Beef Stir Fry with Broccoli and Bell Peppers

Beef Stir Fry with Broccoli and Bell Peppers is a quick and flavorful Asian-inspired dish made with tender strips of beef, crisp vegetables, and a savory garlic-soy sauce. Served over rice, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that combines protein, color, and freshness in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This stir fry is fast, full of flavor, and highly customizable. The beef is tender and juicy, the vegetables stay vibrant and crisp, and the sauce brings it all together with rich umami notes. It’s a healthier alternative to takeout and can be made in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy schedules.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Flank steak or sirloin (thinly sliced against the grain)
• Broccoli florets
• Red and yellow bell peppers (sliced)
• Garlic (minced)
• Ginger (fresh, grated)
• Soy sauce
• Oyster sauce or hoisin sauce
• Cornstarch
• Brown sugar or honey
• Sesame oil
• Vegetable oil (for stir frying)
• Cooked white rice
• Green onions (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (optional)

directions

1. In a bowl, toss sliced beef with a mixture of soy sauce, cornstarch, and a little sesame oil. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over high heat. Stir fry beef in batches until browned, about 2 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add more oil if needed and sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds.
4. Add broccoli and bell peppers. Stir fry until slightly tender but still crisp, about 3–4 minutes.
5. Return the beef to the pan.
6. Stir in soy sauce, oyster or hoisin sauce, and a touch of brown sugar. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
7. Cook for another 1–2 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and everything is heated through.
8. Serve over cooked rice and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 3–4 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Low-Carb Version: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Spicy Kick: Add red chili flakes or sliced fresh chilies to the stir fry.
• Different Protein: Substitute beef with chicken, tofu, or shrimp.
• Extra Sauce: Double the sauce ingredients if you like a saucier stir fry.
• Add Nuts: Include roasted cashews or peanuts for crunch.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until hot. The texture of the vegetables may soften slightly upon reheating. Not recommended for freezing, as the vegetables may become mushy.

FAQs

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

Flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin work well when sliced thinly against the grain.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, but thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the stir fry.

Is oyster sauce necessary?

It adds depth, but you can substitute hoisin sauce or use more soy sauce if needed.

Can I prep this in advance?

Yes, slice beef and vegetables, and make the sauce ahead of time. Cook when ready to eat.

How do I keep the beef tender?

Slice it thinly against the grain and don’t overcook. Marinating also helps.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and check that your oyster sauce is gluten-free.

What oil is best for stir frying?

High smoke-point oils like vegetable, peanut, or canola oil are ideal.

Do I need a wok?

A wok is helpful but not necessary—a large skillet works just fine.

Can I add noodles?

Yes, stir in cooked rice noodles or lo mein for a delicious variation.

How do I avoid soggy vegetables?

Cook over high heat and don’t overcrowd the pan to maintain crispness.

Conclusion

Beef Stir Fry with Broccoli and Bell Peppers is a vibrant, quick, and satisfying meal that delivers restaurant-quality flavor in your own kitchen. With tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce, it’s the kind of dish that makes a regular appearance on the dinner table. Versatile, healthy, and fast—this recipe is a keeper.

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