Name: Better-Than-Takeout Beef with Broccoli Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Chinese-American
Ingredients: For the Beef: 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 1 tablespoon vegetable oil For the Stir-Fry: 4 cups broccoli florets, 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 teaspoons sesame oil, 3 garlic cloves minced, 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger, 1/2 cup beef broth, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional), 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry), cooked white rice for serving

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Succulent beef, perfectly crisp-tender broccoli, and a rich, glossy sauce come together in this irresistible Better-Than-Takeout Beef with Broccoli. If you’ve ever craved that classic Chinese-American favorite but found yourself wishing you could make it even tastier (and faster) at home, you’re in the right place. This version delivers big flavors, wonderfully tender textures, and a mouthwatering aroma—all in less time than it takes to have your favorite restaurant deliver.

Better-Than-Takeout Beef with Broccoli Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for Better-Than-Takeout Beef with Broccoli looks simple at first glance, but each item plays a key role in bringing out the bold, savory flavors and lush texture of this dish. Just a handful of pantry staples transform into a meal that’s far more satisfying than the sum of its parts!

Flank steak: Thinly slicing and marinating the beef makes it ultra-tender and ensures it soaks up every bit of that savory sauce.
Cornstarch: Two uses here—first as a secret tenderizer for the beef, then as a slurry to thicken the silky sauce.
Vegetable oil: Just a tablespoon is all you need for the high-heat sear that caramelizes the beef and cooks the vegetables beautifully.
Broccoli florets: Go for fresh, vibrant broccoli; it adds color, crunch, and soaks up the sauce’s flavor.
Low-sodium soy sauce: This keeps the sauce beautifully salty without being overpowering—definitely worth using the low-sodium version!
Brown sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness that rounds out and balances the robust flavors of the soy and beef.
Sesame oil: Just a drizzle gives an unmistakable nutty depth and classic takeout aroma.
Garlic cloves: Fresh, minced garlic is essential for a rich, authentic flavor base.
Fresh ginger: A tablespoon of grated ginger wakes up the whole dish with fresh, zesty warmth.
Beef broth: Keeps the sauce lush and savory; use low sodium if you prefer a lighter touch.
Oyster sauce (optional): A traditional add-in for extra umami depth—it’s optional, but highly recommended!
Cornstarch slurry: A classic thickener made with cornstarch and water for that glossy, velvety sauce.
Cooked white rice: The perfect fluffy base that soaks up every last drop of delicious sauce.

How to Make Better-Than-Takeout Beef with Broccoli

Step 1: Prep and Tenderize the Beef

Your first move sets the stage for melt-in-your-mouth meat: Toss those thinly sliced strips of flank steak with cornstarch. Give it a good, even coating and let it rest for about ten minutes. This simple step unlocks amazing tenderness and prevents the beef from drying out later.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Work in batches, searing the beef slices just until browned and cooked through—this should only take two to three minutes per batch. Transfer the beef to a plate as you go so each piece stays juicy and develops that crave-worthy caramelized edge.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan (add a bit more oil if things look dry), toss in the minced garlic and fresh ginger. These fragrant aromatics will sizzle and turn golden in about 30 seconds, forming the flavor base that makes Better-Than-Takeout Beef with Broccoli so irresistible.

Step 4: Steam the Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets along with a splash of water, then cover the pan. Let the broccoli steam for two to three minutes. You want it to turn a gorgeous, vivid green and stay crisp-tender, not mushy—think restaurant-perfect texture!

Step 5: Whisk Up the Sauce

While the veggies cook, quickly whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, beef broth, and oyster sauce in a bowl. This umami-packed mixture will soon coat every piece of beef and broccoli with a shiny, addictive glaze.

Step 6: Simmer and Thicken the Sauce

Pour the sauce into the skillet with the broccoli and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry, and watch as the sauce magically thickens and turns glossy, clinging to each bite like the best takeout ever.

Step 7: Bring It All Together

Return the seared beef to the pan and toss everything together until well coated and heated through. Serve the Better-Than-Takeout Beef with Broccoli piping hot, draped over a bed of fluffy white rice, and dig in while it’s steamy and fresh!

How to Serve Better-Than-Takeout Beef with Broccoli

Garnishes

A finishing sprinkle of sesame seeds or sliced green onions transforms this dish from homey to restaurant-worthy. For those who love a little indulgence, drizzle a touch more sesame oil or scatter some toasted cashews on top.

Side Dishes

Fluffy white rice is always a classic, but Better-Than-Takeout Beef with Broccoli also loves to be paired with jasmine or brown rice for extra flavor and fiber. A side of steamed dumplings, egg drop soup, or a simple cucumber salad keeps things light and balances the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the stir fry family-style in a big wok or wide dish so everyone can help themselves. Or, pile the beef and broccoli onto lettuce leaves for crunchy, fresh wraps that make amazing party bites. You can even meal-prep individual bowls for grab-and-go lunches that’ll make your coworkers jealous.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Better-Than-Takeout Beef with Broccoli keeps beautifully for up to three days in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors meld overnight, so leftovers are often even tastier the next day!

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, let the beef and broccoli cool completely, then freeze in tightly sealed freezer containers or bags for up to two months. Freeze the rice separately for best results, so each part reheats to perfection.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the beef and broccoli in a skillet over medium-low heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or beef broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in quick 30-second bursts, stirring between each round to heat evenly without overcooking.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely! While flank steak is classic for Better-Than-Takeout Beef with Broccoli, skirt steak or even sirloin are great options if that’s what you have on hand. Just slice thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Certainly! Swap out the beef for strips of firm tofu or seitan and use vegetable broth in the sauce. You’ll still get all the delicious flavors and the same glossy, craveable sauce.

Can I add more vegetables?

Of course! Many people love to toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and crunch. Just add them to the pan along with the broccoli and adjust the cooking time as needed.

What if I want it spicier?

Turn up the heat with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a swirl of sriracha. You can add spice to the sauce or serve hot sauce on the side for guests to customize their own bowl.

Is oyster sauce necessary?

Oyster sauce lends a deep umami, but if you don’t have it or need a shellfish-free option, extra soy sauce plus a touch more brown sugar works in a pinch. You could also try hoisin sauce for a slightly different flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried making Better-Than-Takeout Beef with Broccoli at home, now’s the time! The aroma, the bold flavors, and the unbeatable freshness make it a recipe you’ll want to keep in regular rotation. Don’t be surprised if this becomes your new go-to for weeknight comfort or wowing friends at dinner. Give it a try and taste the difference for yourself!

Better-Than-Takeout Beef with Broccoli Recipe

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4.8 from 20 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Better-Than-Takeout Beef with Broccoli recipe is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is quick and easy to make at home. Tender slices of beef are stir-fried with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce, served over steamed white rice.

Ingredients

For the Beef:

1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Stir-Fry:

4 cups broccoli florets, 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 teaspoons sesame oil, 3 garlic cloves minced, 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger, 1/2 cup beef broth, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional), 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry), cooked white rice for serving

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Instructions

Prepare the Beef: Toss the sliced flank steak with cornstarch and let it sit. Sear the beef in a skillet until browned.
Stir-Fry: Sauté garlic and ginger, then add broccoli and steam. Whisk together the sauce ingredients and pour into the skillet. Add the cornstarch slurry and return the beef to the skillet.
Serve: Toss everything together until well coated. Serve hot over rice.