Chinese Beef and Broccoli (One Pan Take-Out): Discover the Classic Favorite You Can Make at Home

There’s something irresistible about a plate of bold, savory Chinese Beef and Broccoli (One Pan Take-Out)—that glossy sauce, the tender beef slices, the vibrant broccoli florets soaking up every flavorful drop. But did you know you can recreate this Chinese-style beef and broccoli stir-fry right at home, without a wok or restaurant bill?

This recipe combines convenience, nutrition, and unbeatable flavor in a single skillet. Whether you’re craving your favorite takeout-style beef with broccoli or trying to impress with a homemade Chinese beef stir-fry, this recipe delivers. Say goodbye to soggy takeout and hello to a dinner you’ll feel great about.

Let’s bring the restaurant magic into your kitchen, one sizzling skillet at a time.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Wonder

• 🌟 One-pan meal = minimal cleanup
• 🧄 Packed with umami-rich garlic and ginger
• ⏱️ Ready in under 30 minutes—weeknight win!
• 🥦 Loaded with fiber-rich broccoli for a healthy balance
• 🥩 Juicy, tender beef marinated for flavor and texture
• 💲 Budget-friendly alternative to restaurant takeout
• 🧂 Customizable seasoning—control your salt and spice
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly and picky-eater approved

Ingredients You’ll Need

Meat & Marinade:

• 1 lb flank steak or skirt steak – slice against the grain for tenderness.
• 1 tbsp soy sauce – adds depth and umami.
• 1 tbsp peanut oil (or vegetable oil) – high smoke point oil for searing.
• 1 tbsp cornstarch – helps with browning and sauce cling.
• ½ tsp baking soda (optional) – tenderizes tougher cuts like chuck or brisket.

For the Sauce:

• ½ cup chicken or beef stock – creates a rich base.
• 2 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry) – adds authentic depth.
• 2 tbsp soy sauce + 1 tsp dark soy sauce – enhances color and taste.
• 2 tsp brown sugar – balances the salty and savory.
• 1 tbsp cornstarch – thickens the sauce.

Veggies & Aromatics:

• 1 head broccoli, chopped into bite-sized florets – high in fiber, vitamin C.
• 1 tbsp peanut oil – for sautéing.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced – essential for that classic aroma.
• 2 tsp fresh ginger, minced – brightens and deepens flavor.

🔁 Substitution tip: Don’t have dark soy sauce? Use ½ tsp molasses. No peanut oil? Drizzle in toasted sesame oil at the end for a nutty aroma.

How to Make Chinese Beef and Broccoli (One Pan Take-Out)

1. Marinate the Beef

Slice beef thinly across the grain (about ¼” strips). Toss with soy sauce, peanut oil, and cornstarch. For tougher cuts, add ½ tsp baking soda and marinate for 30 minutes to tenderize. This step locks in moisture and creates that velvety restaurant texture.

2. Mix the Sauce

Whisk together chicken stock, Shaoxing wine, soy sauces, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. This sauce will caramelize beautifully while staying thick and clingy.

3. Pre-cook the Broccoli

Add ¼ cup water to a skillet and bring to a boil. Steam broccoli for 1 minute until just tender. Remove and set aside. This step ensures vibrant color and crisp-tender texture.

4. Sear the Beef

Add oil and spread beef in a single layer. Let it sear undisturbed for 30 seconds to brown. Flip, cook briefly, then stir until browned and slightly pink inside.

5. Add Garlic and Ginger

Toss in garlic and ginger. Stir until fragrant—about 20 seconds. This aromatic combo is the soul of Asian beef and broccoli skillet dishes.

6. Combine Everything

Return broccoli to pan. Stir sauce again (cornstarch settles quickly) and pour it in. Cook 1–2 minutes until sauce thickens and coats everything.

🔬 Science note: Cornstarch thickens the sauce by gelatinizing when heated—transforming a thin liquid into luscious gravy-like texture.

📸 Featured Image: Beef and Broccoli Perfection on a Skillet (1200×630, Emotion Overlay)

💡 Pro Tips & PAA Answers

What’s the best cut of beef for beef and broccoli stir-fry?

Use flank steak or skirt steak for the best texture. For budget options like chuck or round roast, tenderize with baking soda during marinating.

How do I make beef and broccoli low-sodium?

Use low-sodium soy sauce and homemade unsalted broth. You can also reduce the total soy content and replace some with coconut aminos or water.

Can I make beef and broccoli without a wok?

Absolutely! This one-skillet beef stir-fry works beautifully in any large nonstick or cast iron skillet.

How do I thicken the sauce in stir-fry?

Cornstarch is your best friend. Mix it with cold liquid to form a slurry, and stir constantly when heating for an even, glossy sauce.

🍽 Best Ways to Serve It

Serve your Chinese Beef and Broccoli (One Pan Take-Out) over:

• Steamed jasmine rice
• Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
• Stir-fried lo mein noodles
• A bed of quinoa or brown rice

Pair it with:
🥟 Potstickers | 🥢 Asian Cucumber Salad | 🍚 Egg Fried Rice

📎 Internal Link: Try it with our Crispy Fried Rice with Egg & Veggies for a perfect match!

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 410
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Sugar: 5g
• Vitamin C: 70% DV

Storage & Leftovers

Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked stir-fry (without rice) for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Use a hot skillet or microwave with a splash of water to maintain moisture.

FAQs About Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! Just thaw and pat dry before sautéing. It may be slightly softer in texture.

What sauce is used in beef and broccoli?

A mix of soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, stock, sugar, and cornstarch creates a signature glossy, savory sauce.

Is beef and broccoli healthy?

Yes—high in protein, iron, and vitamin C. To make it even lighter, use lean beef cuts and reduce oil and sodium.

🔄 Recipe Variations

• Keto: Use tamari or coconut aminos and serve with cauliflower rice.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch.
• Spicy Version: Add chili garlic sauce or red pepper flakes.
• Vegan Version: Swap beef for tofu or seitan and use vegetable broth.
• Orange Twist: Add orange zest and juice to the sauce for citrus flair.

👋 Final Thoughts + Social Call-to-Action

This Chinese Beef and Broccoli (One Pan Take-Out) dish isn’t just a recipe—it’s your gateway to mastering flavorful, fast, and fuss-free weeknight meals. Skip the delivery, save money, and make memories around your own table.

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