Beef And Broccoli Rice Noodles
Highlighted under: Fast & Flavorful
I love making Beef And Broccoli Rice Noodles for dinner because it's a quick, flavorful dish that satisfies my cravings for Asian cuisine. The combination of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and chewy rice noodles creates a wonderful texture and taste experience. Plus, it's a one-pan meal, which means fewer dishes to clean up afterward! In just under 30 minutes, I can have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal on the table that my whole family enjoys, making it a staple in my kitchen.
When I first tried making beef and broccoli rice noodles, I wanted something quick yet authentic. I discovered that marinating the beef beforehand transforms it into a tender, flavorful treat. My secret? Including some oyster sauce adds a depth of umami that really elevates the dish.
One of my favorite parts is watching the colors brighten as everything cooks. I often add a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top for an extra crunch. This dish not only tastes amazing but also looks fantastic on the table, making it perfect for gatherings!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Savory and rich flavors in every bite
- Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
- Healthy veggies packed into a delicious dish
Understanding the Ingredients
The key to perfect Beef And Broccoli Rice Noodles lies in the quality of the beef. Choosing a tender cut like flank steak or sirloin works wonders, as they are flavorful and become melt-in-your-mouth tender when cooked properly. Slice the beef thinly against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness. A sharp knife is essential here; it not only makes slicing easier but also helps in creating those delicate pieces that absorb the marinades effectively.
Broccoli florets not only add vibrant color to the dish but they also enhance the nutritional profile. Opt for fresh broccoli, choosing tight, dark green florets. If you're short on time or in need of a shortcut, frozen broccoli can be a convenient substitute; just remember to blanch it briefly in hot water to retain its bright color before adding it to the pan.
Mastering the Cooking Technique
Stir-frying is all about high heat and quick cooking, making your choice of pan crucial. A well-seasoned wok is ideal as it helps to create that signature smoky flavor; however, a large skillet can work just as well. Ensure that the pan is preheated before adding the oil, which should shimmer but not smoke, to successfully seal in the flavors of the beef. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of frying, so cook in batches if necessary to achieve a nice sear.
When adding the garlic and onion, keep an eye on them to prevent burning; cook them until the onion turns translucent and the garlic releases its fragrance, which typically takes about 1 minute. The goal is to infuse the oil with their flavors before introducing the broccoli. If the broccoli begins to soften too much or turns dull in color, you may have overcooked it—aim for that vibrant green and slight crunch to enhance the dish's texture.
Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smoother.
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 1 lb beef (sliced thinly against the grain)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 onion (sliced)
- 4 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have everything prepared and ready to go before heating your pan. This will ensure your noodles don’t overcook!
Instructions
Follow these steps for a perfect dish every time.
Prepare the Rice Noodles
Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Marinate the Beef
In a bowl, combine sliced beef, soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.
Cook the Beef
In a large pan or wok, heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the Vegetables
Add minced garlic, sliced onion, and broccoli florets to the pan. Stir-fry until the broccoli is bright green and tender, about 3-5 minutes.
Combine Noodles
Add the cooked rice noodles to the pan. Toss everything together, adding more soy sauce if needed. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until well combined.
Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, you can include sliced bell peppers or snap peas. Keep a close eye on the noodles to avoid overcooking them, as they can become too soft.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This dish can be prepared in advance, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. Cook the beef, veggies, and noodles separately, then combine them just before serving. Keep everything in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to eat, gently reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of soy sauce to revive the flavors, if needed.
If you want to freeze portions, make sure to separate the noodles, beef, and vegetables into portions before sealing them in freezer-safe bags. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then stir-fry briefly with a dash of oil to bring everything back to life—this helps to maintain the texture of the noodles and the crunch of the broccoli.
Flavor Variations and Serving Suggestions
Feel free to customize this dish based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences. Add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and crunch. For a spicier kick, include some sliced red chili or a drizzle of sriracha. You can also swap out the rice noodles for a gluten-free alternative, such as quinoa or zucchini noodles, for a lighter option.
For serving, I recommend garnishing with sesame seeds and chopped scallions to add both texture and flavor. A side of steamed edamame or a light cucumber salad can complement the meal well. If you're feeling indulgent, serve with a small bowl of chili oil for drizzling.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use another type of noodle?
Yes, you can substitute with lo mein or udon noodles if you prefer.
→ Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and rice noodles.
→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the beef beforehand and store it in the fridge until ready to cook.
→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute the beef with tofu and use vegetable broth for flavor.
Beef And Broccoli Rice Noodles
I love making Beef And Broccoli Rice Noodles for dinner because it's a quick, flavorful dish that satisfies my cravings for Asian cuisine. The combination of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and chewy rice noodles creates a wonderful texture and taste experience. Plus, it's a one-pan meal, which means fewer dishes to clean up afterward! In just under 30 minutes, I can have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal on the table that my whole family enjoys, making it a staple in my kitchen.
Created by: Lillian Hayes
Recipe Type: Fast & Flavorful
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 1 lb beef (sliced thinly against the grain)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 onion (sliced)
- 4 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
In a bowl, combine sliced beef, soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.
In a large pan or wok, heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
Add minced garlic, sliced onion, and broccoli florets to the pan. Stir-fry until the broccoli is bright green and tender, about 3-5 minutes.
Add the cooked rice noodles to the pan. Toss everything together, adding more soy sauce if needed. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until well combined.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, you can include sliced bell peppers or snap peas. Keep a close eye on the noodles to avoid overcooking them, as they can become too soft.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g