Name: Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1/2 tablespoon avocado oil; 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced; 7 cups broccoli florets (415 grams, about 2 large heads); 1/3 cup coconut aminos; 1/3 cup chicken broth; 3 tablespoons lime juice; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon grated ginger (about 2 inches); 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon arrowroot flour; Sesame seeds; Green onions; Red pepper flakes; White rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 21 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet simple enough for a busy weeknight, you’ve just hit the jackpot with this Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe. This classic favorite takes fresh, wholesome ingredients and turns them into a vibrant, satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. The tender, perfectly seared flank steak pairs beautifully with crisp-tender broccoli, all wrapped in a tangy, slightly spicy sauce that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this dish is guaranteed to become a go-to staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two white plates on a white marbled surface. The plate on the left is full of fresh, green broccoli florets with a bright and textured appearance. The plate on the right has many thin red strips of raw beef, showing some white marbling and muscle texture. Above these plates, there are three small bowls: one with a dark sauce, one with white powder, and one with a piece of light brown ginger. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting these ingredients right is the secret sauce to nailing this Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe. Each item plays a key role, whether it’s adding flavor, texture, or that beautiful color that makes the dish so inviting.

Avocado oil: A heart-healthy oil with a high smoke point, perfect for quick searing without burning.
Flank steak: Thinly sliced for quick cooking, this cut is tender and flavorful when seared properly.
Broccoli florets: Fresh and crisp, they provide a wonderful contrast in texture and vibrant green color.
Coconut aminos: A gluten-free and paleo-friendly alternative to soy sauce that adds depth and umami.
Chicken broth: Enhances the sauce’s savoriness and adds moisture during cooking.
Lime juice: Brings brightness and a hint of acidity that balances the richness of the beef.
Toasted sesame oil: A little goes a long way in imparting that signature nutty aroma and flavor.
Garlic: Minced fresh for a punch of aromatic sharpness.
Grated ginger: Adds warmth and a slight zing that complements the garlic perfectly.
Red pepper flakes: For just the right level of heat without overpowering the dish.
Arrowroot flour: Used to thicken the sauce to that perfect clingy consistency.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
Optional toppings: Sesame seeds, green onions, or more red pepper flakes to personalize your plate.
For serving: White rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice, depending on your preference.

How to Make Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by whisking together the coconut aminos, chicken broth, lime juice, toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, red pepper flakes, and freshly ground pepper in a bowl or jar. This sauce is the flavor backbone of your dish. Then, take two tablespoons of this sauce and mix it with the arrowroot flour in a separate small bowl — this helps to thicken the sauce when you cook it later. Setting these aside lets all those flavors marry wonderfully while you cook the other components.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

Season your thinly sliced flank steak generously with salt and pepper to build flavor from the start. Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, then add the beef in batches to avoid crowding. Cooking each slice for about 30 seconds on each side will give you that gorgeous sear without overcooking. Remove the beef as you go and set it aside, keeping all those delicious juices in the pan—they’ll add extra depth to the sauce later on.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli

Using the same skillet and the juices left behind, toss in your fresh broccoli florets. Add a couple of tablespoons of the prepared stir-fry sauce (without the arrowroot), stir to coat, and cover the skillet with a lid. This steaming step takes about 3 to 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender yet still crisp and vibrantly green. Once ready, remove the broccoli and set it aside, leaving the pan juices to work their magic.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce and Combine

Now for the delicious finale. Add the remaining stir-fry sauce along with the arrowroot slurry to the skillet juices over medium-low heat. Stir frequently as it thickens into a luscious, nappe consistency that will cling beautifully to every bite. Return the beef and broccoli to the pan and gently toss to combine and warm through for about a minute. Just be careful not to add any excess liquid from the beef or broccoli to keep your sauce perfectly thick.

How to Serve Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

A gray pan filled with a stir-fry dish showing two main layers: the first layer has many pieces of tender, browned beef with a slightly textured surface, spread evenly across the pan, and the second layer includes bright green broccoli florets, some with small stems, interspersed with the beef. There are tiny white sesame seeds scattered on top along with small pieces of chopped green onions, adding bits of white and dark green throughout the pan. Around the pan, the white marbled surface holds a small white bowl with tan sesame seeds, and another white bowl contains sliced lime wedges and more chopped green onions. At the bottom right corner, part of a white bowl with white steamed rice is visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or sliced green onions on top delivers a pop of color and a fresh crunch that’s absolutely irresistible. If you like a little extra heat, some red pepper flakes make a fantastic finishing touch that complements the flavors without stealing the spotlight.

Side Dishes

This Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe pairs wonderfully with various types of rice—white, brown, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb option. The rice soaks up the savory sauce, turning every bite into a comforting experience. You can even add a simple side salad with an Asian-inspired dressing to lighten up the meal further.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your stir fry in a vibrant bowl with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil for an extra layer of fragrance. For a fun twist, try stuffing the stir fry into lettuce cups or pair it with steamed buns for an engaging, hands-on dinner. Presentation is all about enjoying the dish with your eyes and mouth at the same time!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you’ll have a quick and delicious meal ready to go—just grab and reheat when hunger strikes. The beef will stay tender, and the broccoli will maintain its vibrant flavor.

Freezing

Although best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this stir fry for up to 2 months. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring into freezer-safe containers or bags. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to preserve the texture and flavor.

Reheating

The best way to reheat your Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is in a skillet over medium heat. This method helps to refresh the sauce and maintain the beef’s tenderness. Avoid microwaving for long periods as it can cause the broccoli to become soggy and the beef to toughen.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal for its tenderness and quick cooking time, you can also use skirt steak or sirloin. Just be sure to slice thinly against the grain for the best texture.

Is coconut aminos necessary, or can I use soy sauce instead?

While coconut aminos give this recipe its distinct, slightly sweet profile, soy sauce can be a convenient substitute. Keep in mind that soy sauce is saltier and less sweet, so you may want to adjust the quantity slightly and balance with a touch more lime juice or a pinch of sugar.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

This Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free. It’s a fantastic option for those with dietary restrictions.

Can I add other vegetables to this stir fry?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color, crunch, and nutrition. Just adjust the cooking times to ensure everything finishes tender-crisp.

What can I do if I don’t have arrowroot flour?

If arrowroot flour isn’t handy, cornstarch is a common substitute and will thicken the sauce similarly. Use it in the same amount, but keep in mind cornstarch has a slightly different texture and sheen.

Final Thoughts

This Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is truly one of those magic meals that combines speed, simplicity, and incredible flavor all in one pan. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something healthy and deeply satisfying without fuss. I can’t wait for you to make this at home and experience just how easy and delicious homemade stir fry can be. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become a cherished part of your meal rotation!