If you’re craving a flavorful, satisfying meal that brings together the hearty richness of beef with the fresh crunch of broccoli, look no further than this Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry Recipe. It’s an exciting twist on classic stir fry, adding slurp-worthy ramen noodles to soak up every bit of the savory sauce. This dish manages to be both comforting and vibrant, delivering a wonderful balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors that will have you coming back for seconds. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to become one of your go-to favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry Recipe calls for a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that each play a unique role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the tender strips of sirloin to the fresh broccoli florets and the perfectly seasoned noodles, every component works in harmony to create a deliciously balanced dish.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: Provides the savory umami base without overpowering saltiness.
- Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce to cling beautifully to the noodles and beef.
- Beef broth: Adds depth and richness to the sauce for a robust flavor.
- Honey: Introduces a touch of natural sweetness that balances the savory notes.
- Hoisin sauce: Brings a sweet and tangy dimension, enhancing complexity.
- Rice vinegar: Adds a subtle acidity that brightens the entire dish.
- Sesame oil: Infuses a nutty aroma that elevates every bite.
- Garlic, minced: Gives a punch of savory flavor that’s unmistakable in good stir fry.
- Grated ginger: Offers a fresh, zesty warmth that complements the beef perfectly.
- Cracked red pepper flakes: Adds gentle heat to awaken the palate.
- Ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets): The star carbohydrate that soaks up the sauce and adds chewy texture.
- Extra-virgin olive oil: For searing the steak to perfection.
- Sirloin steak, sliced: Tender and lean, it’s the protein powerhouse of the dish.
- Kosher salt and ground black pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance the natural flavors.
- Fresh broccoli florets: Adds vibrant color, crunch, and wholesome goodness.
- Water: For steaming the broccoli gently.
- Sesame seeds: Perfect for garnish, adding a subtle crunch and visual appeal.
How to Make Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Sauce
Start by whisking together the soy sauce and cornstarch in a medium bowl until smooth. This is the foundation for your stir fry sauce and the cornstarch will thicken it nicely. Then stir in the beef broth, honey, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and cracked red pepper flakes. Set this flavorful mixture aside while you prepare the other components.
Step 2: Cook the Ramen
Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the ramen noodles for just 2 to 3 minutes, until tender but still springy. Drain the noodles and rinse them briefly under cold water to stop the cooking. Toss the noodles with a teaspoon of sesame oil to keep them from sticking together and to add that irresistible nutty aroma.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
Season your sirloin steak strips generously with kosher salt and black pepper. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the beef. Sear the steak strips until they develop a rich brown crust, about 2-3 minutes per side, then remove them from the skillet and set aside. This step locks in flavor and keeps the beef juicy.
Step 4: Steam the Broccoli
Into the same skillet, add two tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil and pour in half a cup of water. Toss in the broccoli florets and cover the pan, letting the broccoli steam until tender but still crisp, about 3-4 minutes. This gentle steaming keeps the broccoli vibrant green and perfectly textured.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the seared steak to the skillet with the steamed broccoli and cooked ramen noodles. Pour the prepared sauce over all the ingredients, stirring gently to coat everything evenly. Allow the stir fry to cook for 2 to 3 minutes more, so the sauce thickens and clings beautifully to the noodles, beef, and broccoli, creating that crave-worthy glossy finish.
How to Serve Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
To take this dish to the next level, sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds right before serving. They add a delightful crunch and a subtle toasty flavor. Feel free to add thinly sliced green onions or a drizzle of extra sesame oil for an extra pop of freshness and aroma.
Side Dishes
This Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry Recipe is a complete meal in itself, but if you want to round it out, consider serving it alongside simple cucumber salad or steamed edamame. These sides add a refreshing contrast and keep things light and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your stir fry in a large bowl topped with a soft-boiled egg or some crushed peanuts for extra texture. Another idea is to toss in some sautéed mushrooms or shredded carrots for added variety and nutrition. Presentation is all about making this comforting dish your own.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it to room temperature before refrigerating to keep the texture of the noodles intact.
Freezing
While this stir fry is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Note that the texture of the ramen noodles may change slightly upon thawing, so it’s ideal to freeze just the sauce, beef, and broccoli separately if possible.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent sticking. Avoid microwaving directly without moisture, as the noodles can become tough and dry. Stir often until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin is tender and cooks quickly, flank steak or ribeye strips also work well. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid overcooking.
Is it necessary to discard the ramen seasoning packets?
Yes, it’s best to discard them because they usually contain a lot of salt and preservatives that can overwhelm the dish’s balanced flavors. The homemade sauce provides all the seasoning you need.
Can I use a gluten-free alternative for soy sauce?
Definitely! Tamari or coconut aminos are great gluten-free substitutions that will still give you that authentic savory taste without gluten.
What can I do to make the dish spicier?
Increase the amount of cracked red pepper flakes or add a dash of chili garlic sauce to the sauce mixture. You can also sprinkle sliced fresh chilies on top when serving for an extra kick.
How can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Swap the beef for firm tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Also, make sure your hoisin sauce is vegan-friendly. This way, you keep the hearty texture and amazing flavors without animal products.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly satisfying about the fusion of tender beef, fresh broccoli, and chewy ramen noodles all smothered in a rich, flavorful sauce. This Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry Recipe is more than just dinner; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a regular in your kitchen — once you do, this dish is bound to become a beloved staple for your family and friends.
Print
Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Description
This Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry is a flavorful and quick weeknight meal combining tender sirloin steak, fresh broccoli florets, and perfectly cooked ramen noodles, all tossed in a savory, slightly sweet soy-based sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, it features garlic, ginger, and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes, making it a delicious Asian-inspired dish perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/3 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1/8 teaspoon cracked red pepper flakes
Noodles and Cooking Ingredients
- 2 (3 ounce) packages ramen noodles, seasoning packets discarded
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound sirloin steak, trimmed of fat and sliced into 1 1/2-inch strips (about 1/4-inch thickness)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup water
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- Make the sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and cornstarch until smooth. Then add the beef broth, honey, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and cracked red pepper flakes. Mix well and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook the ramen noodles: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the ramen noodles and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until tender but still firm. Drain the noodles, rinse under cold water to stop cooking, then toss them with 1 teaspoon of sesame oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Sear the steak: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the sirloin strips with kosher salt and ground black pepper. Add the steak strips to the skillet and cook until browned and just cooked through, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the broccoli: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and pour in 1/2 cup of water. Add the broccoli florets, cover the skillet, and steam the broccoli until tender yet crisp, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the lid and cook off any remaining water if necessary.
- Combine ingredients: Return the cooked steak to the skillet with the steamed broccoli and the cooked ramen noodles. Stir gently to combine all components evenly.
- Add the sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the contents of the skillet. Cook while stirring frequently for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens, coats the beef, broccoli, and noodles evenly, and everything is heated through.
- Serve: Transfer the stir fry to serving plates or a large dish. Sprinkle with sesame seeds as a garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry!
Notes
- Discard the seasoning packets from the ramen noodles as the sauce provides all the flavor needed.
- Thinly slicing the steak helps it cook quickly and evenly while maintaining tenderness.
- To prevent overcooking the broccoli, steam just until tender-crisp for best texture.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the cracked red pepper flakes slightly.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce and use gluten-free ramen noodles.
- This recipe can easily be doubled for larger groups or meal prepping.
