Quick Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Name: Quick Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Recipes | Simple Food

I love whipping up Quick Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry when I need a delicious weeknight meal in under 30 minutes. The vibrant colors and flavors of the broccoli combined with juicy beef are an irresistible duo. This recipe comes together quickly, letting me savor a homemade dinner without the fuss. Plus, the savory sauce makes every bite burst with flavor, ensuring that even picky eaters at the table will ask for seconds. Let’s dive into this easy and satisfying dish!

Created by

Kyle

Last updated on 2026-02-13T16:46:19.258Z

When I first tried making a beef stir-fry, I was amazed by how simple yet impactful it could be. The key to a great stir-fry is high heat and quick cooking, which keeps the ingredients vibrant and tender. I found that marinating the beef for just a short time enhances the overall flavor without being a hassle.

One tip that really transformed my stir-fry was adding garlic and ginger right at the beginning, infusing the oil with incredible aroma. Not only does this boost the taste, but it also ensures the sauce clings perfectly to the beef and broccoli, making every mouthful memorable. Give it a try!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes
Tender beef and crunchy broccoli coated in a savory sauce
Can easily customize with your favorite vegetables

      

Mastering the Stir-Fry Technique

A key to achieving that perfect stir-fry texture lies in controlling the heat and cooking time. Using high heat allows the beef to sear quickly, locking in moisture and flavor. Make sure your skillet or wok is preheated before adding the oil. You want the oil shimmering but not smoking; this ensures the beef cooks evenly and prevents it from becoming tough.

When stir-frying the vegetables, it’s essential to maintain that tender-crisp texture, especially for the broccoli. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently and observing the color; you want vibrant green broccoli with just a slight bite. If the broccoli begins to dull in color, it's overcooked. Using a lid briefly can help steam the veggies without losing their crunch.

Ingredient Insights

Beef sirloin is a fantastic choice for this recipe due to its flavor and tenderness when cooked correctly. It’s important to cut the beef against the grain into thin strips. This technique allows for a more tender bite, as cutting against the muscle fibers reduces chewiness. If you're looking for a healthier option, flank steak can also work well as an alternative.

The savory sauce is key to bringing all the flavors together. The combination of soy sauce and oyster sauce adds depth and richness to the dish. If you want a vegetarian version, you can substitute the beef with firm tofu and replace the oyster sauce with a plant-based alternative to keep it flavorful.

Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry

1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
2 cups broccoli florets
1 red bell pepper, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go before you start cooking, as stir-frying is a fast process!

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.

Cook the Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the marinated beef in a single layer and cook for about 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining oil, followed by garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds, then add broccoli and bell pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the broccoli is tender-crisp.

Combine and Sauce

Return the beef to the skillet, and then add the remaining soy sauce and oyster sauce. Stir well to combine and heat through for another 2 minutes.

Serve

Serve hot over rice or noodles, and enjoy your quick and healthy meal!

This stir-fry is best served immediately to maintain the crispness of the vegetables.

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap out the vegetables in this recipe. Carrots, snap peas, or bell peppers can also work wonderfully!

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the stir-fry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat in a skillet over medium heat. This method helps keep the beef and vegetables from becoming too soggy. Alternatively, you can microwave it, stirring occasionally for even heating.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stir-fry. Place it in a freezer-safe container and it will keep well for up to 2 months. When you're ready to consume, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Avoid freezing overcooked vegetables as they tend to lose texture when thawed.

Serving Suggestions

This Quick Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice or lo mein noodles, allowing the savory sauce to coat each bite perfectly. For a healthier twist, consider serving it over quinoa or cauliflower rice, which add a nice texture and are nutrient-dense.

Garnishing the dish with sesame seeds or fresh green onions just before serving can elevate both presentation and flavor. A drizzle of sriracha can add an extra kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat—not only does it boost the taste, but it also adds a pop of color to your plate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the stir-fry.

→ What can I serve with this stir-fry?

This dish pairs nicely with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.