Easy Beef Stir Fry

Why you’ll love it

This steak stir fry is another wonderful option to add to your rotation of Asian-inspired recipes to make at home. I like to change up my sauces, so in this one we’re going with a soy sauce based one with fresh ginger, honey, and a hint of apple cider vinegar.

What makes this the best beef stir fry is that it’s got protein and veggies, is healthier and cheaper than takeout, and is ready in just 30 minutes. Does a simple family weeknight meal get any better? Thinly sliced ribbons of flank steak and tender-crisp veggies and plenty of sauce… yum!

What you’ll need

For the stir fry

• Olive oil – for sautéing
• Flank steak – it’s a fantastic middle ground between cost and taste, and it’s very tender when cooked right
• Onion – sweet (Vidalia) onions are my preference here
• Veggies – I chose broccoli and red bell pepper

For the sauce

• Soy sauce and water – we’re going with low sodium
• Honey and apple cider vinegar – for a sweet touch and a little acidity
• Ginger and garlic – zesty, savory components
• Red pepper flakes – just enough for a gentle warmth, not making it spicy
• Cornstarch – to thicken up the sauce

How to make beef stir fry

This is an overview with step-by-step photos. Full ingredients & instructions are in the recipe card below.

Prep all your ingredients. Slice the steak into thin strips. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the stir fry sauce ingredients. Add half the oil to a skillet, and get it sizzling hot. Fry the veggies, tossing often, to desired tenderness. Set aside.

Add the rest of the oil to the skillet, and arrange the beef fairly spread out. Leave it for a minute to cook, then toss and cook for a short while longer. A little rare is ok. Return the veggies to the skillet, and toss with the sauce. Heat until thickened. Serve right away with rice or noodles.

Substitutions and variations

• You can sub flank steak for sirloin or tenderloin if you like.
• If you want to use frozen broccoli, thaw it first, and you will likely need to cook it for less time as it’s already partially cooked.
• Prefer a sweeter sauce? Add another tablespoon or so of honey.
• This recipe isn’t particularly spicy as written, so feel free to increase the crushed red pepper flakes or leave them out altogether if you want it mild.
• You can definitely change up the veggies, just be sure they’re cut into similar size pieces so they cook at a similar rate (e.g. if adding carrots, slice them very thin or use matchstick cut carrots).