Beef with Garlic Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving that mouthwatering flavor of takeout right in your own kitchen, you’ve got to try this Beef with Garlic Sauce Recipe. It’s loaded with tender, perfectly cooked beef and a rich, garlicky sauce that’s bursting with umami goodness. I absolutely love how this turns out every single time, and I think once you make it, you’ll have a new go-to dish for busy weeknights or casual dinners with friends.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Beef with Garlic Sauce Recipe lies in the combination of quality beef, fresh veggies, and the layered sauce flavors. When you pick your ingredients, opt for a tender cut like flank steak, and be sure to get fresh garlic and good-quality soy sauce for the best results.

• Flank steak: I like this cut because it’s lean but tender when sliced thinly across the grain.
• Broccoli florets: Adds a nice crunch and freshness; buy firm green stalks without yellowing.
• Green onions: Use the green tops for a mild onion flavor and a burst of color at the end.
• Baking soda: This might surprise you, but it’s the secret weapon that tenderizes the beef.
• Vegetable oil: Avocado oil or any neutral oil works great for high-heat cooking.
• Fresh garlic: Minced fresh garlic delivers the pungent punch this dish needs.
• Salt and black pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance the flavors naturally.
• Chicken broth: Creates a rich base for the sauce; you can substitute water in a pinch.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce beautifully without making it gloopy.
• Black vinegar or rice vinegar: Adds the essential tangy depth in the sauce.
• Light brown sugar: Balances the acidity with subtle sweetness.
• Soy sauce: Provides savory umami and color.
• Dark soy sauce (optional): For a deeper color and richer flavor.
• Oyster sauce: Key to that signature savory richness.
• Toasted sesame oil: A little goes a long way to bring warm nuttiness.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a mild spicy kick if you like heat.

Variations

One of the best parts about this Beef with Garlic Sauce Recipe is how flexible it is to customize. Whether you’re adjusting for dietary preferences, adding your favorite veggies, or kicking the heat up a notch, make it your own!

• Add More Veggies: I often toss in sliced bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and color—it gives the dish a fresh twist.
• Swap Beef Cuts: If flank steak isn’t handy, sirloin or skirt steak works well too, but keep an eye on cooking time.
• Make it Spicy: Red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil can bring this dish alive if you like heat; my family can never get enough!
• Low-Sodium Version: Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce added salt—you’ll still get great flavor but with less sodium.

How to Make Beef with Garlic Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Tenderize the Beef

Start by slicing your steak thinly against the grain—this keeps the meat tender. Lay the slices flat, and dust them evenly with baking soda on both sides. This may sound unusual, but baking soda breaks down proteins, making the beef incredibly soft. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly and pat dry. This step is a game changer for that classic takeout texture, so don’t skip it!

Step 2: Mix the Sauce Ingredients

While the beef is tenderizing, whisk together the chicken broth and cornstarch until smooth. Then stir in all the other sauce ingredients: black vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauces, oyster sauce, toasted sesame oil, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Don’t worry if the oyster sauce clumps a little—it’ll melt perfectly in the pan later.

Step 3: Cook the Beef to Crispy Perfection

Heat your oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef slices, laying them flat so they get a nice sear. Don’t stir immediately—let them crisp up for 2-3 minutes, which seals in flavor. Then stir and cook for another minute or so until just cooked through. Don’t worry if the meat looks a little pink—that’s perfectly normal because of the baking soda tenderizing.

Step 4: Sauté Broccoli and Garlic

Push the beef to the sides of the pan and add the broccoli to the center. If needed, drizzle a bit more oil so the broccoli doesn’t stick. Stir frequently for about two minutes until it’s bright and just tender. Then move the broccoli aside and add the minced garlic to the center. Sauté for about one minute until fragrant—this step adds a delicious depth of flavor you won’t want to miss.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer in Sauce

Lower the heat to medium-low, then pour in the sauce mixture. Stir everything together and allow it to cook until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and broccoli evenly—usually about 2-3 minutes. This is where all the flavors meld into that irresistible garlic glaze that makes this recipe so special.

Step 6: Finish with Green Onions and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds over the top for a fresh and nutty finish. Serve immediately over steamed white rice—jasmine rice is my favorite because its floral aroma complements the savory sauce perfectly.

How to Serve Beef with Garlic Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

I always finish this dish with a sprinkle of green onions and toasted sesame seeds because they add that perfect pop of color and subtle crunch. Sometimes, a little fresh cilantro works wonders too if you want something herbaceous.

Side Dishes

This Beef with Garlic Sauce Recipe pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice for soaking up all the sauce. If I’m feeling extra generous, I’ll add some simple fried rice or crunchy spring rolls on the side to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve this beef over a bed of fragrant rice noodles with a side of pickled veggies for contrast. Or try plating it on individual shallow bowls with finely chopped chili and a lime wedge for a bright finish that impresses guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, be sure to add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and keep the beef juicy—microwaving covered works perfectly for this.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well, although I recommend freezing before adding broccoli if possible, because the veggies can get a bit soft after thawing. When you reheat, add fresh steamed broccoli for the best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, I warm up the beef gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring often and adding a tiny splash of broth if the sauce thickens too much. This keeps the beef tender and sauce silky without drying out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I started making this Beef with Garlic Sauce Recipe years ago when I was hunting for a more authentic way to recreate my favorite Chinese takeout dish. What I love most is how simple ingredients and a few smart steps turn into a meal that tastes like you ordered in. I bet once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your home kitchen—easy, tasty, and impressive all at once. Give it a go and enjoy every garlicky bite!

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