Beef and Broccoli
Craving takeout but want something healthier and cheaper? This simple beef and broccoli recipe comes together fast and tastes amazing. The sauce is savory, slightly sweet, and easy to make from scratch. It’s the kind of dish that makes you forget about ordering takeout.
Thin slices of tender beef are coated in a flavorful sauce and tossed with fresh broccoli. No fancy ingredients. No long prep time. Just a healthy, budget-friendly meal on the table in 20 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Beef and Broccoli
- Quick and easy: ready in just 20 minutes
- Simple ingredients: nothing fancy or hard to find
- Better than takeout: full of flavor and made at home
- Budget-friendly: saves money without sacrificing taste
- Family-approved: even picky eaters will enjoy it
- Healthier option: less sodium and more control over ingredients
Recipe Tips
- Slice the beef thin: This helps it cook quickly and stay tender
- Use fresh broccoli: For the best texture and color
- Don’t overcook: Stir-fry the beef just until browned to keep it juicy
- Mix the sauce well: Make sure the cornstarch is fully dissolved before adding
- Let the sauce simmer: This thickens it and brings the flavors together
- Serve immediately: Best enjoyed hot, right after cooking
Recipe Variations
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha
- Swap the protein: Try chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead of beef
- Use frozen broccoli: A quick substitute when fresh isn’t available
- Go low carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or skip the rice entirely
- Add more veggies: Bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms work great
- Try a different sauce base: Use coconut aminos or tamari for a gluten-free option
Beef and Broccoli
Equipment
- large skillet
Ingredients
For the stir-fry
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
For the sauce
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey (can substitute with brown sugar)
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ cup water
Instructions
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, cornstarch, and water. Set aside.
- Cook the broccoli: Steam or microwave the broccoli until just tender (about 2–3 minutes). Set aside.
- Sear the beef: Heat oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until browned.
- Add the sauce: Pour the sauce over the beef. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until thickened.
- Combine: Add broccoli to the pan and toss everything to coat well in the sauce. Cook for another minute, then serve.
Notes
Nutrition (per serving):
- Calories: 260
- Protein: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Sugars: 5g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fiber: 2g
FAQ: Beef and Broccoli
Slice against the grain and don’t overcook. A quick stir-fry is all it needs.
Yes, but it’s best served fresh. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the beef.
Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
Absolutely. Just thaw it first and pat it dry to avoid extra moisture in the pan.
Steamed rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice all pair well.
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
You can use arrowroot powder or a small amount of flour as a thickener.
Yes, swap the beef for tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth if adjusting the sauce.
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