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Who says you can’t enjoy a delicious, restaurant-style meal at home, just for you? Try our single serve Beef and Broccoli For One – a quick, simple, and incredibly flavorful dish that makes dinner feel special. Imagine tender slices of beef and fresh, crunchy broccoli, all coated in a rich, savory stir-fry sauce. This classic dish is perfectly portioned for one, showing that a satisfying meal doesn’t need hours in the kitchen. You can have this takeout favorite on your table in less than 30 minutes, and you only need one pan for easy cleanup.
Explore more single serving Asian-inspired flavors with our selection of dishes, including Kung Pao Chicken, Pepper Steak, Mongolian Beef, and Shrimp Fried Rice.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Beef And Broccoli Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Cooks in about 20 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
- One Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single skillet.
- Flavor-Packed: A delicious combination of tender beef and crisp broccoli in a savory stir-fry sauce.
- Perfectly Portioned: Specifically designed for one or two servings, eliminating waste.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and vitamins, it’s a balanced meal on its own.
RELATED: Easy Ground Beef Recipes
Ingredients
Notes and Substitutions
This section provides a quick rundown of the ingredients used in this easy Beef and Broccoli recipe. For complete measurements and step-by-step instructions, please scroll to the recipe card located at the bottom of this post.
- Fresh Ginger: It adds a warm, spicy flavor to any dish. If fresh ginger isn’t available, you can substitute with 1/8 tsp of ground ginger. Consider using fresh ginger for this recipe and then explore its versatility in our other dishes like Chicken Tikka Masala, Thai Shrimp Soup, and a refreshing Green Smoothie. It’s a great way to make the most of this and other ingredients by trying various recipes from our website.
- Garlic: Key for aroma and flavor, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- Soy Sauce: Provides the salty, umami depth. I like using low-sodium soy sauce so I can better control the salt content of the dish. For a gluten-free alternative, use Tamari.
- Brown Sugar: Balances the flavors with sweetness. Honey or maple syrup are great substitutes. If you don’t have brown sugar, consider making a small batch with our brown sugar recipe.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce.
- Flank Steak: Lean and flavorsome, but sirloin or chuck steak can be used too. If you have a little extra meat leftover, consider using it in Carne Asada or Steak Fajitas.
- Olive Oil: In my Beef and Broccoli recipe and all others needing olive oil, I use extra virgin olive oil, the least processed and highest quality type. It retains the authentic olive flavor and more nutrients. While it’s my preferred choice, light olive oil is a suitable substitute.
- Broccoli Florets: The star vegetable, but feel free to add bell peppers or snap peas for variety. If you have leftover broccoli, you love using it in a Broccoli Salad or in Chicken Divan.
- Sesame Seeds: Add a nutty crunch. Optional but recommended.
If you have any ingredients leftover from this single serving Beef and Broccoli recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder.
Recipe Variations
Enjoying the best Beef and Broccoli recipe but thinking of trying something different? Here are some recipe variations that offer a fresh twist while still capturing the essence of this dish.
- Protein Swap: Use chicken or tofu instead of beef for a different protein choice.
- Veggie Loaded: Add more vegetables like mushrooms or carrots for extra nutrition.
- Sauce Twist: Experiment with adding a bit of oyster sauce or hoisin for a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Beef and Broccoli: Use Tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
- Spice It Up: Incorporate chili flakes or a bit of Sriracha for a spicy kick.
RELATED: 4 Single Serving Meals From 1 Pound Of Ground Beef
How To Thinly Slice Flank Steak For Beef And Broccoli
- Freeze the steak for 20 minutes before slicing. This will make the steak easier to slice and will help to prevent it from tearing. If you don’t have time to freeze the steak, you can still slice it thinly. However, it will be a little more difficult and the steak may tear more easily.
- Use a sharp knife. A sharp knife will make it easier to slice the steak thinly and evenly.
- Slice against the grain. This will help to tenderize the steak and make it easier to chew.
- Hold the steak with one hand and slice it with the other. Use a sawing motion to slice the steak thinly.
- Cut the steak into strips that are about 1/4-inch thick. This is the ideal thickness for Beef and Broccoli.
How To Make Beef And Broccoli For One
These step-by-step photos and instructions help you visualize how to make this easy Beef and Broccoli recipe. See the recipe box below for ingredient amounts and full recipe instructions.
- Prep the Steak: To simplify slicing, first place the steak in the freezer for 20 minutes. Then, slice it into 1/4-inch strips and set them aside.
- Create the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together ginger, minced garlic, soy sauce, water, brown sugar, cornstarch, and pepper. Stir well and set aside.
- Cook the Broccoli: Heat 1/2 tablespoon of oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat. Add broccoli florets, cover with a lid, and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes, occasionally turning the florets until they are crisp-tender. Then, transfer the broccoli to a plate and cover to keep warm.
- Sear the Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Once hot, place the beef in a single layer and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked through.
