Chinese Beef and Broccoli (One Pan Take-Out)

There’s a reason Chinese Beef and Broccoli is one of the most beloved dishes on take-out menus across America — it’s fast, flavorful, and satisfies that craving for something savory, saucy, and loaded with tender beef and crisp broccoli. But did you know you can make this iconic dish right at home in just one pan?

This homemade version is not only faster than delivery but also lets you control the ingredients, making it a healthier and more affordable option. One-pan meals are a hit for busy weeknights, and this Chinese Beef and Broccoli stir-fry is no exception. If you’re unsure which cut of beef to use, the USDA Beef Cuts Guide can help you choose the perfect one for your stir-fry.beef and broccoliThis homemade version is not only faster than delivery but also lets you control the ingredients, making it a healthier and more affordable option. One-pan meals are a hit for busy weeknights, and this Chinese Beef and Broccoli stir-fry is no exception. If you’re unsure which cut of beef to use, the USDA Beef Cuts Guide can help you choose the perfect one for your stir-fry.

Plus, by using a simple combination of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a few pantry staples, you can recreate the rich umami flavor of take-out right at home. Stir-frying in oil? The Harvard Guide to Healthy Cooking Oils breaks down the best oils for high-heat cooking like this.

Why One-Pan Recipes Are a Game Changer

One-pan meals offer so many benefits:

• Minimal cleanup
• Quick cooking time
• Balanced meals with protein and veggies
• Perfect for small kitchens or busy nights

This recipe lets you sear the beef, stir-fry the broccoli, and simmer the sauce — all in the same pan.

Ingredients Overview

To make this classic dish at home, gather the following ingredients:

• Flank steak or sirloin (sliced thin against the grain)
• Broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• Garlic (minced)
• Ginger (grated or minced)
• Soy sauce (light or low-sodium preferred)
• Oyster sauce
• Cornstarch (for thickening)
• Sesame oil
• Brown sugar or honey (for balance)
• Optional: red pepper flakes, hoisin sauce

Pantry Substitutes and Variations

You can adapt the dish to your dietary needs:

• For gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce
• For vegetarian: Substitute beef with mushrooms or tofu
• For low-sodium: Choose reduced-salt sauces
• For keto: Skip the sugar and serve over cauliflower rice

How to Prepare the Ingredients

The magic of restaurant-style beef comes down to slicing and prepping. Here’s what to do:

• Slice beef thinly against the grain to keep it tender
• Marinate beef in soy sauce, cornstarch, and a splash of sesame oil to mimic the velveting technique
• Blanch broccoli briefly to keep it bright green and crisp

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Chinese Beef and Broccoli at home is easier than you think:

1. Marinate the beef for 15–20 minutes with soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and garlic.
2. Heat your pan or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add oil, then sear the beef quickly until just browned. Remove and set aside.
4. Toss in broccoli and stir-fry until it turns vibrant green and slightly tender.
5. Add sauce: Mix oyster sauce, soy sauce, water, cornstarch, and a bit of sugar.
6. Return beef to the pan and pour in sauce. Stir until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.

For more technique tips, the Serious Eats Guide to Stir Frying offers expert advice.

How to Serve It

This dish shines when served hot and fresh with:

• Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
• Brown rice for a heartier option
• Cauliflower rice for low-carb lovers
• A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

Storage and Reheating Tips

Planning to meal-prep or store leftovers? Here’s how:

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Reheat in a skillet over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals
• Avoid overcooking the broccoli to keep it from becoming mushy
• You can freeze it, but freshly made yields the best texture

Nutrition Breakdown

This homemade recipe offers a good nutritional profile:

• Protein-rich from the lean beef
• Fiber and vitamins from broccoli
• Lower in sodium than restaurant versions (especially if using low-sodium soy sauce)
• Fewer added sugars compared to bottled sauces

Per serving (with rice):

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: 30g
• Carbs: 30–40g
• Fat: 18g

Cultural Note: A Take-Out Favorite with History

Beef and broccoli isn’t a traditional Chinese dish — it’s a Chinese-American invention, inspired by Cantonese cooking and adapted to local tastes. In China, you’d more likely see gai lan (Chinese broccoli) than the Western version of broccoli.

Over time, it became a staple in American Chinese restaurants, thanks to its balance of savory flavors, affordability, and visual appeal.

FAQs: Everything You Want to Know

What cut of beef is best for beef and broccoli?
Flank steak or sirloin is ideal for its tenderness and quick cooking time.

How do Chinese restaurants make their beef so tender?
They use a method called velveting, which includes marinating in cornstarch, egg whites, and a bit of oil.

Can I make this without oyster sauce?
Yes! Substitute with more soy sauce and a splash of hoisin or add a dash of mushroom sauce for depth.

Is Chinese beef and broccoli healthy?
Absolutely — when homemade, it can be low in sugar and sodium and high in protein and fiber.

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just thaw and pat it dry to avoid adding excess moisture to the stir-fry.

What can I substitute for soy sauce?
Try tamari, liquid aminos, or coconut aminos for different dietary needs.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes — skip the sugar and serve over cauliflower rice.

Can I make this in advance?
Definitely. Store in meal prep containers for up to 4 days.

Final Thoughts

Making Chinese Beef and Broccoli at home is easier, faster, and healthier than ordering take-out. With just one pan, a handful of ingredients, and under 30 minutes, you’ll have a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

Perfect for busy weeknights or when that take-out craving hits — this is a recipe worth mastering. Want to impress your family or meal prep like a pro? Add this dish to your regular dinner rotation and enjoy the flavor of take-out with the ease of home cooking.

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