Name: Restaurant-Style Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1-1/2 pounds flank steak, trimmed; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons light soy sauce; 2 tablespoons water; 1 teaspoon shaoxing rice wine (unsalted); 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1 to 1-1/2 tablespoons light soy sauce (depending on salt preference); 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce; 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil; 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar; 3 teaspoons cornstarch; 4 large scallions, thinly sliced (separated into light and dark parts); 1 pound small broccoli florets; 2 teaspoons finely minced ginger; 2 teaspoons finely minced garlic; 2-1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided; Ground white pepper, optional; Cooked jasmine rice, for serving

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 81 reviews

If you have ever craved that perfect takeout experience at home, this Restaurant-Style Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe delivers all the savory, tender, and satisfying flavors you love from your favorite Chinese restaurant. The key to this dish is the harmonious balance of thinly sliced marinated flank steak, crisp-tender broccoli, and a rich, glossy sauce that clings to every bite. It’s both comforting and impressive, making it an ideal go-to for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress friends without the fuss of dining out.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a wooden board with a large piece of raw red meat on the left and several thin slices of the same meat on the right. The meat has white marbling and looks fresh and moist. In the background, there is a large knife with a shiny blade resting on the wooden surface, and a dark cloth partially visible behind it. The setting looks like a kitchen counter. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for simple, fresh, and pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a crucial role in bringing the authentic flavors and textures to your stir-fry. From the tender flank steak and vibrant broccoli to the combination of savory, slightly sweet sauces and aromatics, every component adds depth and heartiness to the dish.

Flank steak: Thinly sliced for tenderness and quick cooking, it’s the star protein that soaks up the flavors beautifully.
Cornstarch: Used both in the marinade and sauce to ensure a silky, thick coating on your beef and broccoli.
Light soy sauce: Adds essential umami and saltiness without overpowering the dish.
Shaoxing rice wine: A subtle flavor enhancer that deepens the marinade for authentic taste.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Provides a savory base for the sauce while keeping it light.
Oyster sauce: Brings a sweet, briny richness that’s signature to restaurant-style stir-fries.
Dark soy sauce: Contributes color and a touch of caramelized flavor complexity.
Toasted sesame oil: A fragrant finish that rounds out the sauce with nutty warmth.
Dark brown sugar: Balances out the savory and salty with gentle sweetness.
Scallions: Both light and dark parts add freshness, crunch, and pops of color.
Broccoli florets: Crisp and vibrant, they bring essential texture contrast and nutrition.
Minced ginger and garlic: Essential aromatics that infuse the dish with bright, spicy notes.
Vegetable oil: For high-heat cooking to get that perfect sear and quick sauté.
White pepper (optional): Adds subtle heat without overwhelming the flavors.
Cooked jasmine rice: The perfect fluffy bed for soaking up all the delicious sauce.

How to Make Restaurant-Style Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe

Step 1: Marinate Your Steak for Maximum Flavor

Start by firming up the flank steak in the freezer for about 15 to 20 minutes; this helps you slice it super thin without struggle. Then, slice against the grain into paper-thin pieces to keep each bite tender. Toss the slices with cornstarch to create a velvety coating, then add light soy sauce, water, and Shaoxing rice wine to infuse flavor and moisture. Let the meat marinate for 15 to 20 minutes while you prepare the rest. This step is crucial because it tenderizes the beef and sets the foundation for that irresistible restaurant taste.

Step 2: Craft the Sauce That Ties Everything Together

In a bowl, whisk together low-sodium chicken broth, oyster sauce, light and dark soy sauces, toasted sesame oil, dark brown sugar, cornstarch, and the white and light green parts of the scallions. This magical mix is going to thicken into a luscious sauce that clings perfectly to the beef and broccoli, bringing all the flavors into a glorious, shiny finish. Set this aside for now—you’ll add it later to the stir-fry.

Step 3: Sear the Beef to Perfection

Heat a large skillet or wok with vegetable oil on high until it shimmers. Pat your marinated steak slices dry to ensure a good sear, then add half to the pan, spreading into a single layer without overcrowding. Let them cook undisturbed for a minute before stirring so you get that nicely browned edge, then cook for another minute until almost cooked through. Remove and repeat with the remaining beef. This quick cooking step locks in juices and creates those delicious charred bits that make this beef and broccoli so crave-worthy.

