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Irresistible Chinese Beef and Broccoli (One Pan Take-Out)

Tender strips of flank steak mingle with crisp broccoli florets, all coated in a savory-sweet sauce that will make your taste buds dance.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Asian
Calories: 485
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb flank steak sliced thinly against the grain
  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger grated
  • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil for sautéing

Equipment

  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Medium bowl (for sauce)
  • Large skillet or wok
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Prep the Beef and Broccoli. Slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips to ensure tenderness. Wash and chop broccoli into bite-sized florets.
  2. Mix the Sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until smooth. Set aside.
  3. Sear the Beef. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear until browned on both sides, then remove from the pan and set aside.
  4. Add Aromatics. Toss the minced garlic and grated ginger into the skillet. Sauté briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
  5. Cook Broccoli with Sauce. Stir in the broccoli florets and pour in the prepared sauce. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.
  6. Combine and Heat Through. Return the beef to the skillet, tossing everything together until the beef is heated through and coated in sauce.
  7. Serve. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired.

Notes

Variations
Protein Swap: Use chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead of beef.
Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for color and crunch.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha for heat.
Low-Sodium: Use reduced-sodium soy sauce and adjust sugar to taste.
Tips for Success
Slice the beef thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Avoid overcrowding the pan; sear in batches to develop proper browning.
Always use fresh broccoli for the best crunch and vibrant color.
Taste the sauce before combining — adjust sweetness or saltiness to preference.