If you're a fan of Panda Express and love their Beef and Broccoli, want a healthier, faster, flavor-filled, and more budget-friendly version, you'll love this! Tender strips of steak with fresh, crunchy broccoli, all tossed in a simple soy sauce and honey glaze. The garlic and ginger add a light kick, while sesame oil brings a warm, nutty flavor to the dish. Served over a bed of rice, topped with extra green onions and sesame seeds—it’s a straightforward, flavorful meal you can easily make at home in just half an hour. It's a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal perfect for weeknights when time is of the essence but taste can't be compromised. Let's dive in and recreate this beloved Chinese-American classic at home!
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How to Make a Panda Express Beef and Broccoli Copycat
Ingredients
- 2 Pounds Steak
- 1 Cup Rice
- 1 Bag Broccoli Florets 12 ounces
- ½ Cup Green Onions chopped
- ½ Cup Soy Sauce or Tamari
- 4 Cloves Garlic minced
- ¼ Cup Honey
- 3 Tablespoons Sesame Oil
- 1 Tablespoon Ginger freshly grated
- 1 Teaspoon Salt & Pepper
Check out the recipe video on Instagram!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium pot, add 1 cup of rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for about 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Slice the steak into thin strips, about ¼ inch thick, for quick and even cooking. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove the steak and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of sesame oil over low heat. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is bright green and just tender. You can add a splash of water if the broccoli needs a little steam to soften up without browning.
Add the cooked steak back into the skillet with the broccoli. Stir to combine and let the flavors mingle. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce or tamari, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
Pour the sauce mixture over the steak and broccoli in the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken and coat the steak and broccoli evenly.
Spoon the fluffy rice into bowls and top with generous portions of the broccoli beef. Sprinkle with green onions for an extra pop of flavor and color, and enjoy!
Why You'll Love This Panda Express Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those busy weeknights.
Healthier Alternative: By using fresh ingredients like lean steak and broccoli, and refined sugar free ingredients, you get a healthier version of the takeout favorite.
Budget-Friendly: Skip the takeout and save money by making this dish at home!
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute tamari or gluten-free soy sauce for soy sauce, and this recipe becomes gluten-free!
Tips for the Best Panda Express Beef and Broccoli
- Thin Slices for Tender Meat: The key to tender steak is slicing it against the grain into thin strips. This helps the meat cook quickly and remain soft.
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Aim for tender-crisp broccoli. Overcooking will cause it to lose its vibrant color and crisp texture.
- Customize the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the honey by half. You can also swap it for maple syrup for a slightly different flavor.
- Spice It Up: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce.
Beef and Broccoli Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking to switch things up, there are plenty of easy ingredient swaps for this recipe! Try using chicken or pork instead of beef, or go plant-based with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian twist. For extra veggies, throw in bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added color and crunch. You can also swap soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option or use coconut aminos for a lower-sodium, soy-free alternative. For a slightly different flavor, maple syrup or brown sugar can replace honey, bringing a touch of sweetness to the sauce. Enjoy experimenting!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this Panda Express Beef and Broccoli?
Yes, you can substitute the steak with chicken, pork, or even tofu for a different version. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure your protein is cooked through.
What’s the best cut of beef to use for Panda Express Beef and Broccoli?
Flank steak or sirloin works best for this recipe, as they are lean and tender when sliced thinly. You can also use other cuts like skirt steak or flat iron steak.
How do I store leftover Panda Express Beef and Broccoli?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Can I freeze Panda Express Beef and Broccoli? For how long?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Place it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat.
Is this Panda Express Beef and Broccoli recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.
Can I make this Panda Express Beef and Broccoli recipe low-sodium?
Absolutely! Feel free to reach out to our dedicated customer service team with your order number.
Enjoy Your Panda Express Beef and Broccoli at Home!
Craving takeout but don’t want someone unhealthy? This Panda Express Beef and Broccoli 30 minute recipe is your new go-to! Quick, easy, and packed with flavor, it’s the perfect way to bring a fan-favorite healthier alternative right to your kitchen. Give it a try, and you’ll be skipping the takeout for good! Have the sweetest day & tag me on Instagram when you make this recipe! @entirelyemmy
Panda Express Beef and Broccoli 30 Minute Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 Pounds Steak
- 1 Cup Rice
- 1 Bag Broccoli Florets 12 ounces
- ½ Cup Green Onions chopped
- ½ Cup Soy Sauce or Tamari
- 4 Cloves Garlic minced
- ¼ Cup Honey
- 3 Tablespoons Sesame Oil
- 1 Tablespoon Ginger freshly grated
- 1 Teaspoon Salt & Pepper
Instructions
- Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium pot, add 1 cup of rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for about 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of sesame oil over low heat. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is bright green and just tender. You can add a splash of water if the broccoli needs a little steam to soften up without browning.
- Slice the steak into thin strips, about ¼ inch thick, for quick and even cooking. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove the steak and set it aside.
- Add the cooked steak back into the skillet with the broccoli. Stir to combine and let the flavors mingle.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce or tamari, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the steak and broccoli in the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken and coat the steak and broccoli evenly.
- Spoon the fluffy rice into bowls and top with generous portions of the broccoli beef. Sprinkle with green onions for an extra pop of flavor and color, and enjoy!
Nutrition
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I'll email this recipe to you, so you can come back to it later!
Rhiana says
Really enjoyed this recipe and how easy it was to make. I had all of the ingredients in my pantry—always a plus!