Chinese Beef and Broccoli

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Chinese Beef and Broccoli is one of those classic takeout dishes that everyone loves, and for good reason. It’s savory, saucy, and the perfect balance of tender beef and crisp, vibrant broccoli. The rich umami flavors come together quickly, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights when you’re craving something better than delivery.

What’s even better? This dish is incredibly simple to make at home with just a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. It’s high in protein, naturally gluten-free if made with tamari or coconut aminos, and can be easily paired with steamed rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get this dish just right, your tools matter as much as your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Wok or Large Skillet: A wok is ideal for high-heat, quick stir-frying that gives the beef a seared edge while keeping the broccoli crisp-tender. A cast-iron or stainless steel skillet can also work.
• Sharp Knife: Thinly slicing the beef against the grain ensures it stays tender.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll use them for marinating the beef and mixing the sauce.
• Tongs or Stir Fry Spatula: These help keep everything moving in the pan so nothing sticks or overcooks.
• Measuring Spoons/Cups: For a balanced sauce, accurate measurements are key.

Taking the time to prep all ingredients before you start cooking (mise en place style) will make the stir-fry process smooth and enjoyable.

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Ingredients for the Chinese Beef and Broccoli

• Beef (flank steak or sirloin): Thinly sliced against the grain for tenderness and quicker cooking.
• Broccoli florets: Adds a fresh crunch and soaks up the savory sauce beautifully.
• Soy sauce or tamari: This is the umami-packed base of your stir-fry sauce.
• Oyster sauce: Deepens the savory notes and gives the dish its signature glossy finish.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a sharp aromatic element.
• Cornstarch: Used to tenderize the beef and thicken the sauce.
• Brown sugar: Balances the saltiness of the sauces with a hint of sweetness.
• Sesame oil: A drizzle of toasted sesame oil adds nutty depth.
• Vegetable or avocado oil: For stir-frying at high heat.
• Water or beef broth: Helps steam the broccoli and stretch the sauce.

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How To Make the Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Slice and Marinate the Beef

Slice the beef thinly across the grain and toss it with soy sauce, cornstarch, and a splash of sesame oil. Let it marinate for 15–20 minutes to infuse flavor and boost tenderness.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, garlic, cornstarch, and water or broth. This will be your glossy, savory stir-fry sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli

Blanch or quickly steam the broccoli florets for 2–3 minutes until bright green and just tender. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Sear the Beef

Heat a wok or skillet over high heat with a drizzle of oil. Sear the marinated beef in batches until browned, about 1–2 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and keep warm.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the beef to the pan, add the broccoli, and pour in the sauce. Stir-fry everything together until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and broccoli evenly.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Drizzle with a touch of sesame oil before serving. Pair with fluffy white rice, noodles, or a grain of your choice.

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Best Ways to Serve and Store Chinese Beef and Broccoli

This dish is incredibly versatile and perfect for both casual dinners and meal prepping. Serve it hot over jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles are delicious alternatives.

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3–4 days when stored in an airtight container. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between.

If you plan to freeze it, store the beef and broccoli separately from the rice or noodles. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the beef tender in stir-fry?

Marinating with cornstarch and slicing against the grain are key steps to keeping beef tender and juicy.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, but for best texture, thaw and pat it dry before cooking so it doesn’t water down the stir-fry.

What cuts of beef work best?

Flank steak and sirloin are popular because they stay tender and cook quickly. Avoid tougher cuts unless slow-cooked.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute beef with tofu or seitan, and use mushroom-based sauces for umami flavor.

Is this gluten-free?

It can be! Just use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and double-check your oyster sauce.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes! Cook and portion it out with rice or noodles into containers. Store in the fridge for quick weekday meals.

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Want More Stir-Fry Ideas?

If this Chinese Beef and Broccoli made your dinner table feel like takeout night at home, try out these other mouthwatering meals next:

• Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini for a sweet-savory twist on steak pasta.
• Garlic Chicken Lo Mein for a noodle-packed weeknight wonder.
• Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot when you need something slow-cooked and flavor-rich.
• One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta if you want bold, cheesy comfort food.
• Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce for seafood lovers craving indulgence.

And for more of my daily recipes, check out my Pinterest board at Life With Olivia.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap in mushrooms or try it with snow peas? Did you go low-carb or serve it over noodles?

I love seeing how you make these recipes your own. Drop your questions below too—let’s keep cooking smarter together.

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