touch.

Storing and Reheating

For make-ahead lovers, this stir fry stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. To reheat, simply use a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. You can also microwave portions in short intervals, but keep an eye on it to prevent it from becoming rubbery.

If you want to prepare ingredients in advance, consider chopping the broccoli and mincing the garlic and ginger a day prior. Store them in separate containers in the refrigerator. This can significantly reduce your cooking time, letting you whip up this dish in under 20 minutes during your busy weeknight.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this Beef Stir Fry over steamed rice or noodles is traditional, but you can get creative. Quinoa or cauliflower rice makes excellent bases for a low-carb alternative. You can also garnish the dish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for an added layer of flavor and a pop of color.

For a well-rounded meal, pair your stir fry with a side of egg rolls or a light cucumber salad. This adds variety while keeping the meal quick and cohesive. Alternatively, consider doubling the batch and enjoying leftovers for lunch the next day—this stir fry retains its delightful taste even after a night in the fridge.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of meat?

Yes, chicken or pork also work well in this stir fry recipe.

→ What can I substitute for broccoli?

You can use snap peas, bell peppers, or even green beans.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free soy sauce as a substitute.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a few slices of fresh chili when cooking the beef.