Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry: A Cozy Weeknight Dinner
As the sun sets and the evening chill creeps into the air, there’s something so comforting about the aroma of a warm dinner wafting through the house. It conjures memories of bustling kitchens and family dinners, where laughter and stories fill the gaps between delightful bites. One recipe that never fails to bring a smile to my face—and to the faces of my loved ones—is Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry.
This dish is a perfect harmony of tender, savory beef and vibrant, crisp broccoli, all enveloped in a luscious, umami-rich sauce. As I sauté each ingredient, the rich aromas remind me of the countless evenings spent revisiting simple yet delicious meals that warm the soul. Plus, it’s an easy weeknight dinner that comes together in a flash—a true lifesaver during those busy evenings when all you crave is a comforting bowl of goodness. This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe can be ready in just 20 minutes!
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the flavors and textures of this comforting dish.
- Healthy ingredients: Packed with lean beef and vibrant broccoli, it makes for a nutritious meal.
- Versatile: Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or switching up the sauce flavors!
- Crowd-pleaser: This Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is sure to impress guests whether it’s a casual weeknight or a dinner party.
What You’ll Need
Gather These Simple Ingredients for Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry:
- 1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice for serving
Let’s Make It Together
In a bowl, toss the beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Let it marinate for 10 minutes. This will infuse the beef with wonderful flavor and create a nice caramelization when cooked.
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Feel that sizzle—you know it’s time for magic!
Add the marinated beef to the skillet and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes. The fragrance will make your mouth water.
Add garlic and ginger, sautéing for an additional minute. The warmth of these aromatics will fill your kitchen with cozy vibes.
Add the broccoli and a splash of water, cover the skillet, and steam for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender yet still vibrant. This is where the dish truly transforms!
Season with salt and pepper to taste. A little pinch can elevate the entire meal.
Serve hot over warm, fluffy cooked rice. Nothing says “home” like a comforting bowl of deliciousness!
Delicious Variations to Try
- Add some heat: Toss in slices of fresh chili or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a zesty kick!
- Switch up the veggies: Don’t hesitate to include bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for a colorful twist.
- Make it richer: Drizzle some sesame oil right before serving for a nutty, indulgent flavor.
- Experiment with sauces: Add a splash of teriyaki for a sweet and sticky finish!
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Meal prep: You can marinate the beef the night before to save time!
- Slice the beef against the grain for maximum tenderness—this makes a world of difference!
- For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stovetop to revive the original texture and flavors.
- If you want a thicker sauce, you can increase the cornstarch slightly and/or add a little chicken broth as it cooks.
What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown
Calories: 320
Carbohydrates: 26g
Sugar: 3g
Fat: 15g
Protein: 24g
Sodium: 800mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! You can marinate the beef beforehand and store it in the fridge for up to a day.
Can I use different ingredients?
Yes, feel free to swap in different proteins like chicken or tofu, or add in a variety of veggies!
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How long does it last?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can stay tasty for 2-3 days when stored properly.
Wrapping It Up
This Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug in a bowl, perfect for any night of the week. With its dazzling flavors and quick prep time, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen repertoire. So, next time you’re looking for a delightful weeknight dinner idea, remember this recipe. Save this Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry to your cozy dinner ideas board so it’s ready when you need a comforting treat! Happy cooking!
Print
Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A quick and easy Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry, perfect for busy weeknights and packed with savory flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions
- In a bowl, toss the beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated beef to the skillet and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add garlic and ginger, sautéing for an additional minute.
- Add the broccoli and a splash of water, cover the skillet, and steam for 3-4 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot over warm, fluffy cooked rice.
Notes
For more flavor, you can add fresh chili or different vegetables. Marinate the beef the night before for best results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir Fry
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: beef, broccoli, stir fry, quick dinner, family meal, weeknight recipe