Step 4: Cook the Broccoli and Aromatics

Push the beef aside and add a bit more oil to your pan. Toss in the broccoli florets and stir-fry until they’re crisp-tender—about 2 to 4 minutes depending on their size. Then create a small empty space in your pan and add minced ginger and garlic, cooking just until fragrant (around 30 seconds). This careful timing prevents burning while releasing those fragrant flavors. Stir the aromatics into the broccoli, so every bite gets that fresh, zingy punch.

Step 5: Combine Everything and Finish with the Sauce

Return your browned beef and any juices back into the skillet. Whisk your reserved sauce mixture again to ensure the cornstarch is well incorporated, then pour it into the pan. Lower the heat to medium and stir as the sauce thickens and envelops the beef and broccoli in a glossy, flavorful coat—this should take about 1 to 2 minutes. Taste and season with white pepper if you like a subtle heat, then sprinkle the dark green scallions on top for the final pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve Restaurant-Style Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe

A close-up of a black plate shows three layers: the bottom layer is white rice with visible grains, the middle layer consists of bright green broccoli florets, and the top layer includes brown, saucy pieces of beef mixed with chopped green onions. A woman's hand is holding dark brown wooden chopsticks picking up a piece of beef. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface with a dark gray cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishing your stir-fry with thinly sliced dark green scallion parts adds a delightful crunch and bright onion flavor that lifts the dish. You can also sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for extra texture and a nutty note. For some heat, a light drizzle of chili oil or sliced fresh chili peppers complements the savory sauce wonderfully without overpowering the core flavors.

Side Dishes

This Restaurant-Style Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe is fantastic served over steamed jasmine rice, which soaks up the luscious sauce perfectly. For more variety, try pairing it with fluffy brown rice for extra fiber or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option. Simple sides like steamed dumplings or a crisp Asian cucumber salad provide refreshing contrasts that round out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

To elevate your presentation, serve the stir-fry family-style in a large colorful platter garnished with scallions and sesame seeds. You can also build individual bowls layered with jasmine rice, beef and broccoli, and perhaps a fried egg on top for richness. For a fun twist, wrap the beef and broccoli in warm lettuce cups or rice paper rolls with fresh herbs for a hand-held treat that’s equally delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen as it sits, making for delicious next-day meals. Be sure to let the stir-fry cool before sealing to avoid condensation that could make the broccoli soggy.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze the dish, portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that broccoli’s texture may soften upon thawing, so it’s best suited for reheating in a soup or mixed with other dishes. Freeze the beef and sauce separately for a better texture retention.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat to preserve tenderness and avoid overcooking the broccoli. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving at high power to keep the sauce glossy and the beef juicy.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this stir-fry?

Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use skirt steak or sirloin. Just be sure to slice thinly against the grain to keep it tender and adjust cooking time accordingly.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap out regular soy sauce and oyster sauce for gluten-free versions made with tamari or coconut aminos. Be sure to verify all sauces and broths to keep the dish completely gluten-free.

How do I know when the broccoli is cooked perfectly?

Look for bright green florets that are tender when pierced with a fork but still have a slight crispness. Typically, 2 to 4 minutes of stir-frying will achieve this balance depending on floret size.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance for a party?

You can marinate the beef and prep vegetables ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the stir-fry fresh right before serving for optimal texture and flavor. If needed, you can cook everything except the sauce a few hours ahead and toss the sauce in at the last minute.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Shaoxing rice wine?

A dry sherry is a good substitute for Shaoxing rice wine in this recipe. If you prefer to omit alcohol, a splash of rice vinegar with a pinch of sugar can mimic the flavor profile, but use sparingly to avoid too much acidity.

Final Thoughts

Once you try making this Restaurant-Style Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe at home, you’ll never feel the need to order takeout again. It’s approachable, bursting with flavor, and truly a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect anytime you’re craving a warm, satisfying meal. So grab your skillet, gather the ingredients, and enjoy sharing this delicious homemade classic with your favorite people.