Beef and Broccoli with Stew Meat

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When you want something hearty, satisfying, and packed with bold flavor, Beef and Broccoli with Stew Meat brings all of that to the table. This version of the classic takeout favorite swaps tender steak for slow-simmered stew meat, giving the dish an extra depth and richness that makes it perfect for colder nights or lazy Sunday dinners.

The savory sauce clings to every piece of beef, while the broccoli soaks up all those delicious flavors, keeping things bright and fresh. Whether you’re serving it over steamed rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice, this meal has comfort written all over it.

Why You’ll Love This Beef and Broccoli with Stew Meat

Unlike many quick stir-fry recipes, this one leans into slow cooking, giving the stew meat time to become meltingly tender. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on flavor, and the thickened sauce makes it taste like something you’d get from a good Chinese restaurant. Even better? It reheats beautifully, so leftovers are never a disappointment.

What Cut of Stew Meat Works Best?

Stew meat is typically cut from tougher parts like chuck or round. For this recipe, chuck is ideal because it breaks down beautifully during cooking, becoming juicy and soft. Avoid lean stew meat unless you’re pressure cooking or adding extra fat, as it can turn out dry.

Ingredients for the Beef and Broccoli with Stew Meat

This recipe is made with pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients that pack a punch. Together, they create a sauce that’s salty, slightly sweet, garlicky, and totally addictive.

  • Stew meat
  • Broccoli florets
  • Soy sauce
  • Brown sugar
  • Garlic
  • Ginger
  • Beef broth
  • Cornstarch
  • Sesame oil
  • Vegetable oil
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Green onions (for garnish)

These ingredients combine for a rich, glossy sauce that wraps around the beef and broccoli like a warm hug.

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How To Make the Beef and Broccoli with Stew Meat

Step 1: Sear the Stew Meat

Start by heating vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven. Brown the stew meat in batches so it gets nice and caramelized. This step builds flavor at the base.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

In the same pan, add garlic and ginger and sauté just until fragrant. Stir in soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, sesame oil, and a dash of red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a simmer.

Step 3: Simmer the Beef

Return the browned beef to the pot. Cover and reduce heat to low, allowing it to simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until fork-tender.

Step 4: Add Broccoli

In the final 10 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the pot. Let them steam on top with the lid on, or stir them in to soften them in the sauce.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Mix cornstarch with a bit of cold water to make a slurry, then stir it into the simmering sauce. Let it bubble until thickened and glossy.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with sliced green onions and serve hot over rice or noodles.

How to Serve and Store This Comfort Classic

This hearty meal feeds 4 to 5 people generously, making it ideal for family dinners. It’s perfect with fluffy jasmine rice, stir-fried noodles, or even cauliflower rice if you’re going low-carb. Leftovers store well in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge. The flavor deepens as it sits, making it great for meal prep. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What to Serve With Beef and Broccoli?

Steamed Jasmine Rice

The go-to base that soaks up every drop of that savory sauce.

Garlic Fried Rice

For an extra punch, pair it with garlicky fried rice to keep the flavor party going.

Egg Rolls

Crispy and golden, they make the perfect crunchy contrast.

Cucumber Salad

A cool, tangy side to balance the richness of the beef.

Sauteed Mushrooms

They add earthiness and blend beautifully with the umami notes.

Sesame Noodles

Another tasty base if you’re skipping the rice route.

Stir-Fried Snow Peas

Fresh, crisp, and lightly sweet, they complement the dish perfectly.

Want More Beef Dinner Ideas?

If you love this beef and broccoli with stew meat, you’ll definitely enjoy these other comforting dinners:

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Have you tried this with different vegetables like snap peas or bell peppers? Maybe you added a splash of hoisin? Let me know in the comments. I love hearing how you make this recipe your own.

Explore comforting, flavor-packed meals and healthy twists on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next go-to dinner!

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Beef and Broccoli with Stew Meat


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  • Author: Janet Reynolds
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 to 5 servings

Description

Beef and Broccoli with Stew Meat is a hearty, slow-simmered dinner recipe that transforms budget-friendly beef into a tender, flavorful dish with a glossy garlic soy sauce. Perfect for family meals, it pairs beautifully with rice or noodles.


Ingredients

1.5 lbs stew meat

3 cups broccoli florets

1/2 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup brown sugar

3 cloves garlic

1 tablespoon fresh ginger

1 cup beef broth

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 tablespoon sesame oil

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

2 stalks green onions (for garnish)

1/4 cup water (for slurry)


Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven. Brown the stew meat in batches until well seared.

2. Add garlic and ginger to the pan, sauté until fragrant. Stir in soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.

3. Return browned stew meat to the pot. Cover and simmer on low for 1.5 to 2 hours until meat is tender.

4. Add broccoli florets during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Cover to let them steam or stir to soften in sauce.

5. Mix cornstarch with water and stir slurry into sauce. Simmer until sauce is thick and glossy.

6. Garnish with green onions and serve over rice or noodles.

Notes

Use chuck stew meat for the best tenderness.

Add bell peppers or snap peas for more color and crunch.

Let leftovers sit overnight—the flavor gets even better.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 410
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 980mg
  • Fat: 19g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 37g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

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