Craving Chinese takeout but want something healthier, fresher, and even more delicious? This Better-Than-Takeout Beef with Broccoli is quick, easy, and packed with bold flavors—all in under 30 minutes!
Tender juicy beef, crisp garlicky broccoli, and a rich, savory stir-fry sauce come together in this restaurant-quality dish that you can make right at home. Whether you’re following a low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diet, this dish is easy to customize and tastes better than your favorite takeout spot!
🥩 Ingredients for Beef with Broccoli
For the Beef:
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin (thinly sliced against the grain)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (or arrowroot powder for a gluten-free option)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a low-sodium alternative)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
For the Sauce:
- ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- ⅓ cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, for umami depth)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (or honey for a natural sweetener)
- 2 tsp fresh ginger (grated)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp cornstarch (for thickening)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
For the Broccoli:
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- ½ cup water
Garnish (Optional):
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
🍳 How to Make Better-Than-Takeout Beef with Broccoli
Step 1: Prep the Beef
- Slice the flank steak into thin strips (cut against the grain for tenderness).
- Toss the beef with soy sauce and cornstarch, letting it sit for 10 minutes. This helps tenderize the meat and gives it a crispy texture when stir-fried.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, beef broth, oyster sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated beef and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
- Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Steam the Broccoli
- In the same pan, add broccoli florets and ½ cup water.
- Cover and steam for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp, then drain any excess water.
Step 5: Combine & Finish
- Return the cooked beef to the pan with the broccoli.
- Pour the stir-fry sauce over the top, stirring until the sauce thickens and coats everything (about 1-2 minutes).
- Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve hot over steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles.
🍽 Servings & Cooking Time
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
🔥 Variations & Substitutions
- Make It Spicy: Add sriracha, extra red pepper flakes, or chili oil.
- Swap the Protein: Use chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead of beef.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch.
- Low-Carb/Keto Version: Serve over cauliflower rice and use monk fruit sweetener instead of brown sugar.
❄️ Storage & Reheating
Refrigeration:
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
- Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating:
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or beef broth.
🤔 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What’s the best cut of beef for this recipe?
Flank steak or sirloin works best because they’re tender and cook quickly.
2. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Just thaw and drain it before cooking.
3. What can I use instead of cornstarch?
Try arrowroot powder or tapioca starch for a gluten-free option.
4. How do I make this recipe sweeter?
Add extra brown sugar, honey, or a splash of hoisin sauce.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Cook everything and store it in the fridge. Reheat before serving for the best texture.
6. What’s the secret to tender beef?
Marinate the beef with soy sauce and cornstarch for at least 10 minutes before cooking.
7. Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Follow the same steps but cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side.
8. How do I thicken the sauce more?
Mix ½ tsp extra cornstarch with 1 tbsp cold water, then stir it into the sauce.
9. What should I serve with Beef and Broccoli?
Try it with steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or stir-fried noodles.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to cook the beef in batches so it doesn’t steam.
🍴 Final Thoughts – Why You Need to Try This Recipe!
This Better-Than-Takeout Beef with Broccoli is the perfect homemade version of a takeout favorite! It’s faster than delivery, budget-friendly, and full of bold, delicious flavors. Once you try it, you’ll never want to order takeout again!
Looking for more better-than-takeout recipes? Try this Homemade Orange Chicken for another quick & tasty meal!
👉 Try this recipe tonight and let me know how it turns out! 🥢🔥