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Chinese Beef and Broccoli One Pan Flavorful Meal

by on September 3, 2025

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Are you ready to whip up a delicious dinner with just one pan? My Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe brings bold flavors to your table without all the fuss. In this easy guide, I’ll show you how to make a tasty meal using fresh ingredients, simple steps, and a few secret tips. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s dive in!

- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin, thinly sliced - 3 cups broccoli florets - 1 bell pepper, sliced (red or yellow for sweetness) - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon ginger, grated - 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium) - 1 tablespoon oyster sauce - 1 tablespoon sesame oil - 1 tablespoon cornstarch - 2 teaspoons brown sugar - 1 cup beef broth - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil - Cooked jasmine rice (for serving) When you gather these ingredients, keep in mind how they work together. The beef sirloin brings a rich flavor. Broccoli adds a nice crunch and bright color. Bell pepper provides sweetness, while garlic and ginger give depth. The sauces and seasonings are key for flavor. Soy sauce adds umami, and oyster sauce gives a slight sweetness. Sesame oil adds nuttiness, while brown sugar balances everything. Cornstarch thickens the sauce, making it cling to the meat and veggies. Finally, beef broth ties it all together, creating a savory base. Don’t forget the vegetable oil for cooking. It helps the beef brown nicely and prevents sticking. Serve this dish over jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the sauce and makes each bite delicious. Now, you have all the building blocks for a tasty meal. Enjoy the process of cooking and the wonderful flavors that come together! {{ingredient_image_1}} - Marinating the Beef First, take your beef sirloin. Slice it thinly. In a bowl, mix the beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, and sesame oil. This step adds flavor and helps tenderize the meat. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to soak up those tasty flavors. - Cooking in the Skillet Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef to the hot skillet. Stir-fry for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want the beef to brown but not overcook. Once done, remove the beef and set it aside. - Cooking Garlic and Ginger In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Now, toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté these for about 30 seconds. You want to smell that great aroma filling your kitchen. - Stir-frying Broccoli and Bell Pepper Next, add the broccoli florets and sliced bell pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3 to 5 minutes. You want them tender but still crisp. This adds color and crunch to your dish. - Returning Beef to Skillet Now, it’s time to bring the beef back. Add it to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the oyster sauce, brown sugar, and beef broth. Mix everything well to ensure the beef and veggies are coated in that delicious sauce. - Thicken the Sauce Cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken slightly. You want it to cling to the beef and veggies. Now, your dish is almost ready to be served! To get the perfect stir-fry, heat is key. Start by preheating your skillet or wok on medium-high heat. This helps to brown the beef quickly. If the pan is not hot enough, the beef will steam instead of sear. You want that nice brown crust for flavor. Cook your veggies just right. Stir-fry the broccoli and bell pepper for 3-5 minutes. You want them tender but still crisp. Overcooking makes them mushy and dull. Keep them bright and vibrant for the best taste. You can add extra flavors to your dish. Try a splash of rice vinegar for tang. A dash of chili flakes can add heat if you like spice. A bit of hoisin sauce can also boost sweetness. Feel free to experiment! Garnishing makes your dish look great. Consider topping with sesame seeds or sliced green onions. This adds a nice crunch and fresh flavor. It also makes your meal more appealing. If you have leftovers, use them wisely. Beef and broccoli can be added to soups or salads. You can even make a beef wrap with tortillas. This way, you waste less food and enjoy new meals. For a thick sauce, make sure to mix cornstarch with the beef. This helps create a nice glaze. If your sauce seems too thin, let it cook a bit longer. The heat will help it thicken up nicely. Pro Tips Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the beef to marinate for at least 15 minutes helps to enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat. High Heat for Stir-Frying: Use medium-high heat when stir-frying to achieve a nice sear on the beef and to keep the vegetables crisp. Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with a bit of water and add it to the skillet while cooking. Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh broccoli and bell peppers will not only improve the taste but also enhance the visual appeal of your dish. {{image_2}} You can switch up the protein in this dish. Here are two tasty options: - Chicken and Broccoli: Use 1 lb of thinly sliced chicken breast. Cook it the same way as the beef. It will give you a lighter flavor. - Tofu and Vegetable Variant: For a vegetarian option, use 14 oz firm tofu. Press and cube the tofu. Sauté it until golden for a nice texture. You can change the vegetables to add more flavor or color. Try these: - Carrots or Snap Peas: Add sliced carrots for sweetness or snap peas for crunch. Both can add nice color too. - Different Bell Peppers: Use green, orange, or even purple bell peppers. Each adds a unique taste and look to your meal. Think about what to serve with your beef and broccoli. Here are some ideas: - Ideas for Side Dishes: Serve with a simple salad or steamed dumplings. A light soup can also pair nicely. - Pairings with Rice or Noodles: Jasmine rice is great, but you can use brown rice or noodles. Both options soak up the sauce well and complete the meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the meal fresh and tasty. Make sure to let it cool first. It can stay in the fridge for 3-4 days. When you want to eat it again, simply reheat in a skillet. Heat it on medium until hot. You can also use a microwave. Just cover it and heat in short bursts. Stir in between to warm it evenly. To freeze your beef and broccoli, place it in a freezer-safe bag. Try to remove as much air as possible. This helps avoid freezer burn. You can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge. For quick thawing, place the bag in cold water. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Stir often to ensure it heats through evenly. The best cut of beef for stir-fry is beef sirloin. It is tender and cooks quickly. You can also use flank steak or ribeye. These cuts give great flavor and texture. Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just thaw it first and drain any excess water. This saves time and works well in the stir-fry. To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce. Check the labels to ensure other sauces are gluten-free too. This way, you can enjoy the meal without worry. If you don’t have oyster sauce, try hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and sugar. These options add a sweet and savory taste that works well. Cooking beef in a stir-fry takes about 3 to 4 minutes. You want it to be browned but not overcooked. Stir-frying quickly keeps the beef tender. You learned about making a tasty stir-fry with beef, veggies, and sauces. We covered steps like marinating beef and sautéing garlic and ginger. You gained tips on cooking the right way and avoiding mushy veggies. Don't forget options for variations and storage tips. Try your hand at this dish! Mix and match ingredients to find your favorite flavor. Enjoy your stir-fry and share your results with friends and family. Happy cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 15 minutes to prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean beef and fresh vegetables, it’s a nutritious meal option.
  3. Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic, ginger, and sauces creates an irresistible taste.
  4. Versatile Serving: Serve it over jasmine rice or noodles, allowing for customization to suit your preference.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin, thinly sliced

