Garlic Beef and Broccoli Noodles Recipe
Garlic Beef and Broccoli Noodles are a deliciously savory, Asian-inspired meal with tender strips of beef, fresh broccoli florets, and flavorful noodles tossed in a garlic-infused sauce. This dish has a fantastic mix of textures, vibrant colors, and layers of flavor that make it perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Whether you’re a fan of Asian cuisine or just looking for a new, simple dinner recipe, Garlic Beef and Broccoli Noodles combine a comfort-food feel with a quick cooking process that makes it ideal for busy nights. This recipe also offers an opportunity to add your own twist, such as customizing the spice level, adding more vegetables, or adjusting the sauce to fit your taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with Flavor: The garlic-infused sauce gives depth, while soy sauce and sesame oil provide a touch of umami that makes this dish unforgettable.
- Healthy Ingredients: Broccoli and lean beef provide a balance of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
- Simple and Quick: The recipe can be completed in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.
- Versatile: You can add your favorite vegetables or use gluten-free noodles, making it customizable to fit your preferences.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Whisk until smooth.
- Coat the Beef: Add the thinly sliced beef to the bowl, tossing to coat the meat evenly with the marinade. Allow the beef to marinate for about 10-15 minutes. This step helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
- Boil Water: In a pot, bring water to a boil and add a pinch of salt.
- Cook the Noodles: Add the noodles of your choice and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
- Toss with Sesame Oil: Drizzle the cooked noodles with a teaspoon of sesame oil to prevent them from sticking together. This also adds extra flavor to the final dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Stir until the sugar dissolves, creating a smooth sauce.
- Set Aside: Keep the sauce nearby, as you’ll add it towards the end of cooking.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Beef
- Heat Oil in a Skillet: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Beef: Add the marinated beef to the skillet in a single layer. Let it sear for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until it’s browned and cooked through. Transfer the cooked beef to a plate and set it aside.
Step 5: Stir-Fry the Broccoli and Garlic
- Add More Oil: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Cook the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the broccoli becomes tender-crisp.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic (and grated ginger if using) to the skillet, stirring continuously for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 6: Combine Everything
- Return Beef to the Skillet: Add the cooked beef back to the skillet with the broccoli and garlic.
- Pour in the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and broccoli, stirring everything together to coat the ingredients evenly.
- Add Noodles: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing gently with tongs to ensure the noodles are well-coated in the sauce and mixed with the beef and broccoli.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
- Plate the Dish: Transfer the Garlic Beef and Broccoli Noodles to a serving platter or individual bowls.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes for an extra kick, if desired.
- Serve Warm: This dish is best enjoyed fresh off the skillet when the flavors are at their peak.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Cutting the Beef Thinly: Place the beef in the freezer for about 20 minutes before slicing. This firms up the meat, making it easier to cut thinly.
- Blanching the Broccoli: If you prefer softer broccoli, you can blanch it in boiling water for 1-2 minutes before adding it to the skillet.
- Avoid Overcrowding: When cooking the beef, avoid overcrowding the skillet. This allows the beef to sear properly instead of steaming.
- Add More Vegetables: Bell peppers, snow peas, or mushrooms make great additions for added flavor and nutrition.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Beef and Broccoli Noodles: Add sriracha or chili paste to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Low-Carb Version: Use zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles instead of regular noodles for a lower-carb option.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and use rice noodles.
- Teriyaki Flavor: Replace the soy sauce and brown sugar with teriyaki sauce for a sweeter, tangier taste.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep the noodles from drying out. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes.
- Freeze: Although fresh is best, you can freeze this dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Beef and Broccoli Noodles make a fantastic meal on their own, but they can be served with side dishes for a fuller meal:
- Spring Rolls: Serve with vegetable spring rolls for a delightful appetizer.
- Soup: A light miso or egg drop soup complements the noodles well.
- Salad: A simple cucumber or seaweed salad adds a refreshing balance to the rich flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different protein besides beef?
Yes, you can substitute the beef with chicken, shrimp, or tofu to match your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
2. What’s the best way to prevent the noodles from sticking?
After draining, toss the noodles with a bit of sesame oil. This not only prevents sticking but adds a subtle nutty flavor.
3. Can I make this recipe in advance?
You can prepare and store the sauce and cut the ingredients in advance, but for the best texture, cook everything fresh. If reheating, use a splash of water or sauce to prevent the noodles from drying out.
4. How can I make this dish less salty?
Choose a low-sodium soy sauce, or reduce the soy sauce slightly and adjust other seasonings to taste.
This Garlic Beef and Broccoli Noodles recipe is a flavorful, comforting, and nutritious meal you’ll want to make again and again. Perfect for busy nights or weekend cravings, this recipe is sure to satisfy!
Garlic Beef and Broccoli Noodles Recipe
Garlic Beef and Broccoli Noodles are a deliciously savory, Asian-inspired meal with tender strips of beef, fresh broccoli florets, and flavorful noodles tossed in a garlic-infused sauce. This dish has a fantastic mix of textures, vibrant colors, and layers of flavor that make it perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 8 oz beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 8 oz noodles (lo mein, spaghetti, or rice noodles work well)
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced (optional)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the Noodles:
- Cook noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, and sesame oil. Set aside.
3. Cook the Broccoli:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add broccoli and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vibrant green and slightly tender. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Cook the Beef:
- Add another tablespoon of oil to the same skillet. Add sliced beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes. Remove and set aside with the broccoli.
5. Combine Everything:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining oil and sauté the garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Return the cooked noodles, broccoli, and beef to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the top and toss everything together until evenly coated and heated through.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Customize Veggies: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for more color and crunch.
- Spice It Up: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Meal Prep: This dish reheats well, making it great for meal prepping lunches for the week.