- Simmer the Sauce: Add the prepared sauce to the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens. If needed, thin the sauce with a tablespoon or two of water.
- Combine and Heat: Return the broccoli to the pan, stirring to combine everything well.
- Serve: Dish out over cooked rice and enjoy your homemade Beef and Broccoli.
Expert Tips
- Read through the entire recipe and the Ingredient Notes section of the post and gather your ingredients. We provide a lot of information within the body of this recipe post to ensure that your Beef and Broccoli comes out perfectly every time. This dish comes together quickly so it’s a good idea to fully understand the recipe and have everything ready before beginning.
- Prep Ahead: Have all your ingredients chopped and ready to go – stir-frying is a fast process!
- Slice Against the Grain: Cut the beef against the grain for tender, easy-to-chew slices.
- Cooking the Beef: For a perfect sear, use medium-high heat.
- Sauce Consistency: Adjust the thickness by adding a bit more water if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Looking for ways to serve Beef and Broccoli? Here are some ideas:
- Serve Over Rice: A bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice makes a classic pairing.
- Noodle It Up: Swap rice with buttered noodles for a twist.
- Extra Greens: Toss in extra veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for more nutrition and color.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of light red wine, like Pinot Noir, complements the dish beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Beef and Broccoli is best enjoyed freshly made, but you can prepare the stir fry sauce up to 2 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, though best when enjoyed right after it is made.
Yes, you can. Thaw the broccoli before cooking, and note that you may need to extend the cooking time by a minute or so.
Yes, you certainly can. Just be sure to use a larger pan to accommodate the increased quantity of ingredients.
Ways To Use Leftover Ingredients
If you have any ingredients leftover from this recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder or you might like to consider using them in any of these single serving and small batch recipes:
If you’ve made this easy Beef and Broccoli stir fry recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Please rate the recipe and share your thoughts in the comments below.
Snapped a photo? Tag us on Instagram; we’d be thrilled to see your creation!
Beef And Broccoli For One
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 (6 to 8 ounce) flank steak
Stir Fry Sauce Ingredients
- ¼ teaspoon freshly grated ginger , loosely packed
- 1 clove garlic , minced
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- ⅛ teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
For the beef and broccoli
- 1 tablespoon olive oil , divided
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- ½ teaspoon sesame seeds
To serve
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional)
Instructions
Prep the steak
- To simplify slicing, first place the steak in the freezer for 20 minutes. Then, slice it into 1/4-inch strips and set them aside.
Make the sauce
- In a small bowl, mix together ginger, minced garlic, soy sauce, water, brown sugar, cornstarch, and pepper. Stir well and set aside.
Cook the broccoli
- Heat 1/2 tablespoon of oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat. Add broccoli florets, cover with a lid, and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes, occasionally turning the florets until they are crisp-tender. Then, transfer the broccoli to a plate and cover to keep warm.
Sear the beef and simmer the sauce
- Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Once hot, place the beef in a single layer and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked through.
- Add the prepared sauce to the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens. If needed, thin the sauce with a tablespoon or two of water.
- Return the broccoli to the pan, stirring to combine everything well.
Serve
- Dish out over cooked rice and enjoy your homemade Beef and Broccoli.
Notes
- Read through the entire recipe and the Ingredient Notes section of the post and gather your ingredients. We provide a lot of information within the body of this recipe post to ensure that your Beef and Broccoli comes out perfectly every time. This dish comes together quickly so it’s a good idea to fully understand the recipe and have everything ready before beginning.
- Prep Ahead: Have all your ingredients chopped and ready to go – stir-frying is a fast process!
- Slice Against the Grain: Cut the beef against the grain for tender, easy-to-chew slices.
- Cooking the Beef: For a perfect sear, use medium-high heat.
- Sauce Consistency: Adjust the thickness by adding a bit more water if needed.
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
Love this meal made it for myself once, then the both of us now many a time. We love how you can make the sauce as sticky as you like or runny if you add more water/less time on the heat. The broccoli actually tastes like broccoli when you put it all together doesn’t go to mush like some recipes! Delicious!
I love this recipe and have made it several times. I like to add thinly sliced onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper and matchstick carrots to the broccoli. Double or even triple the sauce recipe if you’re going to do that and be prepared to eat twice (or more). It’s so good that it’s not a trial to eat more than one time. Wonderful!
Better than takeout! This was so easy and delicious. The fresh ginger and garlic added a touch of spice. I prepped all the ingredients and made the sauce. Started my rice and began cooking. 20 minutes later I was dishing it up. I added 2 sliced green onions. Next time I will add carrots, mushrooms and maybe snow peas. This has such a versatile sauce – much better than the bottled ones
Thank you so much! I’m so happy you enjoyed it.
Loved it! Will double sauce next time,. Very happy to have these single servings—-thanks so much Joanie!!l
I’m so happy you enjoyed it!
Made this deliscous dish for dinner last night. It was so GOOD, I’m making it again tonight!
Terrific recipe.
Thank you!