– 3 cups broccoli florets

– 1 bell pepper, sliced (red or yellow for sweetness)

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated

Sauces and Seasonings

– 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)

– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

– 1 tablespoon sesame oil

– 1 tablespoon cornstarch

– 2 teaspoons brown sugar

– 1 cup beef broth

Additional Items

– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

– Cooked jasmine rice (for serving)

When you gather these ingredients, keep in mind how they work together. The beef sirloin brings a rich flavor. Broccoli adds a nice crunch and bright color. Bell pepper provides sweetness, while garlic and ginger give depth.

The sauces and seasonings are key for flavor. Soy sauce adds umami, and oyster sauce gives a slight sweetness. Sesame oil adds nuttiness, while brown sugar balances everything. Cornstarch thickens the sauce, making it cling to the meat and veggies. Finally, beef broth ties it all together, creating a savory base.

Don’t forget the vegetable oil for cooking. It helps the beef brown nicely and prevents sticking. Serve this dish over jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the sauce and makes each bite delicious.

Now, you have all the building blocks for a tasty meal. Enjoy the process of cooking and the wonderful flavors that come together!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Beef

– Marinating the Beef

First, take your beef sirloin. Slice it thinly. In a bowl, mix the beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, and sesame oil. This step adds flavor and helps tenderize the meat. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to soak up those tasty flavors.

