Quick and Delicious Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry for a Family-Friendly Feast
These cozy Beef and Broccoli stir-fry bowls are not only packed with tender beef and vibrant, crisp broccoli, they come together in under 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights, this quick dish provides a delightful dinner that will satisfy the whole family.
Growing up, my kitchen always smelled like a bustling market filled with aromas from mom’s favorite wok. She had a knack for whipping up her signature dishes in minutes, and Beef and Broccoli was a staple in our home. There’s something special about simple, wholesome meals made with love that unites us around the dinner table. Today, I’m excited to share this family-friendly recipe that brings that warmth and nostalgia right into your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Beef and Broccoli stir-fry is the ultimate solution for a healthy dinner that your family will adore. It’s loaded with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a nutritious choice. Plus, the ingredients come together quickly, so you can enjoy a homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
How to Make Beef and Broccoli
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Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
Quick and delicious stir-fry packed with tender beef and vibrant broccoli, ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp cornstarch / cornflour
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 1 1/2 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Chinese cooking wine (Shaoxing wine)
- 1/8 tsp Chinese five spice powder
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp oil
- 12 oz beef fillet, flank, or rump
- 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, finely chopped
- 4 – 5 cups broccoli florets (1 head), cooked
- 1 cup water
- Sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch and water. Stir well. Then add the sugar, soy sauces, cooking wine, five spice powder, sesame oil (if using), and black pepper. Whisk until smooth.
- Slice the beef into 1/4” thick pieces. Place the beef in a bowl and pour 2 tablespoons of the sauce over it, allowing it to sit while you prepare the rest.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the beef, spreading it out evenly. Let it cook for about 1 minute without stirring to achieve a nice sear.
- Quickly stir the beef for about 10 seconds, then add the garlic and ginger. Cook for an additional 30 seconds, or until the beef has lost its pink color.
- Pour the remaining sauce and water into the skillet. Stir quickly to combine.
- Once the sauce starts to bubble, add the broccoli, tossing it to coat. Allow it to simmer for about 1 minute until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat immediately and serve over rice. If you’d like, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for a lovely crunch.
Notes
For extra tenderness, marinate the beef slices in sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. Use gluten-free soy sauce for a gluten-free dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp cornstarch / cornflour
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 1 1/2 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Chinese cooking wine (Shaoxing wine)
- 1/8 tsp Chinese five spice powder
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp oil
- 12 oz / 360g beef fillet, flank, or rump
- 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, finely chopped
- 4 – 5 cups broccoli florets (1 head), cooked
- 1 cup water
- Sesame seeds (optional)
Directions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch and water. Stir well. Then add the sugar, soy sauces, cooking wine, five spice powder, sesame oil (if using), and black pepper. Whisk until smooth.
- Slice the beef into 1/4″ thick pieces. Place the beef in a bowl and pour 2 tablespoons of the sauce over it, allowing it to sit while you prepare the rest.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the beef, spreading it out evenly. Let it cook for about 1 minute without stirring to achieve a nice sear.
- Quickly stir the beef for about 10 seconds, then add the garlic and ginger. Cook for an additional 30 seconds, or until the beef has lost its pink color.
- Pour the remaining sauce and water into the skillet. Stir quickly to combine.
- Once the sauce starts to bubble, add the broccoli, tossing it to coat. Allow it to simmer for about 1 minute until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat immediately and serve over rice. If you’d like, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for a lovely crunch.

Serving Suggestions for Your Beef and Broccoli
Serve this delicious Beef and Broccoli stir-fry over a bed of fluffy rice or noodles to soak up all the savory sauce. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of steamed dumplings or a crisp salad tossed with a light vinaigrette.
Storing Your Leftover Beef and Broccoli
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Tips for Success with This Recipe
- Tender Beef: For extra tenderness, you can marinate the beef slices in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Fresh Broccoli: Ensure your broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp for the best texture.
- High Heat: Cooking on high heat will help achieve that wonderful stir-fry flavor and texture.
Variations of Beef and Broccoli
Feel free to get creative! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for additional color and nutrients. Or, if you’re looking for a lighter option, swap the beef for chicken or tofu!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding.
2. What can I substitute for Chinese cooking wine?
You can replace it with dry sherry or simply use an extra tablespoon of soy sauce for a non-alcoholic option.
3. Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) instead of regular soy sauce and check that your cornstarch is also certified gluten-free.
This Beef and Broccoli stir-fry is truly a tested and trusted staple that brings comfort and ease to your weeknight meals. I hope you enjoy every delicious bite as much as I do!