Broccoli Beef Stir Fry Sauce Recipe: A Flavor Bomb in Minutes

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Written by Frank Miller

June 28, 2025

Kickstart your weeknight dinners with this broccoli beef stir fry sauce recipe that’s guaranteed to bring the wow factor to your table. Perfectly balanced between savory and sweet, this sauce is your ticket to transforming simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Flavor Packed: A harmonious blend of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
  • Versatile: Not just for beef and broccoli, this sauce can elevate any stir fry.
  • Healthy: Packed with nutrients from broccoli and lean beef, it’s a meal you can feel good about.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups broccoli florets

Equipment Needed

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Broccoli Beef Stir Fry Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger until the sugar is completely dissolved. In a separate small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. This will help thicken your sauce to the perfect consistency. Tip: For an extra kick, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of sesame oil. Add the thinly sliced flank steak and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until just browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure the beef gets a nice sear.

Step 3: Stir Fry the Broccoli

In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets and stir fry for about 5 minutes, until they’re bright green and slightly tender. If the skillet seems dry, add a splash of water to help steam the broccoli.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the beef to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour the prepared sauce over the top and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened and everything is well coated.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and serve your broccoli beef stir fry over a bed of steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for an extra touch of flavor and color.

Tips and Tricks

For the best results, make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. Stir fry dishes cook quickly, so having everything at hand will make the process smoother. If you’re not a fan of beef, this sauce works wonderfully with chicken, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. To save time, consider using pre-cut broccoli florets and pre-sliced beef from your grocery store. Lastly, don’t skip the cornstarch slurry; it’s key to achieving that glossy, thick sauce that clings to every bite.

Recipe Variations

  • Spicy Version: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the sauce mixture for a spicy kick.
  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef with tofu or a mix of your favorite vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms.
  • Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the brown sugar by half for a healthier version.
  • Nutty Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter into the sauce for a rich, nutty flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.

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

Flank steak is ideal for stir fry because it’s lean and cooks quickly. However, you can also use sirloin or ribeye for a more tender bite.

How can I make my stir fry sauce thicker?

If your sauce isn’t thickening to your liking, you can add a little more cornstarch slurry. Just mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce while it’s simmering.

Summary

This broccoli beef stir fry sauce recipe is a game-changer for quick, flavorful, and healthy weeknight meals. With its perfect balance of savory and sweet, it’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.

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