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Panda Express Beef and Broccoli

Panda Express Beef and Broccoli

This Panda Express Beef and Broccoli copycat recipe combines tender sliced beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory, lightly sweet ginger-soy sauce for an easy homemade dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marinating Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Chinese
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Beef and Broccoli
  • 1 pound flank steak thinly sliced against the grain
  • 1 pound broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons neutral cooking oil
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger minced
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water or Shaoxing cooking wine
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • ¼ teaspoon sesame oil

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk or fork
  • Measuring spoons
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Food thermometer (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prepare the beef: Slice the flank steak thinly against the grain. Toss it with 1 teaspoon cornstarch and 2 tablespoons water or cooking wine. Let it rest for 15 minutes.
  2. Prepare the broccoli: Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Briefly steam or microwave until bright green and slightly tender, then drain well.
  3. Mix the sauce: Whisk together the oyster sauce, soy sauce, water, brown sugar, cornstarch, and sesame oil in a small bowl until smooth.
  4. Sear the beef: Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high to high heat. Cook the beef in batches until browned and nearly cooked through. Transfer to a clean plate.
  5. Cook the aromatics: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Stir for 20–30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn them.
  6. Combine the ingredients: Return the beef to the skillet and add the broccoli. Stir the sauce again, pour it into the pan, and toss everything together.
  7. Thicken the sauce: Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and broccoli. Add a splash of water if needed and ensure the beef is cooked through.
  8. Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and serve hot with steamed white rice or brown rice.

Notes

  • Slice the beef against the grain for a more tender texture.
  • Cook the beef in batches to encourage browning.
  • Adjust the brown sugar to make the sauce less sweet.
  • Refrigerate leftovers promptly in an airtight container and use within 3–4 days.