Beef and Broccoli (30 Minutes!)
This Beef and Broccoli (30 Minutes!) recipe is a game changer for busy weeknights! With a rich, savory sauce that’s prepared in no time, this dish brings the flavors of your favorite takeout into your kitchen. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it’s both satisfying and affordable. You’ll love how quickly you can whip it up while enjoying a delicious homemade meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Flavor-Packed Sauce: The homemade sauce is both addictive and easy to prepare from scratch.
- Budget-Friendly: Enjoy restaurant-quality food without breaking the bank.
- Versatile: Perfect for serving over rice or noodles, catering to various tastes and preferences.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a nutritious option for any meal.
Tools and Preparation
To make this easy beef and broccoli dish, having the right tools will streamline your cooking process.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking beef and broccoli evenly without overcrowding.
- Whisk: Ensures all sauce ingredients combine smoothly, creating that perfect glaze.
- Chef’s knife: Allows for precise slicing of flank steak, ensuring tender bites every time.
Ingredients
For the Beef
- 1 pound flank steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
For the Broccoli
- 3-4 cups broccoli florets (see note)
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (see note)
- 1/4 cup (packed) brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
How to Make Beef and Broccoli (30 Minutes!)
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
First, prep everything ahead of time as the actual cooking part goes very quickly. To prep the steak:
1. Trim off any fat from the flank steak.
2. Slice it across the grain into very thin bite-size pieces.
3. In a bowl, add all sauce ingredients together and whisk thoroughly.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
Next, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over high heat:
1. Allow the pan to heat up for a few minutes until the oil shimmers.
2. Add broccoli florets and cook for 4-5 minutes, tossing often until tender-crisp.
3. Transfer cooked broccoli to a plate.
Step 3: Sear the Beef
Now it’s time to cook the beef:
1. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet.
2. Sprinkle beef pieces into the pan in a single layer without stirring immediately.
3. After one minute, stir or flip with tongs; cook for another minute until slightly rare.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Finally, bring it all together:
1. Return broccoli to the skillet with beef.
2. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir/toss until everything is well-coated.
3. Cook until sauce thickens (about 1-3 minutes), then remove from heat.
Serve immediately for a delicious meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes! Enjoy your homemade Beef and Broccoli!
How to Serve Beef and Broccoli (30 Minutes!)
Beef and broccoli is versatile and can be served in various ways to suit different tastes. Whether you prefer it over rice or alongside other dishes, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.
Over Rice
- Serve the beef and broccoli on a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
With Noodles
- Pair it with stir-fried noodles for a heartier dish that adds texture and flavor.
In Lettuce Wraps
- For a lighter option, serve the beef and broccoli in crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh twist.
As a Grain Bowl
- Combine it with quinoa or farro, topped with additional veggies for a nutritious grain bowl.
With Extra Sauce
- Drizzle extra sauce over the top for those who love a little more flavor in each bite.
How to Perfect Beef and Broccoli (30 Minutes!)
To make your beef and broccoli even better, consider these helpful tips for perfecting the dish every time you cook it.
- Marinate the Beef – Allowing the beef to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavor and tenderness.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh broccoli and ginger will give your dish vibrant flavors that dried or old ingredients can’t match.
- Cook Quickly – Stir-frying at high heat keeps the beef tender while ensuring the broccoli remains crisp.
- Adjust Spice Level – Feel free to add more crushed red pepper flakes if you like more heat in your dish.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking without steaming the ingredients.
- Rest Before Serving – Letting it sit for a minute after cooking allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Beef and Broccoli (30 Minutes!)
Serving beef and broccoli can be complemented with a variety of side dishes. Here are some excellent options:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice – A classic choice that absorbs all those flavorful juices from the beef and broccoli.
- Garlic Fried Rice – Adds an aromatic twist that pairs wonderfully with the savory sauce.
- Egg Rolls – These crispy delights provide a crunchy contrast to the tender beef and vegetables.
- Cucumber Salad – A refreshing side that balances out the richness of the main dish with its coolness.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables – More veggies add color, nutrition, and texture; try bell peppers or snap peas!
- Miso Soup – A light soup that complements Asian flavors perfectly without overpowering them.
- Spring Rolls – Lightly filled rolls offer a fresh crunch that enhances your dining experience.
- Sesame Noodles – These flavorful noodles make an excellent pairing with beef and broccoli’s rich sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Beef and Broccoli can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin the dish. Here are some tips to help you succeed.
- Overcooking the Beef: Cooking the beef too long will make it tough. Aim for a little pink in the center; it will cook more after adding the sauce.
- Using Low-Quality Soy Sauce: The soy sauce is crucial for flavor. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness, but ensure it’s good quality.
- Not Prepping Ingredients Ahead of Time: This recipe cooks quickly! Have all your ingredients ready to go before you start cooking.
- Ignoring Cooking Times for Broccoli: Overcooked broccoli loses its vibrant color and crunch. Cook it just until tender-crisp for the best texture.
- Skipping the Marinade Step: Marinating the beef briefly enhances its flavor and tenderness. Don’t skip this step for better results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Beef and Broccoli (30 Minutes!)
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Best if consumed within 2 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Beef and Broccoli (30 Minutes!)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot. Use a microwave-safe dish.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, stirring often.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Beef and Broccoli.
How long does it take to make Beef and Broccoli (30 Minutes!)?
This recipe takes a total of 30 minutes, including both prep and cooking time.
Can I use other vegetables in Beef and Broccoli?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.
Is this Beef and Broccoli recipe healthy?
Yes! With lean flank steak and lots of broccoli, this dish is packed with protein and vitamins while being lower in calories than takeout.
What can I serve with Beef and Broccoli?
Serve with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles to soak up that delicious sauce!
Final Thoughts
This easy Beef and Broccoli recipe is not only quick but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level. Enjoy a homemade meal that’s just as satisfying as takeout without breaking the bank!
Beef and Broccoli (30 Minutes!)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Beef and Broccoli (30 Minutes!) is your go-to recipe for a quick, delicious dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This flavorful dish combines tender flank steak with crisp broccoli, all enveloped in a savory homemade sauce that rivals your favorite takeout. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a satisfying meal that’s not only budget-friendly but also packed with protein and nutrients. Whether you enjoy it over rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps, this versatile dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Get ready to enjoy a cozy homemade dinner without the hassle!
Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak
- 3–4 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1/4 cup (packed) brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
Instructions
- Trim and slice the flank steak against the grain into thin pieces.
- Whisk together soy sauce, water, vinegar, sesame oil, brown sugar, cornstarch, ginger, and garlic in a bowl.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add broccoli and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp. Remove and set aside.
- Add remaining olive oil to the skillet. Cook beef in a single layer for about 2 minutes until slightly rare.
- Return broccoli to skillet, pour in the sauce, and cook until thickened (1-3 minutes). Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
