Chinese Beef and Broccoli (One Pan Take-Out)
If you’re craving that classic Chinese beef and broccoli you order from your favorite take-out spot—but want it fast, fresh, and made in just one pan—this recipe is your ultimate kitchen hack. We’ve crafted a bold, deeply flavorful version that hits every note: tender beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and a savory umami-packed sauce. Best of all, it’s done in less than 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Why One-Pan Chinese Beef and Broccoli Is the Perfect Weeknight Dinner
- Quick Prep and Cook Time: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Minimal Dishes: One pan, one bowl—done.
- High Protein, Low Carb: Ideal for healthy eating.
- Tastes Better Than Takeout: No MSG, no greasy residue.
Ingredients for Authentic Chinese Beef and Broccoli
Here’s everything you need to make a restaurant-worthy meal in your own kitchen.
For the Beef Marinade:
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp baking soda (optional for ultra-tender beef)
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp oyster sauce
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce (adds rich color)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp fresh grated ginger
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tsp cornstarch (for thickening)
For the Stir Fry:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1/4 cup sliced scallions (optional)
- Toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
How to Make Chinese Beef and Broccoli in One Pan
1. Marinate the Beef for Maximum Flavor
Toss the thinly sliced beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, sesame oil, and baking soda in a bowl. Let it rest for 15–20 minutes while prepping your sauce and vegetables. This not only infuses flavor but helps tenderize the meat.
2. Whisk the Sauce Together
In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients, including the oyster sauce, soy sauces, vinegar, sugar, ginger, garlic, broth, and cornstarch. Stir until the cornstarch dissolves completely—this helps thicken the sauce perfectly when it hits the pan.
3. Blanch the Broccoli for Perfect Texture
Quickly blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 60–90 seconds, then drain and rinse with cold water. This keeps the broccoli bright green and crisp-tender, just like in takeout.
4. Stir Fry the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Spread the beef in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes per side. Remove and set aside. Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.
5. Bring It All Together
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Toss in the blanched broccoli and sauté for 1 minute. Return the beef to the pan. Give your sauce a final stir and pour it in. Toss everything together, allowing the sauce to bubble and thicken for about 2–3 minutes.
Best Cuts of Beef for Chinese Stir Fry
The key to a perfect beef and broccoli stir fry is using the right cut of beef. Here are your top choices:
| Cut of Beef | Texture | Cook Time | Best Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flank Steak | Lean & tender | Fast | Absorbs marinades well |
| Skirt Steak | Juicy & flavorful | Quick | Rich, beefy flavor |
| Sirloin | Tender | Medium | Easy to slice thin |
| Ribeye | Marbled & rich | Fast | Premium cut, extra juicy |
Always slice against the grain for tender results.
Tips for Restaurant-Quality Results at Home
- Preheat Your Pan: A hot pan gives a better sear.
- Use High Heat: Stir-frying needs serious heat for flavor.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Overcrowding = steaming, not searing.
- Velvet the Beef: Cornstarch + baking soda = melt-in-your-mouth meat.
Make It a Full Chinese Take-Out Night
Serve your beef and broccoli with:
- Steamed Jasmine rice or white rice
- Garlic fried rice for extra flavor
- Cauliflower rice for low-carb
- Chow mein noodles if you want to mix it up
How to Store and Reheat Chinese Beef and Broccoli
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in a hot pan or microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
- Freeze for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge.
Variations to Try
Spicy Szechuan Style
Add 1–2 tsp chili garlic sauce or a few dried red chilies to the sauce.
Low-Sodium Option
Use low-sodium soy sauce and broth. Skip the oyster sauce or use a low-salt alternative.
Gluten-Free Version
Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure all sauces are labeled gluten-free.
Common Questions About Chinese Beef and Broccoli
What’s the secret to tender beef in stir fry?
Marinate with baking soda and cornstarch, slice thinly against the grain, and cook quickly on high heat.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but blanch or steam it first and remove excess moisture before stir-frying.
Is beef and broccoli healthy?
Yes—especially when made at home. It’s high in protein, low in sugar, and full of fiber from broccoli.
Conclusion: A Better Way to Enjoy Take-Out at Home
This Chinese beef and broccoli recipe delivers everything you love about take-out—without the wait, cost, or mystery ingredients. With just one pan and under 30 minutes, you’ve got a dish that’s healthier, faster, and arguably even tastier than your local spot.
