Chinese Beef and Broccoli: Better Than Takeout in 20 Minutes

Tender slices of beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and a rich, savory sauce — this Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a takeout classic you can easily make at home. It’s fast, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, all in one skillet. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or a healthier spin on restaurant favorites, this dish delivers big flavor with simple ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

🥩 Tender beef strips marinated for flavor and softness
🥦 Fresh broccoli adds crunch and color
🥡 Savory garlic-soy sauce with a touch of sweetness
🍚 Perfect with rice or noodles
🕒 Ready in just 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 3 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or hoisin as a substitute)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup beef broth or water
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional garnish: sesame seeds, sliced green onions

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Beef
In a bowl, mix beef with 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp cornstarch, and a dash of sesame oil. Let sit for 10–15 minutes while you prep the rest.

Step 2: Blanch or Steam Broccoli
Quickly blanch broccoli in boiling water for 2 minutes until bright green, then drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Beef
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or wok over high heat. Sear beef in batches until browned (about 1–2 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same pan, add garlic and ginger. Stir for 30 seconds, then add remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, broth, and a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water). Bring to a simmer.

Step 5: Combine & Finish
Return beef and broccoli to the pan. Toss until well-coated in sauce and heated through. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Serve
Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or scallions if desired.

Variations

  • Use chicken or tofu instead of beef
  • Add carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms
  • Spice it up with chili flakes or sriracha
  • Make it low-carb with cauliflower rice or zoodles

Perfect For:

  • Quick weeknight dinners
  • Meal prep (reheats well!)
  • Healthier takeout alternatives
  • Family-friendly meals

Final Thoughts

This Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe brings bold flavor and comforting texture with minimal effort. It’s fresh, saucy, and totally customizable — a must-have in any home cook’s weekly rotation. Once you try it, you’ll skip takeout for good.

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