A Quick One-Pan Beef and Broccoli for a Pre-Thanksgiving Dinner

Just in time for a quick pre-Thanksgiving dinner, discover how one-pan beef and broccoli offers a delightful twist to your holiday meal plans.

What kind of recipe is it?

One-Pan Beef and Broccoli is a delicious and versatile stir-fry dish that combines tender beef strips and nutritious broccoli in a savory sauce, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor. Its balance of protein and vegetables makes it ideal for health-conscious individuals and families looking to enjoy a wholesome meal without sacrificing taste.

Plus, it appeals to both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike!

Sale
Fullstar The Original Pro Chopper - Vegetable Chopper and Spiralizer, Food Chopper with Container,...
  • The Original Pro Chopper – TikTok’s favorite veggie slicer and one of the top-rated kitchen gadgets of the season! Simple to use, set up, and...

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Beef (flank steak or sirloin) 1 pound (16 oz), thinly sliced against the grain
Broccoli florets 4 cups (about 1 large head of broccoli)
Soy sauce 1/4 cup
Beef broth 1/2 cup
Brown sugar 2 tablespoons
Cornstarch 1 tablespoon
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Ginger 1 tablespoon, minced
Vegetable oil 2 tablespoons
Sesame oil 1 teaspoon (optional)
Red pepper flakes 1 teaspoon (optional, for a spicy kick)
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste

This detailed list guarantees you have all the necessary ingredients on hand to prepare a delicious One-Pan Beef and Broccoli dish!

Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy...
  • Makes Everything Simple : Just forget your bagged cheese! Only turn the handle for several times and get fresh shredded cheese, cutting the food...

Cooking Steps

  1. Begin with mise en place: thinly slice 1 pound (16 oz) of beef against the grain and set aside. Measure out 4 cups of broccoli florets and prepare the rest of the ingredients by mincing 3 garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of ginger.
  2. In a small bowl, combine 60 ml (1/4 cup) soy sauce, 120 ml (1/2 cup) beef broth, 30 g (2 tablespoons) brown sugar, and 15 g (1 tablespoon) cornstarch. Whisk until smooth and set aside.
  3. Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or wok over medium-high heat (approximately 200°C/400°F). Add 30 ml (2 tablespoons) vegetable oil, ensuring it has a smoke point above this temperature to prevent burning.
  4. Once the oil shimmers, add the sliced beef in a single layer, cooking for about 2-3 minutes. Allow the beef to sear undisturbed until browned on one side before flipping.
  5. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 60°C (140°F) for medium-rare; if desired, continue to 70°C (160°F) for medium.
  6. Remove the beef from the skillet, transferring it to a plate to rest. Cover it loosely with foil to maintain warmth while you prepare the vegetables.
  7. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for 30 seconds or until fragrant. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
  8. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet, stirring well to coat in the garlic and ginger mixture. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.
  9. Return the beef to the skillet along with the sauce mixture. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
  10. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened and everything is heated through, achieving a glossy finish.
  11. Optionally, drizzle 5 ml (1 teaspoon) of sesame oil over the finished dish and sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, if desired.
  12. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste, stirring well to incorporate.
  13. Serve immediately on a large platter or individual plates, ensuring even distribution of beef and broccoli. Enjoy the harmonious aromas of ginger and garlic.
  14. Allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container and storing in the refrigerator. Consume within 3-4 days.
Chef Preserve Compact Vacuum Sealer for Food (Vacuum Sealer Machine + 30 Reusable Vacuum Bags)...
  • 💰 REDUCE WASTE AND SAVE MONEY: Chef Preserve keeps FOOD FRESH 5 TIMES LONGER than non-vacuum storage methods. Never worry about spoilage ever...

Variations

  • Spicy Szechuan Beef and Broccoli: Add 1-2 tablespoons of Szechuan peppercorns and a tablespoon of chili paste to the sauce for a fiery kick.
  • Vegetarian Tofu and Broccoli: Substitute the beef with 400 g (14 oz) of firm tofu, cubed and pan-fried until golden brown, for a plant-based alternative.
  • Gluten-Free Beef and Broccoli: Use gluten-free soy sauce and verify the beef broth is also gluten-free to cater to dietary restrictions.
  • Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli: Replace the beef with 500 g (1 lb) of sliced chicken breast and use honey instead of brown sugar for a sweeter flavor profile.
Sale
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), Versatile Cookware for...
  • Generous Capacity: 7-quart slow cooker that comfortably serves 9+ people or fits a 7-pound roast

Tips on plating and presentation

vibrant colors elegant presentation

After experimenting with different variations of your beef and broccoli, you’ll want to present your dish in a way that highlights its vibrant colors and textures.

I like to use a white plate to make the greens pop, layering the beef and broccoli artistically. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or a drizzle of sauce adds an elegant touch, making the meal visually appetizing.

Sale

What other dishes can I pair it with?

perfect meal pairings suggested

While enjoying your beef and broccoli, consider pairing it with jasmine rice or quinoa for a satisfying meal.

I also love adding a side of sautéed mushrooms or a fresh cucumber salad to balance the flavors.

If you’re in the mood for something warming, a light miso soup works perfectly too.

These dishes complement the main dish without overwhelming it.

Sale
Etekcity Food Kitchen Scale, Digital Grams and Ounces for Weight Loss, Baking, Cooking, Keto and...
  • 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗪𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴: Supports 5 units (oz/lb:oz/fl'oz/g/mL), tare function, and includes 2 AAA...

What drinks can I pair it with?

ideal drink pairings suggested

Once you’ve paired your beef and broccoli with the perfect sides, you might be wondering what drinks will elevate your meal.

I love serving a light Asian white wine or a crisp lager to balance the flavors.

If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a invigorating ginger tea or coconut water pairs beautifully too.

Each choice complements the dish without overpowering it.

Enjoy!

Sale
Alpha Grillers Meat Thermometer Digital - Instant Read Food Thermometer for Cooking and Grilling...
  • Instant Read Food Thermometer | Our instant read thermometer features a temperature probe and advanced, highly accurate technology with 1-2 seconds...

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does This Dish Take to Prepare and Cook?

This dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook. In just half an hour, I’ve got a delicious meal ready to serve, perfect for a busy evening!

Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?

Absolutely, you can use frozen broccoli instead of fresh. Just remember to adjust your cooking time slightly, since frozen broccoli might need a bit longer to achieve that tender-crisp texture I love. Enjoy!

Is This Recipe Suitable for Meal Prep?

Absolutely, I find this recipe perfect for meal prep! It stores well in the fridge and reheats nicely, making my weekly lunches quick and satisfying. Just pack it in portioned containers, and I’m all set!

Can I Make It Gluten-Free?

Yes, you can absolutely make it gluten-free! I suggest using tamari instead of soy sauce and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free. It’s an easy switch that won’t compromise the delicious flavor. Enjoy!

What Type of Beef Works Best for This Dish?

I recommend using flank steak or sirloin for the best results. Their tenderness and flavor really shine in this dish. Trust me, you’ll love the juicy, satisfying bites that work perfectly with broccoli!