– Cooking in the Skillet

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef to the hot skillet. Stir-fry for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want the beef to brown but not overcook. Once done, remove the beef and set it aside.

Sautéing Vegetables

– Cooking Garlic and Ginger

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Now, toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté these for about 30 seconds. You want to smell that great aroma filling your kitchen.

– Stir-frying Broccoli and Bell Pepper

Next, add the broccoli florets and sliced bell pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3 to 5 minutes. You want them tender but still crisp. This adds color and crunch to your dish.

Combining Ingredients

– Returning Beef to Skillet

Now, it’s time to bring the beef back. Add it to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the oyster sauce, brown sugar, and beef broth. Mix everything well to ensure the beef and veggies are coated in that delicious sauce.

– Thicken the Sauce

Cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken slightly. You want it to cling to the beef and veggies. Now, your dish is almost ready to be served!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Stir-Fry

Achieving the Right Temperature

To get the perfect stir-fry, heat is key. Start by preheating your skillet or wok on medium-high heat. This helps to brown the beef quickly. If the pan is not hot enough, the beef will steam instead of sear. You want that nice brown crust for flavor.

Avoiding Overcooking the Vegetables

Cook your veggies just right. Stir-fry the broccoli and bell pepper for 3-5 minutes. You want them tender but still crisp. Overcooking makes them mushy and dull. Keep them bright and vibrant for the best taste.

Enhancing Flavor

Optional Seasonings

You can add extra flavors to your dish. Try a splash of rice vinegar for tang. A dash of chili flakes can add heat if you like spice. A bit of hoisin sauce can also boost sweetness. Feel free to experiment!

Garnishing Suggestions

Garnishing makes your dish look great. Consider topping with sesame seeds or sliced green onions. This adds a nice crunch and fresh flavor. It also makes your meal more appealing.

Cooking Tips

Using Leftovers

If you have leftovers, use them wisely. Beef and broccoli can be added to soups or salads. You can even make a beef wrap with tortillas. This way, you waste less food and enjoy new meals.

Ensuring Right Consistency

For a thick sauce, make sure to mix cornstarch with the beef. This helps create a nice glaze. If your sauce seems too thin, let it cook a bit longer. The heat will help it thicken up nicely.

Pro Tips

  1. Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the beef to marinate for at least 15 minutes helps to enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat.
  2. High Heat for Stir-Frying: Use medium-high heat when stir-frying to achieve a nice sear on the beef and to keep the vegetables crisp.
  3. Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with a bit of water and add it to the skillet while cooking.
  4. Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh broccoli and bell peppers will not only improve the taste but also enhance the visual appeal of your dish.

Variations

Protein Alternatives

You can switch up the protein in this dish. Here are two tasty options:

– Chicken and Broccoli: Use 1 lb of thinly sliced chicken breast. Cook it the same way as the beef. It will give you a lighter flavor.

– Tofu and Vegetable Variant: For a vegetarian option, use 14 oz firm tofu. Press and cube the tofu. Sauté it until golden for a nice texture.

Vegetable Substitutes

You can change the vegetables to add more flavor or color. Try these:

– Carrots or Snap Peas: Add sliced carrots for sweetness or snap peas for crunch. Both can add nice color too.

– Different Bell Peppers: Use green, orange, or even purple bell peppers. Each adds a unique taste and look to your meal.

Serving Suggestions

Think about what to serve with your beef and broccoli. Here are some ideas:

– Ideas for Side Dishes: Serve with a simple salad or steamed dumplings. A light soup can also pair nicely.

– Pairings with Rice or Noodles: Jasmine rice is great, but you can use brown rice or noodles. Both options soak up the sauce well and complete the meal.

Storage Info

Refrigerating Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the meal fresh and tasty. Make sure to let it cool first. It can stay in the fridge for 3-4 days. When you want to eat it again, simply reheat in a skillet. Heat it on medium until hot. You can also use a microwave. Just cover it and heat in short bursts. Stir in between to warm it evenly.

