There’s something truly satisfying about creating a vibrant, restaurant-quality meal at home, and this Beef and Broccolini Stir-Fry does just that. Picture this: tender, juicy steak paired with crisp broccolini, all enveloped in a savory sauce that captures those delicious take-out flavors we crave. After a long day of juggling responsibilities, the last thing you want is to resort to fast food, and that’s where this 30-minute recipe shines. With a few fresh ingredients and your trusty skillet, you can whip up something that not only excites the palate but also nourishes the body. So, let’s dive into an easy, healthful weeknight dinner that’s sure to impress—even if it’s just for yourself!
Why is this Beef And Broccolini Stir Fry a Must-Try?
Speedy Preparation: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, coming together in just 30 minutes.
Fresh Ingredients: Dine on crisp broccolini and succulent steak, all swimming in a savory sauce that completely outshines fast food.
Health-conscious Choice: Packed with high protein and vitamins, this dish supports your wellness goals without compromising on flavor.
Versatility: Easily switch up the veggies for a personalized twist—try snap peas or bell peppers for added crunch!
Impressive Flavor: With its blend of umami-rich sauces and aromatic garlic and ginger, your taste buds will sing with delight.
Crowd-Pleasing Meal: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, everyone will love this colorful dish—great for the whole family!
Beef And Broccolini Stir Fry Ingredients
To whip up this mouthwatering Beef and Broccolini Stir-Fry, gather these fresh ingredients!
For the Beef
- Flank steak – The main protein providing rich flavor; substitute with skirt, hanger, or Denver steak for similar tenderness.
- Baking soda – Helps tenderize the beef; use for only 15 minutes to avoid texture changes.
- Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce while coating the beef; no substitutions needed.
- Vegetable oil – For frying, enhances crispiness; you can also use avocado oil for a healthier alternative.
- Soy sauce – Adds umami flavor; using low-sodium soy sauce can help control salt levels.
For the Sauce
- Low-sodium chicken stock or water – Liquid base for the sauce; substitute with vegetable broth or water.
- Honey – Provides sweetness to balance flavors; consider brown sugar as a substitute.
- Oyster sauce – Adds depth of flavor; use teriyaki or hoisin sauce if avoiding oyster sauce.
- Sesame oil – Enriches the flavor profile; regular oil works as a substitute, but the taste may change.
- Sambal Oelek – Optional for a spicy kick; omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
For the Vegetables
- Broccolini – Main vegetable packed with nutrition and crispness; you can substitute with broccoli florets if desired.
- Garlic – Essential aromatic ingredient for depth of flavor; no substitutions required.
- Fresh ginger – Adds warmth and spice; ground ginger may work in a pinch.
- Green onions – Optional garnish for freshness; feel free to skip if you don’t have them.
Now that you have all the essential ingredients for this Beef and Broccolini Stir-Fry, you’re ready to start cooking a delicious weeknight meal!
How to Make Beef and Broccolini Stir-Fry
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Prepare Beef: In a mixing bowl, toss the flank steak with baking soda, cornstarch, vegetable oil, and soy sauce. Let it marinate for 15 minutes while you get your other ingredients ready for a quick finish.
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Make Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the low-sodium chicken stock, soy sauce, honey, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and Sambal Oelek. Add a bit of cornstarch and set it aside; this sauce will bring together all those delicious flavors!
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Cook Beef: Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over high heat. Add the marinated beef in a single layer, cooking for 1 to 1.5 minutes until crispy on one side, then flip and cook for another 2 minutes until medium-rare. Once done, transfer it to a plate.
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Cook Broccolini: Lower the heat to medium-high and toss in the broccolini. Let it cook undisturbed for 1 minute, then add a splash of water and cover the skillet to steam it until tender yet crisp (about 2 minutes). Transfer to the plate with the beef.
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Finish Stir-Fry: Add a little more oil, then throw in your garlic and ginger. Sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Pour in the prepared sauce and stir until it thickens (another 30 seconds). Finally, return the beef and broccolini to the pan, tossing everything to coat perfectly.
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Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions if desired and serve this tasty stir-fry over fluffy white rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Beef and Broccolini Stir-Fry
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Marinating Time: Limit marination to 15 minutes; exceeding this time alters the beef texture, affecting the mouthfeel of your Beef and Broccolini Stir-Fry.
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High Heat Cooking: Use high heat to achieve that coveted crispy texture. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the beef will steam instead of sear.
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Taste Balance: Adjust the sauce balance to your liking; if you prefer a saucier dish, enhance it with extra chicken stock or water without overwhelming it.
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Steaming Broccolini: For perfectly tender yet crisp broccolini, steam quickly and keep covered just long enough to cook. Overcooking will lead to mushy veggies.
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Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables and slice the beef a day in advance. This allows for a quick assembly, perfect for busy weeknights.
How to Store and Freeze Beef and Broccolini Stir-Fry
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps your Beef and Broccolini Stir-Fry tasting fresh and ready for a quick meal.
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Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze the stir-fry in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. This is a great way to enjoy your favorite dish later!
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Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. This enhances the flavors without drying out the beef.
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Avoid Freezing Sauce: If possible, freeze the beef and broccolini separately from the sauce to maintain optimal texture. Combine when reheating for the best experience!
