A Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe
Introduction
Bring your favorite takeout flavors straight to your kitchen with this Chinese Beef and Broccoli — a fast, flavorful, and wholesome stir-fry that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Tender slices of flank steak, crisp-tender broccoli, garlic, and ginger are tossed in a glossy, savory sauce that’s rich in umami flavor. It’s healthier, faster, and tastier than takeout — ready in just 25 minutes! Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a complete, satisfying meal your family will love.
💛 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 25 minutes: Quick, easy, and perfect for weeknights.
- Better than takeout: Fresh ingredients and authentic flavor.
- Perfectly balanced: Tender beef, crisp broccoli, and rich savory sauce.
- Family-friendly: A great introduction to Asian-inspired meals.
- Meal prep winner: Reheats beautifully for lunch or dinner.
⏱️ Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
🍳 Ingredients
For the Beef & Marinade:
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce (optional but adds color)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For the Stir-Fry:
- 2 tablespoons peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced
For the Sauce:
- ½ cup chicken stock
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
🥣 Instructions
- Marinate the beef:
In a medium bowl, combine flank steak, baking soda, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and cornstarch. Toss well and let marinate for 10–15 minutes while prepping the rest. - Cook the broccoli:
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add broccoli and a splash of water; stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Remove and set aside. - Sear the beef:
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil to the pan. Add marinated beef in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until browned. Remove excess liquid if needed. - Add aromatics:
Stir in minced garlic and ginger; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. - Make the sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk chicken stock, soy sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch slurry. Pour over the beef and stir until thickened. - Combine everything:
Add broccoli back to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook another 1–2 minutes until heated through. - Serve:
Enjoy immediately over steamed jasmine rice or noodles.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve with white or brown rice, or lo mein noodles.
- Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions.
- Add extra chili flakes or sriracha for heat.
🧊 Storage & Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
- Avoid overcooking to keep beef tender and broccoli crisp.