Name: Garlic Beef and Broccoli Noodles
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces wide rice noodles; 3 cups broccoli florets; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 8 ounces sliced flank steak (sliced against the grain); 3 teaspoons minced garlic ((about 3 cloves)); 8 ounces sliced mushrooms; ½ cup packed brown sugar; ½ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; ½ teaspoon ground ginger; ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; ½ teaspoon pepper; 1 tablespoon cornstarch

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with flavor and comes together in a flash, look no further than these Garlic Beef and Broccoli Noodles. This delightful recipe combines tender flank steak, vibrant broccoli, and earthy mushrooms, all tossed together with wide rice noodles in a savory garlic sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this dish is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Beef and Broccoli Noodles is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors. The wide rice noodles are the perfect canvas for the tender beef and crunchy broccoli, while the garlic sauce brings everything together. Here are a few reasons to fall in love with this recipe:

– **Quick and Easy**: This dish can be on your table in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
– **Flavor-Packed**: With a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy elements, each bite is bursting with flavor.
– **Versatile**: Feel free to customize the veggies or protein based on what you have on hand.
– **One-Pan Wonder**: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal!

What You’ll Gather

8 ounces wide rice noodles
3 cups broccoli florets
1 tablespoon olive oil
8 ounces sliced flank steak, sliced against the grain
3 teaspoons minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
8 ounces sliced mushrooms
½ cup packed brown sugar
½ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
2 teaspoons sesame oil
½ teaspoon ground ginger
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
½ teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon cornstarch

Equipment at a Glance

Large Pot – For cooking the rice noodles.
Wok or Large Skillet – Ideal for stir-frying the ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons – For precise ingredient measurements.
Cooking Spoon – To help stir and combine all the ingredients.

Stepwise Method: Garlic Beef and Broccoli Noodles

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add the wide rice noodles and cook according to package instructions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Step 2: Blanch the Broccoli

In the same pot of boiling water, briefly blanch the broccoli florets for about 2 minutes until they are vibrant green and tender-crisp. Drain and set aside with the noodles.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

In a wok or large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced flank steak and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the mushrooms have softened and the garlic is fragrant.

Step 5: Combine and Season

Return the beef to the skillet with the mushrooms. Add the blanched broccoli, cooked rice noodles, brown sugar, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, ground ginger, crushed red pepper flakes, and pepper. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Pour this into the skillet and stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the noodles and vegetables.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and serve your Garlic Beef and Broccoli Noodles immediately, garnished with additional crushed red pepper flakes if desired.

No-Store Runs Needed

Rice noodles can be found in most grocery stores or Asian markets.
Broccoli and mushrooms are commonly available in the produce section.
Staples like soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and brown sugar are likely already in your pantry.
Flank steak can be substituted with chicken or tofu if you prefer a different protein.

Troubles You Can Avoid

To ensure your Garlic Beef and Broccoli Noodles turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

Slice the flank steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Don’t overcook the broccoli; it should remain crisp.
Be careful not to burn the garlic; it can turn bitter quickly.
Adjust the level of crushed red pepper to suit your heat preference.

Save It for Later

If you find yourself with leftovers, you’re in for a treat! Garlic Beef and Broccoli Noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to keep the noodles moist and flavorful.

Reader Q&A

Can I use a different type of noodle for this recipe?

Absolutely! While wide rice noodles create a lovely texture, you can substitute them with any noodle of your choice, such as egg noodles or even whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option.

Is there a vegetarian alternative to the beef?

Yes! You can easily swap out the flank steak for tofu, tempeh, or even seitan for a hearty vegetarian or vegan option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the protein you choose.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you’re looking for more heat, consider adding extra crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha or chili paste to the sauce. You can also top the finished dish with sliced fresh chilies for an added kick.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep some components ahead of time. Chop the vegetables and slice the beef, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. The sauce can also be made in advance and stored separately.

Wrap-Up

Garlic Beef and Broccoli Noodles is a deliciously satisfying dish that brings together tender beef, fresh vegetables, and flavorful noodles in a way that’s quick and easy. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it’s perfect for a family dinner or a meal prep option for the week. The balance of savory and sweet, combined with a hint of spice, makes this dish one you’ll want to return to time and time again.

Whether you are a busy parent, a student, or simply someone who loves good food, this recipe is a must-try. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to whip up a delightful meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and most importantly, share this amazing dish with your loved ones!