Beef with Garlic Sauce Stir-Fry Recipe

If you’re craving that bold, satisfying flavor of takeout but want to make it fresh and at home, I’ve got you covered with this fan-freaking-tastic Beef with Garlic Sauce Stir-Fry Recipe. This dish hits all the right notes – tender beef, crunchy broccoli, and a garlicky sauce that will have you going back for seconds (and thirds). Trust me, once you try this, your family and friends will be begging you to whip it up again.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Beef with Garlic Sauce Stir-Fry Recipe lies in its simple, fresh ingredients – nothing fancy, just straightforward pantry staples and fresh produce that come together effortlessly.

• Flank steak (or similar cut): This cut is great because when sliced thin against the grain, it stays tender and cooks quickly.
• Broccoli florets: Fresh is best for crispy, bright green florets that add a perfect crunch.
• Green onions: Use the green parts for garnish and fresh bite – they really brighten the whole dish.
• Baking soda: This little secret tenderizes the beef, so don’t skip it!
• Vegetable oil (I use avocado oil): A high smoke point oil is key for stir-frying to get those nice sears.
• Fresh minced garlic: Loads of it! Garlic is the star of the sauce.
• Salt & fresh cracked black pepper: For seasoning the beef and balancing flavors.
• Chicken broth (or water): Adds depth and helps form the silky sauce.
• Cornstarch: Creates that perfect sauce thickness that clings to beef and broccoli.
• Black vinegar (or rice vinegar): Adds a subtle tanginess that cuts through the richness.
• Light brown sugar: Balances the acidity with a touch of sweetness.
• Soy sauce: The umami backbone of the sauce.
• Dark soy sauce (optional): Adds a deeper color and complexity, but it’s totally optional.
• Oyster sauce: Imparts savory depth and a slight sweetness, essential for authentic flavor.
• Toasted sesame oil: Just a splash at the end for aroma and nuttiness.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): For a little heat if you’re feeling spicy.

Variations

I love how flexible this Beef with Garlic Sauce Stir-Fry Recipe is. You can easily tailor it to your tastes or what you have on hand, and it still turns out delicious every time.

• Protein swap: I once swapped flank steak for thinly sliced chicken breast when I was out of beef, and it turned out just as flavorful!
• Veggie boost: Try adding bell peppers, snap peas, or baby corn alongside the broccoli to sneak in extra color and texture.
• Heat level: For spice lovers, doubling the red pepper flakes or adding a dash of chili oil really kicks up the heat.
• Gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and check your oyster sauce label, and you’re good to go.

How to Make Beef with Garlic Sauce Stir-Fry Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Tenderize the Beef

Start by slicing the flank steak very thinly against the grain—this is key to tender beef that doesn’t feel chewy. Lay the slices flat on a cutting board or a plate, then sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of baking soda evenly over the beef. Flip the meat and dust the other side with the remaining baking soda. Let it sit for 15 minutes. This trick seriously works wonders; when I first tried it, I was amazed by the difference! After 15 minutes, rinse the beef under cold water to wash off the baking soda, then pat each piece dry thoroughly with paper towels. Finally, season one side lightly with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

Step 2: Make the Savory Garlic Sauce

While the beef is resting, mix together the chicken broth and cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth. Then stir in black vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), and set aside. Don’t worry if the oyster sauce isn’t fully mixing in—that’ll even out once heated in the pan.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Heat your vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef slices, arranging them so they lay flat and have some space. Let them cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to get a nice crisp on one side. Then toss the beef around and cook for another 90 seconds or so until cooked through. Don’t be alarmed if the beef looks a little pinkish inside—that’s normal thanks to the tenderizing step.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Broccoli and Garlic

Reduce heat to medium. Push the beef pieces to the edges of the pan and add broccoli florets in the center. Add a little extra oil if the pan feels dry. Stir-fry for about two minutes until broccoli starts to become bright green and crisp tender. Then push the broccoli aside and add the minced garlic right in the center with a splash more oil. Sauté just until the garlic becomes fragrant, usually about one minute—don’t let it burn or you’ll get a bitter flavor.

Step 5: Combine and Finish the Sauce

Turn the heat down to medium-low and pour your prepared sauce mixture into the pan. Stir everything quickly and continuously so the sauce thickens nicely and evenly coats the beef and broccoli. This step is where all the flavors marry and the dish comes alive.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat, toss in the sliced green onions and a drizzle of toasted sesame oil, then give it one last stir. Serve immediately over steamed jasmine or white rice for the ultimate comfort meal experience.

How to Serve Beef with Garlic Sauce Stir-Fry Recipe

Garnishes

I always sprinkle a handful of sliced green onions and a light drizzle of toasted sesame oil right before serving. If I’m feeling fancy, a few toasted sesame seeds add a lovely crunch and nuttiness that pulls it all together.

Side Dishes

This stir-fry goes hand in hand with simple jasmine rice, but I’ve also served it alongside brown rice for a healthier twist. Sometimes I add a side of steamed dumplings or egg rolls to round out the meal for guests, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like serving this beef stir-fry family-style in a beautiful large platter with extra fresh green onions and chili flakes on the side so everyone can customize their own bites. You can also scoop it into lettuce wraps for a fun, finger-food option that’s great for parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The beef stays juicy and the broccoli keeps a bit of its crunch, though it softens slightly. It makes for a quick lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well in individual portions. Just let it cool, pack it tightly in freezer-safe containers, and use within 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and revive a bit of freshness. The beef reheats quickly without drying out if you don’t overcook it.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Beef with Garlic Sauce Stir-Fry Recipe transforms a simple home meal into a restaurant-quality dish. The tender beef combined with that rich, garlicky sauce feels comforting and special all at once. When I first tried making it at home, I was surprised at how easy it was and how the flavors just pop. You’ll find that once you get this down, it becomes one of your go-to recipes for busy nights or casual dinners with friends. So grab your skillet, prep that beef, and I promise you’ll love every delicious bite!

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