Beef and Broccoli Recipe

Beef and Broccoli Recipe is a delightful dish that combines tender beef with fresh broccoli in a savory stir-fry sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this easy one-pan meal comes together in just 30 minutes. The balance of flavors and textures makes it a favorite among families, and it’s a fantastic way to enjoy nutritious ingredients in a delicious way.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Beef and Broccoli Recipe only takes 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in just one pan, clean-up is a breeze!
• Flavorful Sauce: The homemade stir-fry sauce brings out the best flavors of the beef and broccoli, ensuring every bite is packed with taste.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice levels to suit your family’s preferences.
• Healthy Meal Option: Loaded with protein from the beef and vitamins from the broccoli, this dish is both filling and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Beef and Broccoli Recipe, gather all necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rice cooker (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet ensures even cooking of the beef and broccoli without overcrowding.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing ingredients like flank steak and vegetables.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining sauce ingredients thoroughly before adding them to the skillet.

Ingredients

Beef and Broccoli is an easy, 1-pan, 30-minute meal that is loaded with fresh broccoli, tender nutrition-packed beef, and the best stir fry sauce. We love this over steamy white rice.

For the Beef

• 1 lb flank steak (very thinly sliced into bite-sized strips)
• 2 Tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil), divided

For the Broccoli

• 1 lb fresh broccoli (cut into 6 cups of florets)

For the Stir Fry Sauce

• 6 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce (or GF Tamari)
• 3 Tbsp packed light brown sugar
• 1 1/2 Tbsp corn starch
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 Tbsp sesame oil

Additional Ingredients

• 1 tsp fresh ginger (grated loosely packed)
• 2 tsp garlic (grated from 3 cloves)
• 1/2 cup hot water
• 2 tsp sesame seeds (optional garnish)

How to Make Beef and Broccoli Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start cooking white rice first so it’s ready when the stir fry is done. Cover and freeze steak for 30 minutes for easier slicing. After freezing, thinly slice against the grain.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

Combine all stir fry sauce ingredients in a mixing bowl. Stir well to dissolve the sugar completely, then set aside.

Step 3: Cook Broccoli

Place a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 Tbsp oil. Add broccoli florets and sauté for 4-5 minutes while partially covered with a lid. Stir or toss several times until broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender. Remove from pan. If you prefer softer broccoli, add 2 Tbsp water before covering with the lid to steam cook it.

Step 4: Cook Beef

Increase heat to high heat and add remaining oil. Add sliced beef in a single layer. Sauté for about 2 minutes per side or until cooked through. Quickly pull out a piece to test for doneness.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the prepared sauce to the beef in the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens. Then add cooked broccoli back into the pan, stirring to combine everything well. If desired, stir in an additional 1-2 Tbsp water to thin out the sauce. Serve hot over white rice.

Enjoy your homemade Beef and Broccoli Recipe!

How to Serve Beef and Broccoli Recipe

Serving Beef and Broccoli is a delightful experience that will impress your family and friends. This dish is versatile and can be paired with various sides to enhance its flavors.

Over Rice

• White Rice: A classic choice, the fluffy texture of white rice absorbs the savory sauce perfectly.
• Brown Rice: A healthier option, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.

With Noodles

• Lo Mein: Soft noodles complement the stir-fry, making each bite satisfying.
• Rice Noodles: Gluten-free and chewy, they soak up the sauce beautifully.

As a Salad

• Asian Slaw: Crisp veggies add crunch and freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the dish.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side that cools down the palate with its light dressing.

Garnishes

• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkling these on top adds a nice crunch and nutty flavor.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide a pop of color and extra zest.

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How to Perfect Beef and Broccoli Recipe

To achieve the best Beef and Broccoli, follow these simple tips for an amazing meal every time.

• Thinly slice beef: Slicing against the grain ensures tender meat that cooks quickly.
• Use high heat: Cooking at high temperature gives you that authentic stir-fry taste with a slight char.
• Prep ingredients before cooking: Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and quick.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming instead of frying.
• Adjust sauce thickness: If you prefer a thinner sauce, simply stir in a bit of water as needed during cooking.
• Let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Beef and Broccoli Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Beef and Broccoli can elevate your dinner experience. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fragrant rice complements the dish beautifully while soaking up excess sauce.
2. Garlic Fried Rice: Adds an aromatic touch with crispy bits that contrast nicely with tender beef.
3. Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful medley of bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas brings additional texture.
4. Egg Drop Soup: A warming bowl of this soup provides a comforting start to your meal.
5. Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with vegetables or shrimp offer a crunchy side that pairs well with stir-fry.
6. Miso Soup: A light broth enriched with miso paste adds umami flavor to balance out the richness of beef.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Beef and Broccoli Recipe, avoid common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to keep in mind:

• Using Thick Beef Slices: Thick slices of beef can result in chewy meat. Always slice flank steak thinly against the grain for tenderness.
• Overcooking the Broccoli: Overcooked broccoli can become mushy. Sauté it until just bright green and crisp-tender for the best texture.
• Skipping the Marinade: Neglecting to marinate the beef can lead to lackluster flavor. Even a quick marinade enhances taste significantly.
• Not Adjusting Sauce Thickness: A sauce that’s too thick or too thin isn’t ideal. Always adjust with water as needed for your desired consistency.
• Ignoring Cooking Order: The order of cooking affects dish quality. Cook broccoli first, then beef, to ensure everything is perfectly cooked without overdoing one ingredient.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Beef and Broccoli Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Portion into individual servings for easy reheating later.

Reheating Beef and Broccoli Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best cut of beef for this Beef and Broccoli Recipe?

Flank steak is recommended due to its tenderness when sliced thinly against the grain.

Can I make this Beef and Broccoli Recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free tamari in place of soy sauce for a delicious gluten-free option.

How can I customize my Beef and Broccoli Recipe?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra nutrition and flavor.

Is this Beef and Broccoli Recipe healthy?

Absolutely! It combines lean protein with fresh vegetables, making it a nutritious meal option.

How long does it take to make this Beef and Broccoli Recipe?

This dish takes only about 30 minutes from prep to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

This Beef and Broccoli Recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors that make it a family favorite. It’s not only quick but also versatile; you can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spices. Try this recipe today for a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy!