There’s something incredibly comforting about the sizzle of a hot wok and the aroma of garlic dancing in the air. This Savory Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry in Garlic Soy Sauce Glaze is the perfect recipe for busy weeknights when you crave a hearty, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s quick, satisfying, and bursting with rich, umami-packed flavor.
Inspired by classic Chinese-American takeout, this dish brings the restaurant experience right to your table—with fresher ingredients and less oil. I first made this stir-fry for a family dinner during a rainy fall evening. We wanted something warm, flavorful, and fast. The garlic soy glaze stole the spotlight that night, and ever since, it’s become a staple in our kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this stir-fry fits beautifully into your schedule and your skillet.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
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1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
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2 cups broccoli florets
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3 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tsp fresh ginger, minced (optional)
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2 tbsp water
For the Garlic Soy Sauce Glaze
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1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
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2 tbsp oyster sauce
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2 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tbsp cornstarch
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1/2 cup water
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1 tsp sesame oil
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1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
1. Prepare the Garlic Soy Sauce Glaze
Begin by preparing the essential element of this dish—the garlic soy sauce glaze. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the following ingredients:
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1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
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2 tablespoons oyster sauce
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2 tablespoons brown sugar
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1 tablespoon cornstarch
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1/2 cup water
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1 teaspoon sesame oil
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1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a hint of heat)
Mix until the brown sugar and cornstarch are completely dissolved. This glaze is the flavorful foundation of the entire dish. It’s thickened with cornstarch to create a glossy, clingy texture that coats the beef and broccoli beautifully. Once fully mixed, set the sauce aside. You’ll be adding it toward the end of the cooking process so it can infuse the stir-fry with its savory-sweet, garlicky richness.
2. Steam the Broccoli
Next, prep the broccoli to ensure it stays crisp-tender and vibrant. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets along with 2 tablespoons of water. Quickly cover the pan with a lid to trap the steam.
Let the broccoli steam for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until it turns a brilliant green and becomes slightly tender without losing its crunch. Steaming the broccoli before combining it with the beef ensures even cooking and a perfect texture. Once done, use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the broccoli and set it aside in a separate bowl. Keep it covered so it stays warm.
3. Sear the Beef
Now it’s time to cook the protein. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to the same skillet or wok. Allow the oil to heat up until shimmering. Working in batches, add your thinly sliced flank steak to the hot pan.
Stir-fry the beef for 2 to 3 minutes per batch, just until the slices are browned on the outside and cooked through. Don’t crowd the pan—adding too much meat at once will cause the beef to steam instead of sear, which can make it tough and less flavorful. For best results, use tongs or a spatula to toss the beef quickly and evenly. Once all batches are cooked, return all of the browned beef back into the pan.
4. Add Garlic and Ginger
To deepen the flavor, add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon of fresh grated ginger (if using) to the hot beef. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds, or just until the aromatics are fragrant. Be careful here—garlic can burn quickly, especially at high heat, so stir constantly and watch closely.
5. Add the Garlic Soy Sauce
Now pour in the garlic soy sauce glaze you prepared earlier. Immediately begin stirring to coat the beef evenly. The cornstarch in the sauce will begin to thicken quickly as it heats up, transforming the liquid into a silky, rich glaze. Stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes, ensuring that the sauce thickens evenly and nothing sticks to the bottom of the pan.
6. Return the Broccoli and Combine
Once the sauce has thickened, add the steamed broccoli back into the pan. Use a spatula or tongs to gently toss the broccoli and beef together, ensuring that every piece is generously coated in the glaze. Stir-fry everything together for another 1 to 2 minutes, just enough to reheat the broccoli and allow the flavors to meld together. This final stir ensures a perfect balance of sauce, protein, and vegetables in every bite.
7. Serve
Remove the pan from the heat. Serve your savory beef and broccoli stir-fry immediately, while it’s still piping hot. Spoon it over fluffy steamed white rice, brown rice, or noodles, depending on your preference. For an extra layer of flavor and presentation, garnish with toasted sesame seeds or sliced green onions before serving.
