Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Garlic-Sesame Sauce

The backstory.

This version was born from a late-night craving for Mongolian beef and broccoli. I challenged myself to make a healthier, faster version than delivery and succeeded. It quickly became a household favorite: bold, comforting, and ready in under 30 minutes. Even the pickiest eaters asked for seconds.

xoxo Kori

It’s a must-make.

30-Minute Meal. This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without the fuss.

One Pan Clean-Up. Everything finishes in one skillet, so cleanup is quick.

Healthy, High-Protein, Low Carb. The dish is protein-forward and naturally low in carbs when paired with cauliflower rice or a leafy wrap.

Tastes Better Than Takeout. The sesame-ginger sauce is balanced and fresh, and you control the ingredients and seasoning.

I made this on a bet with myself… and I totally beat the delivery driver. 😉

What you’ll need.

The ingredient list looks long but most items go into the sauce and everything comes together quickly. Key components:

• Sirloin or eye of round – thinly sliced against the grain for tenderness (pre-sliced sizzle steak saves time)
• Broccoli florets – briefly steamed first for fast stir-frying
• Oil – olive, avocado, or another neutral oil for searing
• Garlic and ginger – fresh or paste for convenience
• Coconut aminos, tamari, or soy sauce – pick based on dietary needs
• Brown sugar or sugar substitute – monk fruit works for low-carb; regular brown sugar is fine otherwise
• Sesame oil and red pepper flakes for flavor
• Scallions and sesame seeds for finishing
• Xanthan gum or cornstarch to thicken the sauce

Make it your way.

• Not low carb? Use regular soy sauce and brown sugar.
• Swap broccoli for cauliflower, zucchini, or mushrooms for variety.
• If you prefer no thickeners, simmer the sauce a little longer to reduce it.
• Use a cornstarch slurry (2–3 teaspoons cornstarch whisked with an equal amount of cold water) if you don’t have xanthan gum.
• Fresh grated ginger is a great substitute for ginger paste when you have the time.
• Any neutral cooking oil works for the sear: olive, avocado, vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.
• Start with ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes for mild heat and increase to taste.

Flexible dietary swaps.

This recipe adapts easily to different diets without losing flavor.

• Low Carb: Use coconut aminos and a brown sugar substitute to keep carbs low.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos and confirm thickeners are gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Naturally dairy-free—no changes needed.
• Soy-Free: Use coconut aminos instead of soy-based sauces.
• Low Sodium: Choose low-sodium soy or tamari and reduce added salt.
• Vegetarian/Vegan: Swap beef for extra-firm tofu or seared tempeh and follow the same steps.

How to make this beef and broccoli stir-fry recipe.

The method is simple and ideal for weeknights. Prep first, sear the beef, make the sauce, then combine.

Prep

Dissolve the xanthan gum in a small amount of oil. Season the beef with salt and pepper. Steam the broccoli briefly until just crisp-tender to speed up the final stir-fry.

Stir fry the beef.

Heat oil in a hot skillet and sear the beef in a single layer until browned on both sides. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding and keep slices tender. Remove and keep warm.

Sauce and finish.

Sauté garlic and scallions, add ginger, coconut aminos (or soy/tamari), brown sugar or substitute, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, and the thickener mixture. Cook until the sauce thickens, then return the beef and broccoli to the pan and toss until heated through. Finish with sesame seeds and extra scallions.

How to serve it.

Here are a few serving suggestions that work well with this beef and broccoli:

• Over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
• With steamed jasmine rice for a classic takeout feel
• Wrapped in lettuce leaves for a lighter, handheld option

Kori’s tips.

• Slice beef thin (about ¼ inch) for fast, even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan—sear in batches for the best caramelization.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, loosen with a splash of broth or water.

Storing and reheating suggestions.

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals, or warm on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth.

Can I ask you a favor?

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Healthy Beef and Broccoli Recipe Stir Fry

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