If you’re looking for a deliciously simple, satisfying dinner that packs a flavorful punch, this Easy Beef Stir Fry Recipe is exactly what you need. Perfectly tender slices of flank steak come together with vibrant, crisp vegetables in a rich, savory-sweet sauce that’s balanced with just a hint of spice. Whether you’re short on time or simply craving a wholesome meal that feels like a treat, this stir fry delivers with minimal fuss but maximum taste, making it one of those go-to dishes you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by stir fry recipes—this one keeps it straightforward with fresh, everyday ingredients that create layers of texture and flavor. Each component has a purpose, from the juicy steak to the crunchy vegetables, and the sauce that ties it all together beautifully.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons divided): Adds a subtle fruitiness and is perfect for high-heat cooking without overpowering the other flavors.
- Flank steak (1 pound): This lean cut is ideal for quick cooking and stays tender when sliced thinly against the grain.
- Medium onion (sliced): Brings sweetness and depth that caramelizes slightly when cooked.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups): Offers crunch and vibrant green color for a fresh contrast.
- Red bell pepper (cut into small pieces): Adds both sweetness and a pop of red to brighten the dish.
- Low-sodium soy sauce (1/2 cup): Forms the salty, umami backbone of the sauce without overwhelming the palate.
- Water (1/2 cup): Helps dilute the sauce ingredients for perfect consistency.
- Honey (1/4 cup): Balances the savory soy sauce with natural sweetness.
- Fresh grated ginger (1 teaspoon): Brings a warm, zesty kick that livens up the dish.
- Minced garlic (3-4 cloves): Essential aromatic that makes the sauce irresistibly savory.
- Apple cider vinegar (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a bright, tangy note to cut through the richness.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon or more): For a mild heat that awakens the taste buds without overpowering.
- Cornstarch (3 tablespoons): Thickens the sauce to a luscious, glossy finish.
How to Make Easy Beef Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prep Everything First
Before you turn on the heat, get all your ingredients ready because stir frying is a quick process. Trim the flank steak of any fat and slice it thinly across the grain to ensure tenderness. Whisk together the soy sauce, water, honey, ginger, garlic, vinegar, red pepper flakes, and cornstarch in a bowl—this is your magic sauce that will bring all the flavors together.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over high heat until shimmering. Toss in the onion, broccoli, and red bell pepper. Stir frequently as they cook for 4 to 5 minutes until tender but still crisp—this keeps their natural crunch and vibrant colors intact. Once done, transfer the veggies to a plate to make room for the beef.
Step 3: Sear the Beef
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet and let it heat up. Spread the beef slices in a single layer and resist the urge to stir immediately; let the beef sear undisturbed for about a minute so it gets that lovely caramelized surface. Then stir and flip the slices, cooking for about another minute. Remember, you want the beef just cooked through but still juicy—overcooking can make it tough.
Step 4: Combine Everything and Thicken the Sauce
Return the cooked vegetables to the pan with the beef and pour in the prepared sauce. Toss everything together and stir continuously for 1 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients beautifully, creating a glossy, irresistible coating.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Take the skillet off the heat and serve the stir fry piping hot over steamed rice or your favorite noodles. The entire process is a breeze, making this an ideal recipe when you want dinner on the table without sacrificing flavor.
How to Serve Easy Beef Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your easy beef stir fry recipe, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or freshly chopped green onions on top right before serving. These little touches add an extra layer of texture and brightness that really complement the dish’s rich flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair this stir fry with fluffy jasmine rice or chewy udon noodles to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce. A simple cucumber salad or steamed dumplings on the side can also round out the meal and add some refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the stir fry inside lettuce cups for a lighter, hand-held option. Or dish it up in individual bowls layered with crispy fried shallots and a wedge of lime for an extra zesty kick. Presentation can make even a straightforward Easy Beef Stir Fry Recipe feel special and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover stir fry to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The beef and vegetables will retain their flavor well, though the texture of the vegetables will soften somewhat.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s best to freeze the beef and sauce separately from the vegetables to preserve freshness. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and consume within 1-2 months for optimum taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat to prevent the beef from becoming tough. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to keep the sauce from drying out. Avoid microwaving whenever possible for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this stir fry?
Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal for quick cooking and tenderness, sirloin or skirt steak also work well. Just be sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain for the best texture.
Is it okay to substitute the vegetables?
Definitely. Feel free to swap in snap peas, carrots, mushrooms, or baby corn based on your preference or what you have on hand. The key is to keep the veggies cut uniformly for even cooking.
How spicy is this Easy Beef Stir Fry Recipe?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth, but you can adjust them to your liking. Omit for a milder version or increase for a more pronounced kick.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The sauce can be mixed up a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good whisk before adding to the stir fry to recombine the cornstarch and liquids.
What can I serve with this stir fry to make it a full meal?
Steamed rice or noodles are classics, but you can also serve it with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a different twist. Adding a simple side salad or miso soup rounds out the meal perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Beef Stir Fry Recipe is one of those treasures that brings big flavors with minimal effort. It’s perfect for weeknights when you want something delicious, quick, and comforting. Give it a try—you might find yourself making it over and over, sharing it with friends and family as your new favorite dinner.
Print
Easy Beef Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A quick and flavorful Easy Beef Stir Fry recipe featuring tender flank steak and crisp vegetables tossed in a savory honey-ginger soy sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner served over rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Beef and Vegetables
- 1 pound flank steak
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets, cut into small pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into small pieces
Sauce
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
Other
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients and Sauce: Begin by trimming any fat from the flank steak and slicing it thinly across the grain into bite-sized pieces. Prepare your rice or noodles if serving alongside. In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, water, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, crushed red pepper flakes, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Heat Oil and Cook Vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add the sliced onion, broccoli florets, and red bell pepper. Stir and cook the vegetables for 4 to 5 minutes until they become tender-crisp. Transfer the cooked veggies to a plate and set aside.
- Sear the Beef: Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Spread the beef pieces evenly in a single layer and let them cook undisturbed for about one minute to develop a good sear. Flip and stir the beef, cooking for an additional minute. Be careful not to overcook as the beef should remain slightly rare for tenderness.
- Combine and Thicken Sauce: Return the cooked vegetables to the skillet with the beef. Pour the prepared sauce over the meat and vegetables. Stir and toss everything together for 1 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients evenly.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and immediately serve the beef stir fry over cooked rice or noodles for a delicious, satisfying meal.
Notes
- Slice the beef thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
- Prepare rice or noodles ahead of time as cooking the stir fry is quick.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to taste for desired level of spiciness.
- Do not overcook the beef to keep it tender and juicy.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish.
