Chinese Beef and Broccoli (One Pan Take-Out)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish captures the authentic flavors of Chinese take-out with simple ingredients and minimal cleanup. Marinating the beef gives it a tender texture and deep flavor, while steaming the broccoli ensures it stays crisp and vibrant. The homemade sauce thickens quickly in the pan for a perfectly coated, restaurant-quality meal ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• Beef (ribeye or flank steak), sliced against the grain into 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thick slices or 1-cm (1/2 inch) sticks
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon peanut oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water (for steaming broccoli)
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger

Sauce Ingredients

• Soy sauce
• Oyster sauce (optional)
• Sugar
• Additional cornstarch mixed with water to thicken

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Directions

1. Marinate the Beef: Place sliced beef in a bowl. Add soy sauce, peanut oil, and cornstarch. Gently mix by hand until all beef slices are coated with a thin layer of marinade. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
2. Prepare the Sauce: Combine all sauce ingredients in a medium bowl and stir well.
3. Steam the Broccoli: Heat 1/4 cup water in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until boiling. Add broccoli and cover. Steam until broccoli is just tender and water evaporates, about 1 minute. Transfer broccoli to a plate. Wipe the skillet dry with a paper towel held with tongs if needed.
4. Cook the Beef: Add oil to the skillet and swirl to coat. Heat over medium-high until hot. Spread beef slices in a single layer. Let cook undisturbed for 30 seconds until the bottom side browns. Flip and cook other side briefly. Stir and cook until beef is lightly charred on the outside but still pink inside.
5. Add Aromatics: Add garlic and ginger to the pan, stirring to release fragrance.
6. Finish with Broccoli and Sauce: Return broccoli to the pan. Stir the sauce mixture to dissolve any cornstarch, then pour into the skillet. Cook and stir until the sauce thickens, about 1 minute.
7. Serve: Transfer to a plate immediately and serve hot as a main dish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Additions: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for more variety.
• Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or fresh sliced chili peppers to the sauce for heat.
• Sauce Adjustments: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as broccoli texture can degrade.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Fresh broccoli is preferred for best texture, but frozen can be used; reduce steaming time.

How thin should I slice the beef?

About 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) for quick, even cooking.

Is peanut oil necessary?

Peanut oil adds authentic flavor and high smoke point but use vegetable or canola oil as alternatives.

Can I prepare the marinade ahead?

Yes, marinate beef for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.

What can I serve with this dish?

Steamed rice or noodles are perfect accompaniments.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use tamari and check that all sauces are gluten-free.

How do I get the sauce thick and glossy?

Make sure to dissolve cornstarch completely in the sauce and cook until thickened.

Can I add more garlic or ginger?

Yes, adjust to taste for more aromatic flavor.

How do I avoid overcooking the beef?

Cook beef quickly over high heat and remove as soon as it is browned but still tender.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger skillet or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Conclusion

Chinese Beef and Broccoli (One Pan Take-Out) is a simple, flavorful, and quick dish that recreates the classic take-out favorite at home. With tender marinated beef, crisp broccoli, and a luscious savory sauce, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s easy to prepare and loved by all.

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