Easy Beef and Broccoli Recipe: Quick & Delicious Dinner!

There’s something incredibly comforting about a steaming plate of beef and broccoli, isn’t there? This classic dish, often found in Chinese restaurants, combines tender beef with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. It’s a delicious meal option that’s not only easy to make but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, you’ll find this easy beef and broccoli recipe satisfying and rewarding. Let’s dive into this culinary delight!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Beef and Broccoli Recipe

Beef and broccoli is more than just a comfort dish; it’s a fantastic blend of flavors and textures. The tender beef contrasts nicely with the vibrant broccoli, all coated in a glossy, flavorful sauce. Here are a few reasons why this recipe is a must-try:

• Quick Preparation: Ready in about 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and vitamins, beef and broccoli makes for a healthy meal.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, accessible ingredients commonly found in most kitchens.

Let’s get started on this delightful dish that is sure to impress family and friends alike!

Ingredients for Beef and Broccoli

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious meal:

• For the Beef Marinade:

  • 1 lb beef flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• For the Broccoli:

  • 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for stir-frying)

• For the Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup beef broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry for thickening)

Optional Substitutions:

• Protein: Swap beef for chicken, tofu, or shrimp.
• Vegetables: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrition.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful beef and broccoli dish:

Preparation

1. Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine the beef slices, soy sauce, cornstarch, and vegetable oil. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

2. Prepare the Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, wash and cut it into florets. If using frozen, simply set it aside as it will cook quickly later.

Cooking

3. Cook the Broccoli: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

4. Sear the Beef: In the same skillet, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Allow it to sear for about 2 minutes on each side until it’s browned. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.

5. Make the Sauce: Once the beef is cooked, add minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the soy sauce, beef broth, oyster sauce (if using), brown sugar, and sesame oil. Stir gently to combine.

6. Thicken the Sauce: Gradually stir in the cornstarch slurry to the sauce, mixing until it thickens (1-2 minutes).

7. Combine Everything: Return the cooked broccoli to the skillet, stirring to coat it evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.

8. Serve: Slide your delicious beef and broccoli onto plates. Enjoy your meal warm with steamed rice or noodles.

Cooking Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content per serving:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320
Protein	30g
Total Fat	15g
Saturated Fat	3g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	5g

Tips for Perfect Beef and Broccoli

• Slice Against the Grain: This ensures the beef remains tender and easy to chew.
• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Keep it vibrant and crunchy by not overcooking.
• Adjust the Sauce: Feel free to tweak the soy sauce or add more sugar to suit your taste!

Do’s and Don’ts

• Do: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Do: Cook the beef in batches if your skillet isn’t big enough.
• Don’t: Let the beef sit too long in the marinade, as it can become mushy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can. Just make sure it’s fully thawed before slicing.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Substitute soy sauce with tamari and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or even mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently before serving.

Visual Elements

• Image Placeholder Description: A vibrant plate of beef and broccoli served over steamed rice, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, showcasing the dish’s rich colors.
• Infographic Suggestion: Include a cooking time chart for different proteins, showing how long to cook beef, chicken, and tofu for this recipe.

Conclusion

This easy beef and broccoli recipe is perfect for anyone looking to create a delicious, nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, you can enjoy this classic dish anytime. Don’t forget to share your cooking experience on social media or in cooking groups! Your friends and family will appreciate the tasty meal you’ve prepared, and you might even inspire them to try it too.

So, gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking! Enjoy every bite of this wholesome meal. Happy cooking!