Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe

If there’s one dish that always hits the spot when you’re craving takeout, it’s Chinese Beef and Broccoli. Tender slices of beef soaked in a savory-sweet garlic sauce, perfectly crisp-tender broccoli, all piled over a steaming bowl of jasmine rice—what’s not to love? I’ve been making this recipe on busy weeknights for years, and let me tell you, it’s a total crowd-pleaser.

Plus, it comes together faster than delivery and tastes way better. This homemade version packs in the flavor without the mystery ingredients or MSG. If you’ve never tried cooking Asian-style stir fry at home before, don’t worry—this one’s super beginner-friendly!

Chinese Beef and Broccoli Save

Ingredients

For the beef marinade:

  • 1 lb flank steak (or sirloin), thinly sliced against the grain
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the sauce:

  • 1/4 cup oyster sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup beef broth or water
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional but highly recommended)

For the stir fry:

  • 3 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil (like avocado or vegetable oil)
  • Cooked white rice or noodles, for serving
  • Sesame seeds or sliced green onions (optional garnish)

Serving Size

Serves: 4 people (or 2 very hungry adults with leftovers)

Time Breakdown

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes

Instructions

  1. Marinate the beef: Toss the thinly sliced steak with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil in a bowl. Let it sit while you prep everything else—about 10 minutes is perfect.
  2. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, beef broth, garlic, and ginger. Set it aside. (You’ll want to taste-test this later—you may never use bottled stir-fry sauce again.)
  3. Cook the broccoli: In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add a splash of water and the broccoli. Cover and steam for about 2-3 minutes until bright green and just tender. Transfer to a plate.
  4. Sear the beef: Wipe the skillet dry and add the oil. When hot, toss in the beef (do this in batches if needed). Sear for 1-2 minutes per side until browned. Don’t crowd the pan—crispy edges are key!
  5. Bring it all together: Return broccoli to the pan. Pour in the sauce and stir everything together. The sauce should thicken in about a minute—coat all those delicious pieces.
  6. Serve it up: Spoon over warm rice, sprinkle on green onions or sesame seeds if you’re feeling fancy, and dig in.

Related Post: Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli: The Easiest Weeknight Dinner You’ll Ever Make

Pro Tip:

This Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe dish is super meal-prep friendly! Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge. It reheats like a dream.