If you are craving a dish that marries the tender, flavorful bite of beef with the crisp freshness of broccoli and the slurp-worthy comfort of ramen noodles, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on two beloved classics—ramen and stir fry—that’s quick enough for weeknights but special enough to impress anyone at your table. The magic lies in the perfectly balanced, savory sauce that glazes every component, making each mouthful an irresistible delight. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it might just become your go-to for a delicious, no-fuss dinner that packs a punch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this dish is a breeze because each one plays a key role in creating that balance of flavors and textures you’ll adore. Everything here is straightforward and familiar, but together they create something so much greater than the sum of their parts.
- 6 oz instant Ramen noodles: Use two 3 oz packages and discard the seasoning to make room for the homemade sauce flavors.
- 1 lb broccoli (cut into 6 cups florets): Provides that satisfying crunch and vibrant green color essential to the dish.
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (divided): The base for your stir fry, helping to cook ingredients evenly and lock in flavor.
- 1 lb flank steak or top sirloin (thinly sliced): This tender cut cooks quickly and takes on the sauce beautifully.
- 2 tsp sesame seeds (optional garnish): Adds toasted nuttiness and a slight crunch on top.
- 2 Tbsp chives (optional garnish): Offers fresh, oniony notes to brighten up the dish.
- 1 tsp fresh ginger (peeled and grated): Delivers a warm, spicy aroma that complements the soy sauce perfectly.
- 3 cloves garlic (grated, about 2 tsp): A classic flavor enhancer that deepens the savory profile.
- 6 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce: The cornerstone of the sauce; savory with just the right saltiness.
- 1/2 cup warm water: Helps dissolve the sugar and meld the sauce ingredients.
- 3 Tbsp light brown sugar (packed): Balances the saltiness with a touch of caramel sweetness.
- 1 1/2 Tbsp corn starch: Thickens the sauce to a glossy finish that clings to every noodle and veggie.
- 2 Tbsp sesame oil: Infuses the dish with that unmistakable toasty essence that’s pure Asian-inspired goodness.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle heat that wakes up the palate.
How to Make Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ramen Noodles
Start by boiling a medium saucepan of water and cook the ramen noodles for about three minutes. Break them up gently with a spatula to separate the strands and avoid clumps. Once cooked, drain and rinse immediately with cold water. Setting the noodles aside like this keeps them from sticking and lets you focus on the stir fry without any worries.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
While the noodles cook, mix the sauce ingredients in a large measuring cup or bowl. This includes soy sauce, warm water, brown sugar, corn starch, sesame oil, grated ginger, grated garlic, and black pepper. Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely. This sauce is the flavor powerhouse of your Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry Recipe, so take a moment to enjoy that delicious aroma!
Step 3: Sauté the Broccoli
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large heavy skillet over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets and 2 tablespoons of water, then cover with a lid. This method steams the broccoli just enough to remain crisp tender, which hit the perfect texture contrast with the beef and noodles later. Stir occasionally and cook for approximately 4 minutes, then transfer the broccoli to a separate dish to rest.
Step 4: Cook the Beef
Turn up the heat to medium high and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Lay the thinly sliced flank steak in a single layer and sear it for about 2 minutes per side until it’s just cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan and cook in batches if needed. After searing, reduce the heat to medium low to prepare for blending with the sauce.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Give your prepared sauce one last stir—sometimes it separates a bit while waiting—and pour it into the skillet with the beef. Let it simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally as the sauce thickens beautifully. Next, return the crisp broccoli and cooked ramen noodles to the pan, tossing everything together so the sauce uniformly coats the noodles and veggies. If the sauce feels too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water to get the ideal consistency. Your Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry Recipe is now ready for garnishing and serving.
How to Serve Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top to introduce a nutty, crunchy contrast that adds dimension to every bite. Fresh chives scattered on serve not only as a gorgeous pop of green but also lend a mild onion flavor that lifts the whole dish. These simple touches take your bowl from delicious to restaurant-quality.
Side Dishes
This stir fry stands beautifully on its own thanks to the hearty beef, vibrant broccoli, and noodles, but pairing it with light sides can round out the meal elegantly. Consider a refreshing cucumber salad or a miso soup to complement the savory notes without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, you can serve the stir fry in individual noodle bowls topped with extra chives and a drizzle of chili oil for heat lovers. Or pack it into lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative that adds crunch and freshness. No matter how you present it, this Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry Recipe never fails to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover stir fry in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The noodles may absorb some sauce, so give the dish a gentle stir when reheating to redistribute flavors evenly.
