Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Ready in Under 30 Minutes

Why Beef and Broccoli Is a Family Favorite

Beef and broccoli stir-fry is one of those classic meals that everyone loves. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Plus, it’s healthy and satisfying, making it perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight but you want a delicious homemade dinner.

Ingredients for Perfect Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

3 tablespoons cornstarch, divided
½ cup + 2 tablespoons water, divided
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 lb boneless round steak or charcoal chuck steak, cut into thin 3-inch strips
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
1 small onion, cut into wedges
4 cups broccoli florets
⅓ cup reduced sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground ginger
Hot cooked rice, for serving
Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

How to Marinate the Beef for Stir-Fry

Start by mixing 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 2 tablespoons water, and garlic powder in a bowl until smooth. Toss the sliced beef strips in this mixture. This step helps tenderize the beef and gives it a nice coating to hold the sauce later.

Cooking Beef and Broccoli to Perfection

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove the beef and keep it warm.

Next, add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Stir-fry the onion wedges for 4–5 minutes until they soften slightly. Then add the broccoli florets and cook for about 3 minutes, just enough to keep them crisp and bright green.

Making the Beef and Broccoli Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining tablespoon of cornstarch with ½ cup water, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ground ginger. Make sure the mixture is smooth before adding it to the skillet.

Return the beef to the pan with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over everything and stir constantly for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and broccoli beautifully.

Serving Your Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Serve the hot beef and broccoli stir-fry over freshly cooked rice. For a nice finishing touch, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds if you like. This meal is comforting, colorful, and ready in under 30 minutes!

Tips for Making the Best Beef and Broccoli

Use charcoal chuck steak for a tender and lean cut, or boneless round steak as an alternative.
Don’t overcook the broccoli; it should stay crisp for the best texture.
Adjust the brown sugar to balance the savory and sweet flavors according to your taste.

Final Thoughts

This beef and broccoli stir-fry recipe is a tried-and-true favorite for busy households. It’s simple enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests. Plus, it uses everyday ingredients and comes together quickly. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your dinner rotation!

If you loved this beef and broccoli recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends, family, and loved ones on social media! Spread the flavor and make dinner time easier for everyone.