Beef And Broccolini Stir Fry Variations
Feel free to play with this beloved recipe and make it your own!
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Vegetable Medley: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots to introduce different textures and vibrant colors. Each vegetable brings their unique flavor to the dish!
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Low-Carb Twist: Serve the stir-fry over a bed of shredded lettuce or zoodles for a fresh, low-carb take. It’s a fun way to enjoy a meal without the carbs!
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Saucy Delight: Increase the sauce quantity by adding extra chicken stock for a more generous coating. Ideal for rice lovers who crave dousing their grains!
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Quinoa Base: Swap out rice for cooked quinoa for a protein-packed alternative that complements the dish beautifully. A nutty flavor with added health benefits!
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Spicy Kick: Adjust the heat level by adding Sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. Spice up your life with a little extra heat!
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Vegan Version: Replace the beef with marinated tofu and substitute oyster sauce with a plant-based alternative. You won’t miss the meat with this hearty swap!
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Sweet and Sour: Mix in some pineapple chunks during the last moments of cooking for a delightful sweet and sour flavor. A tropical twist that will surprise your taste buds!
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a fresh burst of flavor that elevates the dish. Herbaceous notes brighten up the entire stir-fry!
Make Ahead Options
These Beef and Broccolini Stir-Fry components are perfect for meal prep, saving precious time on busy weeknights! You can slice the flank steak and marinate it for up to 24 hours in advance to ensure maximum flavor. Additionally, the broccolini can be washed and cut up to 3 days ahead; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its crispness. When you’re ready to cook, simply bring the marinated beef to room temperature before stir-frying as recommended. Finish by cooking the dish according to the instructions, and you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal waiting for you with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Beef and Broccolini Stir-Fry?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this quick, flavorful dish with some delightful sides that enhance its vibrant taste.
- Fluffy White Rice: The perfect canvas for soaking up the savory sauce, making every bite a delightful experience.
- Garlic Noodles: These buttery, aromatic noodles complement the stir-fry with a hint of rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the beef.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: A textural contrast that adds crunch and freshness to your meal, enhancing the overall dining experience with an Asian flair.
- Miso Soup: Light and umami-rich, this warming soup acts as a gentle palate cleanser between bites of your robust stir-fry.
- Chilled Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and zesty, the coolness of cucumbers offsets the warmth of the dish while adding a lovely crunch.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Infused with fragrant notes, this rice brings an aromatic touch that complements the beef without overpowering it.
- Sesame-Ginger Dressing: Drizzle over a garden salad to add a hint of Asian influence, enhancing the meal’s overall harmony and zest.
- Chardonnay: A crisp, dry white wine that balances the dish’s savory notes and elevates your dining experience to a restaurant level.
Beef and Broccolini Stir-Fry Recipe FAQs
What type of beef should I use for this Beef and Broccolini Stir-Fry?
For the best flavor and tenderness, I recommend using flank steak. However, you can also substitute it with skirt, hanger, or Denver steak for similar results. The key is to choose a cut that has a good balance of tenderness and flavor.
How should I store leftovers from this Beef and Broccolini Stir-Fry?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just ensure it’s cooled down before sealing it to prevent condensation. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat it in a skillet for the best texture and warmth!
Can I freeze the Beef and Broccolini Stir-Fry?
Absolutely! You can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. I recommend separating the sauce from the stir-fry. This helps maintain the texture. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
What should I do if my beef is tough after cooking?
If your beef ends up tough, it might be due to overcooking or not marinating long enough. For the best results, always marinate for exactly 15 minutes, and make sure to cook the beef in a hot pan for a short time. If you find it tough, try slicing it thinner next time or using a meat mallet to tenderize before cooking.
Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
While this Beef and Broccolini Stir-Fry is versatile, it does contain common allergens such as soy and sesame. If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, consider using a gluten-free soy sauce and omitting the sesame oil. Always double-check other ingredient labels to ensure they meet dietary needs.
How can I tell when the broccolini is cooked perfectly?
The key is to steam the broccolini just enough to make it tender yet crisp—about 2 minutes should do the trick. It should be bright green and slightly tender but not limp. To achieve this, add your splash of water and cover the pan for a quick steam, keeping an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Beef and Broccolini Stir-Fry: Quick, Flavor-Packed Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Beef: In a mixing bowl, toss the flank steak with baking soda, cornstarch, vegetable oil, and soy sauce. Let it marinate for 15 minutes while you get your other ingredients ready.
- Make Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the low-sodium chicken stock, soy sauce, honey, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and Sambal Oelek. Add a bit of cornstarch and set it aside.
- Cook Beef: Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over high heat. Add the marinated beef, cooking for 1 to 1.5 minutes until crispy on one side, then flip and cook for another 2 minutes until medium-rare.
- Cook Broccolini: Lower heat to medium-high and add the broccolini. Cook undisturbed for 1 minute, then add a splash of water and cover to steam until tender yet crisp (about 2 minutes).
- Finish Stir-Fry: Add more oil, then sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir until thickened. Return beef and broccolini to the pan, tossing to coat.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions if desired and serve over fluffy white rice or noodles.