Freezing
While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this dish by packing cooled portions into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months, but expect the broccoli to soften slightly upon thawing. To retain the best texture, consider freezing the sauce separately when possible.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Stir gently until warmed through, being careful not to overcook the beef to maintain its tenderness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Absolutely! While the recipe highlights instant ramen noodles for their quick cooking and texture, you can substitute with other thin noodles like udon, soba, or even rice noodles depending on your preference.
Is flank steak the only beef cut recommended?
Flank steak is ideal for its tenderness and quick cooking, but you can also use top sirloin, skirt steak, or any thinly sliced beef. Just adjust cooking times if needed to avoid overcooking.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the beef for tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth or water instead of soy sauce blends with fish ingredients. The sauce and broccoli still shine beautifully on their own.
What if I don’t have sesame oil?
Sesame oil adds a distinct nutty aroma, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can omit it or substitute with toasted peanut oil or a mild olive oil. The flavor profile will shift a bit but remain delicious.
How spicy is this dish?
This Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry Recipe is naturally mild with no added chili heat unless you choose to garnish with chili oil or flakes. It’s perfect for a wide range of palates!
Final Thoughts
There is something truly satisfying about a dish that comes together easily yet tastes like you spent hours perfecting it. This Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry Recipe hits that sweet spot every single time, offering a comforting, flavorsome meal that feels like a warm hug after a busy day. I encourage you to give it a try soon—you might just find yourself making it a new favorite to share with your loved ones again and again.
Print
Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-American
Description
This Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner featuring tender flank steak, crisp broccoli florets, and chewy ramen noodles tossed in a savory, slightly sweet soy-ginger sauce. The dish is garnished with sesame seeds and fresh chives for added texture and aroma, making it a satisfying and delicious meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Noodles
- 6 oz instant Ramen noodles (two 3 oz packages), seasoning discarded
Vegetables
- 1 lb broccoli (cut into 6 cups florets)
Meat
- 1 lb flank steak (or top sirloin, thinly sliced)
Sauce and Garnish
- 2 tsp sesame seeds (optional garnish)
- 2 Tbsp chives (optional garnish)
- 1 tsp fresh ginger (peeled and grated)
- 3 cloves garlic (grated, about 2 tsp)
- 6 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 3 Tbsp light brown sugar (packed)
- 1 1/2 Tbsp corn starch
- 2 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Oils and Others
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (divided)
Instructions
- Cook the Ramen Noodles: Fill a medium saucepan with water and bring it to a boil. Add the ramen noodles and cook for 3 minutes, breaking them up with a spatula as they soften. Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside for later use.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large measuring cup or bowl, combine the grated ginger, grated garlic, low sodium soy sauce, warm water, light brown sugar, corn starch, sesame oil, and black pepper. Stir well until the sugar dissolves and the corn starch is fully incorporated.
- Sauté the Broccoli: Heat a large heavy skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil along with 6 cups of broccoli florets and 2 tablespoons of water. Cover the skillet with a lid and sauté the broccoli for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes crisp-tender. Once done, transfer the broccoli to a separate dish to keep warm.
- Cook the Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Spread the thinly sliced beef in a single layer and sauté for 2 minutes on each side or until just cooked through. Reduce the heat to medium-low to prepare for the sauce.
- Simmer the Sauce and Combine: Re-stir the sauce mixture in case it has separated, then pour it into the skillet with the beef. Let it simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens. Return the cooked broccoli to the pan, add the cooked ramen noodles, and stir or toss everything together to evenly coat the noodles and vegetables with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water to thin it to your desired consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Plate the stir fry and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped chives, if using. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos and use gluten-free ramen noodles.
- Do not overcook the broccoli; keep it crisp-tender for the best texture contrast.
- Slicing the beef thinly against the grain will ensure tender, easy-to-chew meat.
- If you prefer more heat, add a pinch of red chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil to the sauce.
- The sauce can be adjusted to taste by increasing or decreasing the brown sugar for sweetness or soy sauce for saltiness.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
