If you’re craving a quick and flavorful dinner that brings together tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a luscious sweet soy garlic sauce, this Sweet Soy Garlic Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is exactly what you need. This dish is a perfect weeknight meal that feels like a restaurant favorite but comes together easily in your own kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients, including thinly sliced beef sirloin, fresh broccoli florets, and a sauce that’s rich with garlic, soy, and honey, you’ll have a comforting, satisfying dish in no time. Serve it over steaming cooked rice for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Why It’s My Go-To
Sweet Soy Garlic Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is my go-to for so many reasons. First, it’s incredibly fast to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings when you want something delicious without the hassle. The balance of savory soy sauce and sweet honey creates a mouthwatering sauce that clings beautifully to the beef and broccoli. Plus, the garlic adds a punch of flavor that elevates every bite.
This stir-fry is also very versatile. Whether you’re cooking for one or a family, it scales easily. And it’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal, thanks to the vibrant broccoli. I love that it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup—a win in my book! If you enjoy dishes like Garlic Butter Steak And Mushroom Skillet With Rice, this stir-fry will definitely become a staple in your rotation.
Your Shopping Guide
- 1 pound beef sirloin – Look for sirloin that’s already thinly sliced or ask your butcher to slice it for you. Thin slices cook faster and absorb more flavor.
- 2 cups broccoli florets – Fresh broccoli is best for this dish. Choose florets that are bright green and firm.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil – Neutral oils like canola or sunflower oil work well for stir-frying.
- 3 cloves garlic – Fresh garlic cloves, minced finely to release their full aroma.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce – Use a good-quality soy sauce for depth of flavor. Low sodium is an option if you want to control saltiness.
- 2 tablespoons honey – Provides the sweet counterbalance to the savory soy sauce.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce to a glossy finish and tenderizes the beef.
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil – Adds a subtle nutty fragrance; use sparingly for best results.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground is ideal for a little heat and depth.
- Cooked rice – Jasmine, basmati, or any long-grain rice you prefer for serving.
Tools & Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or wok: A wok is ideal for stir-frying, but a large skillet works just as well for even cooking and quick searing.
- Cutting board and sharp knife: For slicing beef thinly and chopping broccoli and garlic.
- Measuring spoons and cups: To get the sauce ingredients just right.
- Mixing bowl: To combine the sauce ingredients and marinate the beef briefly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and tossing the ingredients while cooking.
Stepwise Method: Sweet Soy Garlic Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, sesame oil, and black pepper until smooth. The cornstarch will help thicken the sauce once heated. Set this aside while you prep the beef and broccoli.
Step 2: Slice the Beef and Prep Broccoli
Make sure your beef is sliced thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness. Rinse the broccoli and cut into bite-sized florets, ensuring they cook evenly. Mince the garlic cloves finely so their flavor infuses the dish well.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
Heat the vegetable oil in your skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef slices in a single layer and sear them for about 2 minutes per side until they develop a nice brown crust but aren’t completely cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Broccoli and Garlic
In the same pan, add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until they are bright green and just tender but still crisp.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Return the beef to the pan with the broccoli. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and toss everything together to coat evenly. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and the beef is cooked through.
Step 6: Serve
Serve your Sweet Soy Garlic Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry hot over a bed of cooked rice. The rice soaks up all the delicious sauce, making every bite a delight. For an extra touch, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or sliced green onions on top.
Tailor It to Your Diet
- Lower sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari and reduce the amount of added salt elsewhere.
- Gluten-free: Substitute soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos and ensure cornstarch is gluten-free certified.
- Vegetarian version: Replace beef with firm tofu or tempeh and keep the sauce the same.
- Additional vegetables: Add sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for more color and nutrition.
Testing Timeline
After several rounds of testing, the following timing proved best for optimal texture and flavor:
- Beef sear: 2 minutes per side for a tender, juicy finish.
- Broccoli stir-fry: 3 to 4 minutes to stay crisp yet tender.
- Sauce simmer: 2 to 3 minutes until thick and glossy.
Best Ways to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through. If the sauce thickens too much after refrigeration, add a splash of water or broth while reheating to loosen it up. This stir-fry also freezes well; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I use another cut of beef for this stir-fry?
Absolutely! Flank steak or ribeye sliced thinly are excellent alternatives. Just remember to slice against the grain for tenderness.
How do I prevent the broccoli from getting soggy?
Stir-fry the broccoli over high heat and don’t overcrowd the pan. Cooking it quickly keeps it crisp and vibrant.
Is there a substitute for cornstarch?
Yes, arrowroot powder or potato starch can be used in equal amounts as a thickening agent if you don’t have cornstarch on hand.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the sauce, slice the beef, and chop the broccoli a few hours in advance. However, cook everything fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Our Most-Loved Recipes
- Garlic Butter Steak And Mushroom Skillet With Rice – A rich and savory skillet meal perfect for steak lovers.
- Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tater Tot Bake – Comfort food at its finest with melty cheese and crispy tots.
- Sticky Honey Soy Salmon Rice Bowls – Sweet and sticky salmon served over rice for a wholesome dinner.
Bring It to the Table
When it’s time to dig in, bring your Sweet Soy Garlic Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry straight from the skillet to the table alongside steaming bowls of rice. This dish shines with its glossy, flavorful sauce coating every piece of tender beef and vibrant broccoli. Pair it with a simple cucumber salad or some steamed dumplings for a full spread that’s guaranteed to satisfy. It’s the kind of meal that feels special but comes together effortlessly, making weeknights something to look forward to.
This stir-fry brings a wonderful harmony of sweet, savory, and garlicky notes that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, the straightforward method and familiar ingredients make it a fantastic addition to your dinner arsenal. Enjoy!
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Sweet Soy Garlic Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, sesame oil, and black pepper until smooth. Set aside.
- Slice the beef thinly against the grain. Rinse broccoli and cut into bite-sized florets. Mince garlic finely.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add beef slices in a single layer and sear 2 minutes per side until browned but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add minced garlic and stir 30 seconds until fragrant. Add broccoli florets and stir-fry 3 to 4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Return beef to the pan with broccoli. Pour sauce over and toss to coat. Simmer 2 to 3 minutes until sauce thickens and beef is cooked through.
- Serve hot over cooked rice. Optionally, garnish with toasted sesame seeds or sliced green onions.
Notes
- Use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari to reduce salt.
- Substitute beef with firm tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
- Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for more nutrition.
- Leftovers store well refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of water to loosen sauce.
- Slice beef thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
