This Chinese Beef and Broccoli (One Pan Take-Out)
Ever find yourself craving Chinese take-out on a busy weeknight, but wishing it were faster, lighter, and homemade? That’s exactly where this Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe comes in. It delivers all the bold, savory flavors you love from your favorite restaurant but made in just one pan, right in your own kitchen.
This dish is one of the best beef recipes to keep in your rotation flavorful, quick, and made with simple ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and crisp broccoli.
Table of Contents
Chinese Beef and Broccoli (One Pan Take-Out)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Toss sliced beef with cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Let marinate while prepping other ingredients.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add beef in a single layer and sear until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add broccoli and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes. Add a splash of water and cover for 1–2 minutes to steam. Remove lid and stir.
- Add garlic and ginger; sauté 30 seconds. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, beef broth, sesame oil, and brown sugar (if using). Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Return beef to the pan. Toss everything together until coated and heated through. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot.
Notes
Ingredients
This Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients that work together beautifully.
- Thinly sliced beef (flank steak, sirloin, or skirt steak)
- Fresh broccoli florets
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh ginger, grated
- Soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- Oyster sauce
- Cornstarch
- Beef broth or water
- Sesame oil
- Vegetable oil
- Brown sugar or honey (optional, for balance)
- Black pepper
💡 Tip: For other stir-fry favorites, try their Delicious Shaking Beef Recipe for a Vietnamese twist!
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
That’s faster than most take-out deliveries and perfect for fast dinner recipes on busy evenings.
Step-by-Step Instructions
For similar fast dinners, check out their One Pot Chicken and Rice or Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Beef both quick and cozy.
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
In a bowl, toss the sliced beef with cornstarch and a splash of soy sauce. This helps tenderize the meat and creates that classic glossy sauce.
Why it works: Cornstarch is essential in many Chinese cooking recipes for texture and sauce consistency.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the beef in a single layer and sear quickly until browned. Remove and set aside.
Pro tip: Cook the beef in batches if needed crowding the pan will steam instead of sear.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in broccoli florets and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Add a splash of water and cover briefly to steam.
This step keeps the broccoli crisp, making this one of those healthy food dishes that still feel indulgent.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Add garlic and ginger to the pan and sauté briefly. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, beef broth, sesame oil, and a touch of sugar if using. Let the sauce simmer until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the beef to the pan and toss everything together until coated and heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning with black pepper or more soy sauce if needed.
This final step brings everything together into a classic Chinese Beef and Broccoli flavor profile.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximate):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
This recipe balances protein and vegetables well, making it a strong option for healthy dinner recipes that don’t sacrifice taste.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce
- Lower Sodium: Reduce soy sauce and increase broth
- Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms
These swaps keep the dish flexible and suitable for many healthy food dishes preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chinese Beef and Broccoli with:
- Steamed jasmine or brown rice
- Quinoa for extra protein
- Rice noodles or zucchini noodles
Pair with a light cucumber salad or spring rolls for a complete beef dinner experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the beef, which makes it tough
- Using frozen broccoli, which releases too much water
- Skipping high heat, essential for proper stir-fry texture
Avoiding these mistakes ensures your easy beef and broccoli tastes just like take-out—if not better.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth
- Meal Prep: Slice beef and prep sauce ahead for ultra-fast co
- oking
This makes it ideal for weekly meal planning and fast dinners.
Conclusion
This Chinese Beef and Broccoli proves that one-pan, take-out-style meals can be wholesome, easy, and packed with flavor. Save this for your list of go-to weeknight recipes and don’t forget to try it alongside their Grilled Beef Ribs or Boneless Beef Short Ribs when you need a meaty upgrade
Try it tonight, and don’t forget to explore more Chinese cooking recipes and beef dinner ideas for busy weeknights.
📌 Want More Inspiration?
✅ Follow their visual boards here:
👉 Pinterest – Healthy Magic Recipes
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, thinly sliced chicken breast works well for a lighter version.
What’s the best cut of beef for this recipe?
Flank steak or sirloin are ideal for tenderness.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it’s high in protein and vegetables, fitting many healthy dinner recipes.
Can I make it spicy?
Absolutely add red pepper flakes or chili garlic sauce.
Does this freeze well?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but can be frozen for up to 1 month.
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