Freezing Options

To freeze your beef and broccoli, place it in a freezer-safe bag. Try to remove as much air as possible. This helps avoid freezer burn. You can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge. For quick thawing, place the bag in cold water. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Stir often to ensure it heats through evenly.

FAQs

What is the best cut of beef for stir-fry?

The best cut of beef for stir-fry is beef sirloin. It is tender and cooks quickly. You can also use flank steak or ribeye. These cuts give great flavor and texture.

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just thaw it first and drain any excess water. This saves time and works well in the stir-fry.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce. Check the labels to ensure other sauces are gluten-free too. This way, you can enjoy the meal without worry.

What can I substitute for oyster sauce?

If you don’t have oyster sauce, try hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and sugar. These options add a sweet and savory taste that works well.

How long does it take to cook beef in a stir-fry?

Cooking beef in a stir-fry takes about 3 to 4 minutes. You want it to be browned but not overcooked. Stir-frying quickly keeps the beef tender.

You learned about making a tasty stir-fry with beef, veggies, and sauces. We covered steps like marinating beef and sautéing garlic and ginger. You gained tips on cooking the right way and avoiding mushy veggies. Don’t forget options for variations and storage tips.

Try your hand at this dish! Mix and match ingredients to find your favorite flavor. Enjoy your stir-fry and share your results with friends and family. Happy cookin

- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin, thinly sliced - 3 cups broccoli florets - 1 bell pepper, sliced (red or yellow for sweetness) - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon ginger, grated - 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium) - 1 tablespoon oyster sauce - 1 tablespoon sesame oil - 1 tablespoon cornstarch - 2 teaspoons brown sugar - 1 cup beef broth - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil - Cooked jasmine rice (for serving) When you gather these ingredients, keep in mind how they work together. The beef sirloin brings a rich flavor. Broccoli adds a nice crunch and bright color. Bell pepper provides sweetness, while garlic and ginger give depth. The sauces and seasonings are key for flavor. Soy sauce adds umami, and oyster sauce gives a slight sweetness. Sesame oil adds nuttiness, while brown sugar balances everything. Cornstarch thickens the sauce, making it cling to the meat and veggies. Finally, beef broth ties it all together, creating a savory base. Don’t forget the vegetable oil for cooking. It helps the beef brown nicely and prevents sticking. Serve this dish over jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the sauce and makes each bite delicious. Now, you have all the building blocks for a tasty meal. Enjoy the process of cooking and the wonderful flavors that come together! {{ingredient_image_1}} - Marinating the Beef First, take your beef sirloin. Slice it thinly. In a bowl, mix the beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, and sesame oil. This step adds flavor and helps tenderize the meat. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to soak up those tasty flavors. - Cooking in the Skillet Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef to the hot skillet. Stir-fry for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want the beef to brown but not overcook. Once done, remove the beef and set it aside. - Cooking Garlic and Ginger In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Now, toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté these for about 30 seconds. You want to smell that great aroma filling your kitchen. - Stir-frying Broccoli and Bell Pepper Next, add the broccoli florets and sliced bell pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3 to 5 minutes. You want them tender but still crisp. This adds color and crunch to your dish. - Returning Beef to Skillet Now, it’s time to bring the beef back. Add it to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the oyster sauce, brown sugar, and beef broth. Mix everything well to ensure the beef and veggies are coated in that delicious sauce. - Thicken the Sauce Cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken slightly. You want it to cling to the beef and veggies. Now, your dish is almost ready to be served! To get the perfect stir-fry, heat is key. Start by preheating your skillet or wok on medium-high heat. This helps to brown the beef quickly. If the pan is not hot enough, the beef will steam instead of sear. You want that nice brown crust for flavor. Cook your veggies just right. Stir-fry the broccoli and bell pepper for 3-5 minutes. You want them tender but still crisp. Overcooking makes them mushy and dull. Keep them bright and vibrant for the best taste. You can add extra flavors to your dish. Try a splash of rice vinegar for tang. A dash of chili flakes can add heat if you like spice. A bit of hoisin sauce can also boost sweetness. Feel free to experiment! Garnishing makes your dish look great. Consider topping with sesame seeds or sliced green onions. This adds a nice crunch and fresh flavor. It also makes your meal more appealing. If you have leftovers, use them wisely. Beef and broccoli can be added to soups or salads. You can even make a beef wrap with tortillas. This way, you waste less food and enjoy new meals. For a thick sauce, make sure to mix cornstarch with the beef. This helps create a nice glaze. If your sauce seems too thin, let it cook a bit longer. The heat will help it thicken up nicely. Pro Tips Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the beef to marinate for at least 15 minutes helps to enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat. High Heat for Stir-Frying: Use medium-high heat when stir-frying to achieve a nice sear on the beef and to keep the vegetables crisp. Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with a bit of water and add it to the skillet while cooking. Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh broccoli and bell peppers will not only improve the taste but also enhance the visual appeal of your dish. {{image_2}} You can switch up the protein in this dish. Here are two tasty options: - Chicken and Broccoli: Use 1 lb of thinly sliced chicken breast. Cook it the same way as the beef. It will give you a lighter flavor. - Tofu and Vegetable Variant: For a vegetarian option, use 14 oz firm tofu. Press and cube the tofu. Sauté it until golden for a nice texture. You can change the vegetables to add more flavor or color. Try these: - Carrots or Snap Peas: Add sliced carrots for sweetness or snap peas for crunch. Both can add nice color too. - Different Bell Peppers: Use green, orange, or even purple bell peppers. Each adds a unique taste and look to your meal. Think about what to serve with your beef and broccoli. Here are some ideas: - Ideas for Side Dishes: Serve with a simple salad or steamed dumplings. A light soup can also pair nicely. - Pairings with Rice or Noodles: Jasmine rice is great, but you can use brown rice or noodles. Both options soak up the sauce well and complete the meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the meal fresh and tasty. Make sure to let it cool first. It can stay in the fridge for 3-4 days. When you want to eat it again, simply reheat in a skillet. Heat it on medium until hot. You can also use a microwave. Just cover it and heat in short bursts. Stir in between to warm it evenly. To freeze your beef and broccoli, place it in a freezer-safe bag. Try to remove as much air as possible. This helps avoid freezer burn. You can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge. For quick thawing, place the bag in cold water. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Stir often to ensure it heats through evenly. The best cut of beef for stir-fry is beef sirloin. It is tender and cooks quickly. You can also use flank steak or ribeye. These cuts give great flavor and texture. Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just thaw it first and drain any excess water. This saves time and works well in the stir-fry. To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce. Check the labels to ensure other sauces are gluten-free too. This way, you can enjoy the meal without worry. If you don’t have oyster sauce, try hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and sugar. These options add a sweet and savory taste that works well. Cooking beef in a stir-fry takes about 3 to 4 minutes. You want it to be browned but not overcooked. Stir-frying quickly keeps the beef tender. You learned about making a tasty stir-fry with beef, veggies, and sauces. We covered steps like marinating beef and sautéing garlic and ginger. You gained tips on cooking the right way and avoiding mushy veggies. Don't forget options for variations and storage tips. Try your hand at this dish! Mix and match ingredients to find your favorite flavor. Enjoy your stir-fry and share your results with friends and family. Happy cooking!

Beef and Broccoli Delight

A savory stir-fry featuring tender beef and crisp broccoli in a flavorful sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
  • 3 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 whole bell pepper, sliced (red or yellow for sweetness)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 teaspoons brown sugar
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • as needed serving cooked jasmine rice

Instructions
 

  • In a bowl, mix the sliced beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil and sauté the minced garlic and grated ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add the broccoli florets and bell pepper slices to the skillet, and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.
  • Return the beef to the skillet, and stir in the oyster sauce, brown sugar, and beef broth. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
  • Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  • Serve hot over a bed of jasmine rice, garnished with sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired.

Notes

Serve with jasmine rice and garnish with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.
Keyword beef, broccoli, quick meal, stir-fry

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