It is 6pm. You are tired. Dinner needs to happen fast. This Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry is your new secret weapon. It delivers a restaurant-style meal in just 30 minutes. It is perfect for those busy back-to-school nights. Your family will love the tender beef and curly noodles. This dish feels like a special treat after a long day.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a winner because it uses simple pantry staples. It is perfect for busy fall weeknights when time is short. You get a high-protein meal without the expensive takeout price. The savory soy-ginger glaze coats every single noodle perfectly. It is a balanced dish that even picky eaters enjoy. You will love how the fresh broccoli stays bright and crisp. It is a reliable way to get greens on the table. Your budget will also love this affordable meal.
Simple Method
This dish comes together in three easy stages. First, you whisk the sauce in a small bowl. Then, you sear the steak until it is golden. Finally, you toss everything together in one large pan. It is a one-pan wonder that saves you from doing dishes. Even if you are a beginner, you can do this. The method is straightforward and very forgiving. You will feel like a pro in your own kitchen.
Simple Ingredients
Most of these items are already in your kitchen right now. Fresh ginger and garlic make a huge difference here.
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced across the grain
- 2 packages instant ramen noodles, seasoning packets discarded
- 2 cups broccoli florets, bite-sized
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
Step-by-Step
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, cornstarch, and beef broth to create the sauce.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook ramen noodles for 2 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat.
- Add beef strips in a single layer and sear until browned, approximately 2-3 minutes per side. Remove beef from the pan and set aside.
- Add broccoli florets to the same pan with 2 tablespoons of water. Cover and steam for 3 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Return the beef to the pan and pour in the prepared sauce mixture.
- Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and glazes the beef and broccoli.
- Add the cooked ramen noodles and sesame oil to the pan. Toss thoroughly for 1 minute to coat everything in the sauce and serve hot.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this hot in big, cozy bowls for the family. You can top it with sesame seeds or fresh green onions. It is a complete meal on its own. Pair it with a side of spring rolls for a fun family feast. You can also serve it with a light cucumber salad. Set the table and enjoy a stress-free dinner together. It is the perfect way to warm up on a cool evening.
Keep It Fresh
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to three days. Reheat it in a skillet with a splash of water. This keeps the noodles from getting too dry or sticky. Meal prep these for easy lunches all week long. You can also freeze the beef and sauce together. Just add fresh noodles and broccoli when you are ready. It is a great way to stay ahead of the week.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip slicing the beef against the grain for tenderness.
- Use a high heat to get a beautiful golden sear.
- Discard the ramen flavor packets to control the salt levels.
- Prep your veggies ahead of time to save precious minutes.
- Add a splash of Sriracha if you like a little heat.
- Use fresh ginger for the most vibrant flavor profile.
- Make sure the pan is very hot before adding the beef.
- Steam the broccoli just until it is bright green and crisp.
Easy Flavor Ideas
- Swap beef for shrimp or chicken if you prefer.
- Add snap peas or bell peppers for extra color.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce for a heart-healthy option.
- Try a gluten-free version by using brown rice noodles.
- Add a handful of cashews for a satisfying crunch.
Quick Answers
Can I use frozen broccoli for this?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this stir fry. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Pat it dry so it does not water down the sauce.
What is the best beef for stir-fry?
Flank steak or sirloin are excellent choices for this dish. They are lean and cook very quickly over high heat. Always slice them thin for the best texture.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can whisk the sauce and chop the beef a day early. This makes the actual cooking process take only ten minutes. It is a huge time-saver for busy nights.
I hope this meal brings comfort to your table tonight. It is the perfect way to end a busy fall day. Enjoy every bite of this Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry with your loved ones.
— Katie Wood
Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced across the grain
- 2 packages instant ramen noodles, seasoning packets discarded
- 2 cups broccoli florets, bite-sized
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 3 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarc h
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, cornstarch, and beef broth to create the sauce.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook ramen noodles for 2 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat.
- Add beef strips in a single layer and sear until browned, approximately 2-3 minutes per side. Remove beef from the pan and set aside.
- Add broccoli florets to the same pan with 2 tablespoons of water. Cover and steam for 3 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Return the beef to the pan and pour in the prepared sauce mixture.
- Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and glazes the beef and broccoli.
- Add the cooked ramen noodles and sesame oil to the pan. Toss thoroughly for 1 minute to coat everything in the sauce and serve hot.
