Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a quick, flavorful classic that brings tender beef and crisp broccoli together in a savory sauce. It’s simple to cook, healthy, and perfect for weeknight dinners when you need something fast but delicious.
This dish is all about balance—rich beef, fresh veggies, and that unmistakable stir-fry flavor. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up Chinese Beef and Broccoli in minutes and enjoy takeout-style taste right at home.
What if you could recreate your favorite take-out dish in under 30 minutes—without sacrificing flavor or health? Most people assume that authentic Chinese Beef and Broccoli requires hours of prep and specialty ingredients. But here’s the secret: with the right technique, you can make a restaurant-quality Chinese Beef and Broccoli in one pan, using simple pantry staples. Ready to transform your weeknight dinner game?
Ingredients List Chinese Beef and Broccoli
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain (about 1/4 inch thick)
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for searing)
- Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Pro tip: Swap flank steak for sirloin or thinly sliced beef tenderloin for a more tender bite. For a plant-based twist, use marinated tofu or portobello mushrooms. Want a low-carb version? Replace hoisin with a mix of coconut aminos and maple syrup.
Timing
Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 12 minutes | Total time: 27 minutes — that’s 30% faster than the average take-out meal delivery time. For busy families or fitness-focused eaters, this Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste in a fraction of the time. Perfect for Fast Dinners and Healthy Dinner Recipes For Weight Losing.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Beef
Place sliced beef in a bowl. Add 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Toss to coat. Let marinate for 10 minutes (or skip if in a rush—still tasty!). This step tenderizes the meat and creates a silky sauce base.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add beef in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Sear 1-2 minutes per side until browned but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside. This searing technique locks in flavor and prevents overcooking later.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Lower heat to medium. Add garlic and ginger, sautéing 30 seconds until fragrant. Don’t let them burn—this is where the soul of the dish begins. The aroma will instantly transport you to a Chinese restaurant.
Step 4: Cook the Broccoli
Add broccoli to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly crisp-tender. If using frozen broccoli, thaw first and drain well to avoid excess water. A splash of water (1-2 tbsp) helps steam the broccoli gently.
Step 5: Combine & Thicken
Return beef to the pan. Add remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, red pepper flakes (if using), and the cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water). Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens and coats everything evenly. The sauce should cling to the beef and broccoli like velvet.
Step 6: Serve & Garnish
Remove from heat. Garnish with sliced green onions. Serve immediately over steamed brown rice, cauliflower rice, or quinoa for a low-carb twist. For extra crunch, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1/4 of recipe, served with 1/2 cup brown rice):
Calories: 380
Protein: 32g
Carbs: 28g
Fiber: 5g
Fat: 16g
Sodium: 720mg (reduced with low-sodium soy sauce)
This Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe delivers 65% of your daily protein needs in one meal. The broccoli provides 100% of your daily vitamin C, while lean beef supports muscle recovery. Ideal for Health Dinner Recipes and Beef Dinner lovers focused on balanced macros.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Want to elevate this dish for a weight-loss or keto lifestyle? Try these swaps:
- Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a lower-sodium, soy-free option.
- Replace hoisin with a blend of 1 tsp maple syrup + 1 tsp tamari for a natural sweetener.
- Swap beef for grilled chicken breast or extra-firm tofu for a lower-fat protein.
- Use zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles instead of rice for a low-carb version.
- Double the broccoli and add shredded carrots for extra fiber and crunch.
These tweaks maintain the authentic taste while boosting nutritional value—perfect for Healthy Food Dishes and Authentic Beef And Broccoli fans.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Chinese Beef and Broccoli with a side of miso soup or a crisp cucumber salad for a complete meal. Serve in a bamboo steamer basket for an authentic Asian dining feel. For meal prep, divide into glass containers—this dish reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.
Pro tip: Add a squeeze of lime juice before serving for a bright, citrusy kick that enhances the umami profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the beef: Searing too long makes it tough. Cook just until browned—residual heat finishes the job.
- Using too much sauce: A little goes a long way. Over-saucing creates a soggy dish.
- Skipping the cornstarch slurry: This is key for that glossy, restaurant-style sauce.
- Using frozen broccoli straight from the freezer: Thaw and pat dry to prevent water from diluting the sauce.
- Low heat during stir-frying: High heat ensures quick cooking and crispy texture—don’t rush the sear!
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For best texture, keep the sauce and broccoli separate if storing longer than 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of water to revive the sauce. Freeze for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge.
Prep ahead: Marinate the beef in advance, chop garlic, and measure sauces. This cuts actual cooking time to under 15 minutes—ideal for Fast Dinner Recipes on hectic evenings.
Conclusion
With its bold flavors, quick prep, and nutrient-rich ingredients, this Chinese Beef and Broccoli is more than just a meal—it’s a lifestyle upgrade. Whether you’re chasing Healthy Dinner Recipes For Weight Losing or craving a comforting Beef Dinner, this dish delivers on every front.
Ready to impress your family or meal-prep like a pro? Try it tonight and let us know how it turned out in the comments! Don’t forget to explore similar recipes like Fast Dinners for more inspiration. Your taste buds—and your waistline—will thank you.
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