Chinese Beef and Broccoli: Better Than Takeout at Home

Few dishes can compete with the savory, saucy, and satisfying taste of Chinese Beef and Broccoli. With tender slices of beef, crisp broccoli florets, and a glossy, flavorful sauce that clings to every bite, this stir-fry is the perfect blend of comfort food and fresh flavors. Served over fluffy white rice, it’s a complete meal that’s quicker and healthier than ordering takeout plus you control the ingredients and seasoning.

What Is Chinese Beef and Broccoli?

Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a popular stir-fry dish from Chinese-American cuisine. It features marinated beef slices cooked until tender, paired with fresh broccoli, and tossed in a savory sauce made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness. This quick-cooking dish is known for its bold flavor and satisfying texture, making it a go-to for busy weeknights and special dinners alike.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe

Faster than takeout ready in under 30 minutes.

Nutritious and balanced high protein, fresh vegetables, and flavorful sauce.
Customizable adjust sweetness, spice, and vegetables to your taste.

Meal-prep friendly reheats beautifully for next-day lunches.
Authentic-inspired flavor that rivals restaurant versions.

How Does It Taste?

Each bite is a perfect harmony of flavors the beef is savory, tender, and juicy, while the broccoli is fresh and slightly crisp. The sauce is rich with umami from soy and oyster sauce, balanced with garlic, ginger, and just the right touch of sweetness. Sesame seeds add a subtle nuttiness, and the rice soaks up all that delicious sauce.

Health & Ingredient Benefits

Beef provides high-quality protein, iron, and essential vitamins.
Broccoli is rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants.

Garlic and ginger support immune health and digestion.
Soy sauce and oyster sauce give umami depth with minimal added fats.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain

2 cups broccoli florets
2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
2 tbsp oyster sauce
3 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp cornstarch
1/2 cup beef broth
1 tbsp brown sugar

1 tsp sesame oil
1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional garnish)
Steamed white rice, for serving

Tools You’ll Need

Wok or large skillet
Sharp knife
Cutting board

Mixing bowls
Whisk

Optional Substitutions & Additions

Use chicken or shrimp instead of beef for a protein twist.

Swap broccoli with broccolini, snap peas, or mixed vegetables.
Add chili flakes or sriracha for heat.
Use low-sodium soy sauce for a lighter sodium option.

How to Make

Marinate beef: In a bowl, combine sliced beef, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp cornstarch, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Let sit for 10 minutes.
Prepare sauce: Whisk together oyster sauce, remaining soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, and remaining cornstarch.
Cook broccoli: In a wok over medium-high heat, add 1 tbsp oil and stir-fry broccoli for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Remove and set aside.

Cook beef: Add remaining oil to wok, then sear beef for 2-3 minutes until browned.
Add aromatics: Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Combine & sauce: Return broccoli to wok, pour in sauce, and stir until thickened and everything is well coated.

Serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve over steamed white rice.

What to Serve With

Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
Fried rice for extra flavor

Asian cucumber salad for freshness
Spring rolls or dumplings for a full meal

Tips for Success

Slice beef against the grain for tenderness.

Don’t overcook broccoli keep it crisp-tender.
Use high heat for stir-frying to get that signature wok flavor.
Prepare all ingredients before cooking stir-fry moves fast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the pan cook in batches if needed.
Letting sauce sit too long before thickening cornstarch can settle.
Cutting broccoli too large smaller pieces cook evenly.

How to Store & Reheat

Store: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to loosen sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?
Yes you can slice beef and prep broccoli in advance, then cook fresh.

What beef cut is best?
Flank steak or sirloin works best, but ribeye or tenderloin also work.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure oyster sauce is gluten-free.

Nutritional Info (approximate per serving)

Calories: 390
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 780mg

Conclusion

Chinese Beef and Broccoli is the ultimate quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal. With fresh broccoli, tender beef, and a sauce that’s downright addictive, it’s a dish worth mastering. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend family dinner, this recipe brings the flavors of your favorite Chinese takeout right to your kitchen.

August 11, 2025 by Melissa