I make this beef and broccoli on the nights when everything feels rushed but I still want something warm and cozy. It cooks in the same amount of time it takes my kids to finish their homework, which is a small miracle. The first time I tried this skillet version, I remember thinking, this tastes exactly like the takeout I love, but fresher and lighter. The sauce thickens fast, the beef stays tender, and the broccoli keeps its bright color. It has been a steady weeknight favorite ever since.
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If you love quick stir fry meals like my Simple Sesame Chicken, this one fits right into your dinner rotation.
Why You Will Love This Beef And Broccoli In 30 Minutes
- Cooks fast with simple, everyday ingredients.
- Terrific takeout taste without leaving home.
- Great way to get the kids to eat broccoli.
- Budget friendly and flexible with substitutions.
- The sauce thickens perfectly and coats every bite.
- Works with rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice.
Ingredients For Beef And Broccoli
For The Stir Fry
- 1 pound flank steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 to 4 cups broccoli florets
For The Sauce
- 1 half cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1 half cup water
- 1 half teaspoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1 half teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 quarter cup packed brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 quarter teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, or more to taste
Ingredient Notes
- Slice the flank steak across the grain so it stays tender.
- Toasted sesame oil adds a deep nutty flavor, so use the darker kind.
- Fresh broccoli works best, but thawed frozen broccoli can be used in a pinch.
How To Make Beef And Broccoli In 30 Minutes
Step 1: Prep Everything
Slice the steak thinly across the grain. Cut the broccoli into small florets.
Whisk the sauce ingredients together in a bowl and set aside.
Step 2: Cook The Broccoli
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over high heat.
Add the broccoli and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until tender crisp, tossing often.
Transfer to a plate.
Step 3: Cook The Beef
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet.
Place the beef in an even layer.
Let it cook for 1 minute without moving it.
Flip with tongs and cook for another minute until just browned.
Leave it slightly rare at this stage so it stays tender.
Step 4: Add Sauce And Broccoli
Return the broccoli to the skillet.
Pour in the sauce.
Stir and cook for 1 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.
Step 5: Serve
Turn off the heat and serve immediately over warm rice or noodles.
Notes And Variations
Use A Different Cut Of Beef
Sirloin or tenderloin both work well if you prefer.
Adjust The Sauce
Once you try it the first time, tweak the sweet or tangy levels the next time you make it.
Want It Spicy
Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a small amount of sriracha.
Using Frozen Broccoli
Thaw it first. Since it is partly cooked, check it early so it does not turn too soft.
Tips For Success
- Prep everything before you start because the cooking moves fast.
- Keep the skillet hot to get a good sear.
- Avoid overcooking the beef because flank steak cooks in minutes.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a small splash of water.
Storage And Reheating
Refrigerate
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat
Warm on the stove in a covered pan or heat in the microwave.
Add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.
Freeze
Freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that broccoli softens once frozen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Flank steak is ideal because it cooks quickly and stays tender when sliced thinly.
Yes. Increase the brown sugar slightly or add a little extra soy sauce for balance.
Yes. Thaw it and reduce the cooking time since it cooks faster.
Rice, rice noodles, or long grain jasmine rice all work well for soaking up the sauce.
Recipes You May Like
- Simple Sesame Chicken
- Easy Teriyaki Beef Bowl
- Garlic Chicken Fried Rice
From My Kitchen to Yours
This beef and broccoli in 30 minutes is one of those recipes you make once and then keep in your dinner rotation. The sauce clings to the beef, the broccoli stays crisp, and the whole meal comes together before anyone can ask what is for dinner. I hope it becomes one of your weeknight favorites too.
Print📖 Recipe
Beef And Broccoli In 30 Minutes
Description
Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli is a quick and satisfying meal that brings together the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. In just 28 minutes, you can create a delicious dish featuring tender ground beef, crisp broccoli, and a rich honey garlic sauce. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, making it a family favorite. Serve it over rice or noodles for a wholesome dinner that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chopped white onion
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 3 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
- 1 cup honey garlic sauce
- 4 cups cooked rice (for serving)
Instructions
- Mince the garlic and chop the onion.
- Heat a frying pan over medium heat with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion; cook until translucent (1-2 minutes).
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook until no longer pink (3-4 minutes).
- Stir in the broccoli florets and cook until slightly soft but still crisp (3-4 minutes).
- Pour in the honey garlic sauce, stir well, and heat through for another 1-2 minutes.
- Serve over cooked rice, enjoying hot.
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