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it also holds up well for meal prep and leftovers. Every bite is a delicious combination of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and that irresistible garlic soy glaze.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 395 kcal per serving
Why You’ll Love This Stir-Fry
1. Flavor-Packed and Family-Friendly
This dish delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal ingredients and effort. The savory garlic soy glaze clings to every piece of beef and broccoli, offering a balance of salty, sweet, and just a hint of heat. It’s a dish everyone in the family can enjoy, even picky eaters.
2. Quick and Easy for Weeknights
In just 30 minutes, you can have dinner on the table—without relying on takeout. The ingredients are simple, the steps are clear, and the reward is a filling meal made with love and real, whole ingredients.
3. Customizable and Versatile
Swap flank steak for chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Add bell peppers, snap peas, or baby corn. Make it spicy or keep it mild. This recipe is flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your tastes or use whatever veggies are in your fridge.
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Beef Selection
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Flank steak is ideal for stir-fries because of its tenderness when sliced thinly against the grain.
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You can also use skirt steak, sirloin, or ribeye if preferred.
Vegetables
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While broccoli is the classic pairing, feel free to add or substitute:
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Sliced bell peppers
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Snow peas
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Carrots (julienned)
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Mushrooms
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Garlic Soy Glaze
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Oyster sauce adds depth and a slight sweetness—if unavailable, substitute with hoisin sauce or a bit more soy sauce and sugar.
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Low-sodium soy sauce is preferred to prevent saltiness from overpowering the dish.
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Red pepper flakes are optional but add a subtle heat that enhances the glaze.
Aromatics
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Ginger is optional but elevates the flavor profile, adding warmth and complexity.
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Fresh garlic is non-negotiable—it’s what gives the sauce its signature bite.
Tips for Perfect Stir-Fry Results
1. Prep Everything First
Stir-frying is fast. Having all your ingredients chopped, measured, and ready to go before you heat the pan ensures a smooth cooking experience.
2. Slice the Beef Properly
Always slice beef against the grain. This shortens the muscle fibers, making the meat more tender and easier to chew.
3. Don’t Crowd the Pan
Cook the beef in batches to achieve a proper sear. Overcrowding leads to steaming, which reduces flavor and texture.
4. Use High Heat
Stir-frying is meant to be done quickly over high heat. A hot pan helps caramelize the beef and locks in flavor.
5. Thicken the Sauce Right
Cornstarch in the glaze will activate as the mixture simmers. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens to a shiny, clingy texture.
What to Serve with Beef and Broccoli
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Steamed Jasmine Rice – Soaks up the flavorful sauce beautifully.
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Brown Rice or Quinoa – For a healthier twist with extra fiber.
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Lo Mein Noodles – Toss them right into the stir-fry for a noodle dish.
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Fried Rice – A great way to use up leftovers.
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Asian Cucumber Salad – Adds a refreshing crunch on the side.
Storage and Reheating
Storing
Let leftovers cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating works too—just cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warm.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, but note that the texture of broccoli may change slightly after thawing. For best results:
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Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
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Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes. Thaw it before cooking and pat dry to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
Try hoisin sauce or add a teaspoon of fish sauce with extra brown sugar for similar umami depth.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written, but it can be! Use certified gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari) and make sure your oyster sauce is gluten-free as well.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely. Swap the beef for extra-firm tofu or a plant-based meat substitute. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Make It a Complete Meal
Want to build a full dinner around this dish? Try these pairings:
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Appetizer: Vegetable spring rolls with peanut dipping sauce
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Side Dish: Garlic green beans or egg drop soup
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Dessert: Mango sticky rice or lychee sorbet
Why This Stir-Fry Is a Must-Try
This Savory Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry isn’t just a recipe—it’s a game-changer for weeknight dinners. It’s easy enough for beginners, fast enough for hectic schedules, and flavorful enough to become a regular in your meal rotation. Every bite combines tender beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and a luscious garlic-soy glaze that clings to everything it touches.
Whether you’re looking to cut back on takeout, impress your family, or just try something new, this dish hits the mark. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and cook time of 15 minutes, it’s proof that great food doesn’t have to be complicated.
Final Thoughts
Cooking at home doesn’t have to be stressful or bland. This Savory Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry in Garlic Soy Sauce Glaze is a shining example of how simple ingredients can transform into something extraordinary with the right technique and flavors.
Try it tonight, serve it with pride, and don’t be surprised when someone asks for seconds—or the recipe.