Dinner doesn’t need to be complicated. With my easy beef and broccoli recipe, you can whip up a quick, tasty dish your whole family will love. Using simple ingredients like flank steak, fresh broccoli, and tasty sauces, you’ll create a meal in no time. Ready to dive into a quick dinner delight? Let’s make cooking effortless and delicious!

Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
Marinade Components
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Serving Suggestions
- Cooked rice or quinoa
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
When you start making Easy Beef and Broccoli, gather your main ingredients first. The flank steak gives this dish a rich flavor. Slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture. Next, grab two cups of fresh broccoli florets. They add a nice crunch and color.
For the sauces, you need soy sauce and oyster sauce. These sauces mix well to create a savory taste. Don't forget the marinade components! Cornstarch helps the beef stay tender. Garlic and ginger add a kick to the flavor, while sesame oil gives a nutty finish.
For serving, cooked rice or quinoa makes a great base. You can also sprinkle sesame seeds on top for an added touch. This dish looks and tastes great, making it perfect for any dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Marinade
To start, take your flank steak and slice it thinly against the grain. This makes it tender. In a medium bowl, mix the beef with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Stir well to coat the steak. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes. This short time helps the flavors soak in.
Blanching the Broccoli
Next, let's prepare the broccoli. Boil some water in a pot. Once boiling, add the 2 cups of broccoli florets. Blanch them for just 2 minutes. This keeps the broccoli bright and crunchy. Drain it well and set it aside. A vibrant color means great taste!
Cooking the Beef
Now it's time to cook the beef. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes. You want the beef to brown nicely. Once done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
Stir-Frying Process
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until it smells great. Next, add the blanched broccoli. Stir-fry it for another 2 minutes. Now, return the beef to the skillet. Pour in the oyster sauce, remaining soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir everything together. Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and broccoli well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Stir-Fry
To make the best beef and broccoli, avoid overcrowding the pan. When you add too much beef at once, it steams instead of browns. Cook in small batches. This way, the meat will sear nicely and develop rich flavor.
For the sauce, aim for a thick, glossy finish. Use cornstarch in your marinade. This helps the sauce cling to the beef and broccoli. Stir well after adding sauces. Keep cooking until the sauce thickens.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you can’t find flank steak, try sirloin or ribeye. These cuts taste great too. You can also use chicken or shrimp for a twist.
For sauces, if you want a change, use teriyaki or hoisin sauce. They both add unique flavors. If you need it gluten-free, check for tamari or coconut aminos. These work well too.
Enhancing Flavor
Boost the taste by adding spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds heat. You can also toss in sliced bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch.
Fresh ingredients always shine. Use fresh garlic and ginger for more punch. If dried is all you have, it’s fine, but fresh really makes a difference. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also brighten your dish.
Variations
Vegetarian Version
You can make a tasty vegetarian version of beef and broccoli. Instead of beef, use tofu or tempeh. Tofu soaks up flavors well. Tempeh adds a nutty taste. Cut them into bite-sized pieces.
For cooking, adjust the times. Tofu cooks fast, about 3-4 minutes. Tempeh needs a bit longer, around 5-6 minutes. Make sure they get nice and golden. This way, you keep the dish filling and delicious.
Adding More Vegetables
You can boost your dish with more veggies. Try adding bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. These add color and crunch.
When cooking, add these extras after the broccoli. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes. This timing keeps everything crisp and fresh. You can mix and match your favorites.
Gluten-Free Option
To make this dish gluten-free, swap out soy sauce and oyster sauce. Use tamari instead of soy sauce. It has a similar taste but is gluten-free. For oyster sauce, look for gluten-free brands or use hoisin sauce.
Always check labels to ensure they are gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal without worry.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your beef and broccoli fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. Place the container in the fridge right after the meal. This helps lock in the flavors. It stays fresh for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to check for any signs of spoilage before eating.
Reheating Instructions
When reheating, you want to keep the texture just right. The best method is to use the stovetop. Heat a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to help steam the meal. Stir often for even heating. If you're in a hurry, the microwave works too. Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it to keep moisture in.
Freezing Tips
Yes, you can freeze beef and broccoli! First, let it cool completely. Then, place it in freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it on the stovetop for the best taste.
FAQs
How long does it take to make Easy Beef and Broccoli?
Making Easy Beef and Broccoli takes about 30 minutes. You spend 15 minutes prepping the food. The cooking time is about 15 minutes. This quick meal fits perfectly into a busy weeknight schedule.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can make this dish in advance. Cook the beef and broccoli and store them in the fridge. You can reheat it later for a quick meal. This method saves time on busy nights. Just keep the rice or quinoa separate until you serve.
What kind of beef is best for stir-fries?
Flank steak works best for stir-fries. It is tender and cooks quickly. Other good cuts include sirloin and ribeye. They also work well but may need more care when cooking.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
This recipe is great for kids. It has mild flavors and no spicy heat. You can adjust the soy sauce to make it less salty. Just keep an eye on the garlic and ginger amount to suit their taste.
In this post, we explored easy beef and broccoli. We detailed key ingredients like flank steak, broccoli, and sauces. I provided steps for marinating, cooking, and blanching to enhance texture. You learned tips for perfecting stir-fry, as well as variations for dietary needs.
Remember, this dish is flexible and can cater to many tastes. Use the tips and tricks shared to make it yours. Enjoy cooking and get creative with flavors that you love!

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