The Story Behind This Irresistible Dish

There’s something truly special about recreating a restaurant favorite in your own kitchen. For me, Mongolian Beef was always that dish. I vividly remember the first time I tried it at a local Asian restaurant—the rich, slightly sweet, and savory sauce coating tender slices of beef, perfectly complemented by the crisp bite of fresh broccoli. It was love at first bite.

But as much as I loved indulging in this dish at my favorite takeout spot, I wanted to make it at home with fresher ingredients, better quality meat, and a personal touch. That’s how this Savory Mongolian Beef & Broccoli recipe was born—a simple yet flavor-packed meal that delivers all the satisfaction of takeout but with healthier, homemade goodness.

Now, it has become a staple in my home. Whether I’m cooking for family, impressing guests, or just craving that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness, this dish never disappoints. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make!

Why This Mongolian Beef & Broccoli is a Must-Try

If you’re a fan of quick, flavorful meals, this recipe is one you’ll come back to over and over again. Here’s why:

• Restaurant-Quality at Home – Enjoy the bold flavors of takeout without the extra sodium, preservatives, or mystery ingredients.
• Tender, Juicy Beef – Using flank steak ensures every bite is melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
• Perfectly Balanced Sauce – The sweet, salty, and umami-rich sauce clings beautifully to the beef and broccoli.
• Fast & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable & Healthier – Use leaner cuts of beef, adjust the sweetness, or add extra veggies to suit your preferences.

Ingredients:

• For the Beef:
  • 1 to 1.25 pounds flank steak, sliced into thin strips (no more than ¼-inch thick)
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil, divided
• For the Sauce:
  • 4 cloves garlic, pressed or finely minced
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons ginger (fresh or dried)
  • ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • ½ cup water
  • ¾ cup dark brown sugar, packed (light brown sugar may be substituted)
• For the Vegetables & Garnish:
  • 4 to 6 cups broccoli florets (adjust based on preference)
  • 2 to 3 green onions, sliced into ¼-inch long segments
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
  • Sesame seeds (optional, for garnishing)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Beef:
   • Coat sliced flank steak in cornstarch, ensuring an even coating. Set aside for 10 minutes to allow the cornstarch to absorb moisture.
2. Cook the Beef:
   • Heat 1½ tablespoons olive oil and 1 tablespoon sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Sear the beef in batches until crispy and browned, then transfer to a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
   • In the same pan, add the remaining oils along with garlic and ginger. Sauté until fragrant.
   • Stir in soy sauce, water, and brown sugar. Simmer until slightly thickened.
4. Add the Broccoli & Beef:
   • Stir in broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp.
   • Return the cooked beef to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
5. Garnish & Serve:
   • Stir in green onions and red pepper flakes if using.
   • Serve over rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving – Approx. 1 Cup):

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 20g

This Savory Mongolian Beef & Broccoli is the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory, making it a fantastic homemade alternative to your favorite takeout!

Secrets to Making the Best Mongolian Beef & Broccoli

1. Choosing the Right Cut of Beef

Flank steak is ideal for Mongolian Beef because it’s lean yet flavorful, and when sliced thinly, it becomes wonderfully tender. If you prefer an even softer texture, sirloin or ribeye are great alternatives.

2. Cornstarch is the Key to a Crispy, Tender Bite

Tossing the beef in cornstarch before cooking serves two purposes:

• It creates a light, crisp texture when seared in oil.
• It helps thicken the sauce as it cooks, ensuring every bite is perfectly coated.

3. Balance the Sweet & Savory Elements

Mongolian Beef is known for its slightly sweet sauce, but balance is key. Using dark brown sugar deepens the caramelized flavor, while low-sodium soy sauce prevents the dish from being overly salty.

4. High Heat is Essential

To achieve that signature restaurant-style sear, cook the beef in a hot pan with a mix of sesame and olive oil. This locks in flavor and prevents the beef from becoming soggy.

5. Don’t Overcook the Broccoli

The broccoli should be tender-crisp rather than mushy. Adding it at the right time ensures it stays vibrant, fresh, and full of nutrients.

Creative Ways to Serve Mongolian Beef & Broccoli

1. Over Steamed Rice

The classic way to enjoy this dish! Jasmine or brown rice soaks up the delicious sauce perfectly.

2. With Noodles

Serve over stir-fried lo mein, rice noodles, or even zucchini noodles for a fun twist.

3. In Lettuce Wraps

For a low-carb option, serve the beef and broccoli in crisp lettuce cups, topped with sesame seeds and green onions.

4. As a Stir-Fry Bowl

Pair with other stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and carrots for a veggie-packed meal.

5. Meal Prep Option

This dish stores well, making it perfect for meal prepping. Divide into containers with rice and enjoy throughout the week!

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

This Savory Mongolian Beef & Broccoli tastes just as amazing the next day! Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigeration:

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

For longer storage, freeze the beef and sauce in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent overheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?

Yes! While flank steak is traditional, you can also use sirloin, skirt steak, or ribeye for a more tender bite.

2. Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?

Absolutely! Just swap regular soy sauce for gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos.

3. Is Mongolian Beef Spicy?

No, this dish is typically mild, but you can add red pepper flakes, Sriracha, or chili paste for extra heat.

4. What If I Don’t Have Sesame Oil?

Sesame oil adds a nutty depth, but if you don’t have it, you can use extra olive oil and sprinkle in toasted sesame seeds for a similar effect.

5. Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the beef with extra-firm tofu or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

6. Can I Cook This in a Slow Cooker?

Yes! To make slow cooker Mongolian beef, add all ingredients (except the broccoli) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours. Stir in steamed broccoli before serving.

Conclusion: A Dish That Brings Everyone to the Table

Mongolian Beef & Broccoli is more than just a meal—it’s a culinary experience that combines rich flavors, simple ingredients, and effortless cooking. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner, meal prepping for the week, or impressing guests, this dish delivers every time.

The tender beef, caramelized sauce, and crisp broccoli come together in perfect harmony, creating a takeout favorite made even better at home. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adjust based on your preferences, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

So next time you’re craving something bold, savory, and satisfying, skip the takeout and try making this Savory Mongolian Beef & Broccoli in your own kitchen. You won’t regret it!