Air Fryer Beef and Broccoli

This Air Fryer Beef and Broccoli Recipe is amazing cooked right in your own Air Fryer; you get the taste of roasted beef and a great and tasty air-fried broccoli, mixed for this classic Chinese Take Out dish.

This is a great and healthy dinner that you can prepare right in your air fryer; this dish’s sauce really makes this a flavorful dish, with all of the Asian flavors that you love about a Chinese Takeout Dish of Beef and Broccoli.

In less than the time for the delivery person to come to your house, you can replicate this dish. Serve it on a bed of Instant Pot Jasmine Rice for a complete meal.

As most of you know, I love a great Chinese Feast, and some of my favorite Air Fryer Chinese Inspired Recipes are: AIR FRYER CHINESE SPARE RIBS, INSTANT POT VEGETARIAN CHINESE FRIED RICE, AIR FRYER CHINESE DONUTS, and AIR FRYER, CHINESE SESAME CHICKEN.

Easy Beef and Broccoli in the Air Fryer

Creating an Easy Beef and Broccoli dish in the air fryer transforms this classic Chinese takeout favorite into a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that can be enjoyed any night of the week. Utilizing the air fryer not only reduces the amount of oil needed, making it a healthier option, but also ensures that the beef gets a wonderful crispy texture while keeping the broccoli tender and vibrant. This dish combines thin slices of marinated beef with fresh broccoli florets, all tossed in a savory and slightly sweet sauce that caramelizes beautifully in the hot air circulation, enhancing the flavors and textures of the ingredients.

The process begins with marinating the beef in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of brown sugar and sesame oil, which infuses the meat with rich flavors. Meanwhile, the broccoli is prepared and lightly coated with oil to ensure it roasts perfectly. Cooking in the air fryer takes only minutes, with the beef acquiring a delightful edge and the broccoli roasting to perfection. The final touch is tossing the cooked beef and broccoli in the air fryer with the remaining sauce, allowing the heat to meld the flavors together and thicken the sauce to a glossy finish. This Easy Beef and Broccoli dish, when served over a bed of steaming rice, offers a satisfying and healthier alternative to takeout, showcasing the versatility and convenience of air frying.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Quick and Easy Preparation: The air fryer significantly cuts down cooking time compared to traditional methods, making this Beef and Broccoli dish a perfect option for busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
• Healthier Option: Cooking with an air fryer uses significantly less oil than frying, making this dish a healthier alternative to takeout while still being packed with flavor.
• Perfectly Cooked Ingredients: The air fryer ensures the beef is beautifully caramelized on the outside while remaining tender on the inside, and the broccoli is cooked to crisp-tender perfection, preserving its nutrients and vibrant color.
• Versatile and Customizable: This recipe can easily be adapted to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Swap the beef for chicken or tofu, adjust the sauce ingredients to control sweetness or saltiness, or add other vegetables for variety.
• Easy Cleanup: Cooking this entire dish in the air fryer not only simplifies the cooking process but also minimizes cleanup, with fewer pots and pans to wash afterward.
• Rich and Flavorful: The marinade and sauce for this Beef and Broccoli recipe are designed to infuse the dish with a depth of savory, umami-rich flavors that rival your favorite Chinese takeout.
• Satisfying Family Meal: This Air Fryer Beef and Broccoli dish is sure to please the whole family, offering a balanced and satisfying meal that’s both comforting and delicious.

Enjoying this Air Fryer Beef and Broccoli recipe means indulging in a classic favorite that’s been transformed into a quick, healthy, and utterly delicious meal that’s as good for a casual family dinner as it is impressive for guests.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Beef and Broccoli

Dive into the savory world of Air Fryer Beef and Broccoli, a dish that marries the richness of beef with the freshness of broccoli, all brought together under a symphony of flavors. This recipe not only promises a delightful meal that’s quick and easy to prepare in your air fryer but also ensures a healthier option without compromising on taste. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to contribute to the depth and balance of flavors, making this classic dish a surefire way to impress at any meal.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Thinly Sliced Beef: Opt for cuts like flank steak or sirloin for their lean texture and ability to absorb the marinade, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.
• Broccoli Florets: Fresh broccoli florets add a crunchy texture and a punch of nutrients to the dish, contrasting beautifully with the softness of the beef.
• Soy Sauce: Acts as the base for the marinade and sauce, providing a rich umami flavor that deeply seasons the beef and broccoli.
• Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce, ensuring it clings to the beef and broccoli for a glossy, appetizing finish.
• Soy Sauce: Acts as the base for the marinade and sauce, providing a rich umami flavor that deeply seasons the beef and broccoli.
• Water or Beef Broth: Helps to dilute the sauce to the right consistency, with beef broth offering an extra layer of flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness to balance the savory notes of the soy sauce, enhancing the overall depth of the dish.
• Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with a pungent aroma and taste, a key flavor component in many Asian-inspired recipes.
• Rice Vinegar: Introduces a mild acidity to the sauce, balancing the sweetness and adding a bright, clean finish to the dish.
• Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with a pungent aroma and taste, a key flavor component in many Asian-inspired recipes.
• Onion Powder: Adds a subtle, savory depth to the dish, enhancing the flavors without the bulk of fresh onions.
• Garlic Powder: Provides a convenient and concentrated source of garlic flavor, ensuring the beef and broccoli are evenly seasoned.
• Cooking Spray: Used to lightly coat the air fryer basket, preventing the beef and broccoli from sticking during cooking.
• Optional Garnishes: Sesame seeds and green onions can be sprinkled on top before serving to add color, texture, and a burst of freshness.

How to Make Air Fryer Beef and Broccoli

Making Air Fryer Beef and Broccoli is a quick and convenient way to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal. Here’s a straightforward guide:

Prep the Beef:

Place the steak in a medium-sized bowl and toss with the soy sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the cornstarch and mix it in, so the beef is coated. Set aside.

Cook the Broccoli:

Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees F, for 3-4 minutes, using air fryer setting. Add the broccoli to the basket and spray with cooking spray. Shake the basket to coat the broccoli and cook for 8 minutes, shaking the basket every 2 minutes until tender-crisp and starting to brown. Set aside.

Cook the Beef:

Spray the basket with cooking spray. Add the beef to the basket in a single layer, spray with cooking spray. Air Fry for 15 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes, and coating with more cooking spray. Beef will be cooked through and lightly crispy.

Make the Sauce:

For the sauce, in a small bowl, whisk together the light soy sauce, beef stock, brown sugar, cornstarch, garlic, rice vinegar, and ginger. Set aside. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the cooked beef and broccoli to the pan. Add the sauce, and toss everything to coat. Cook until the sauce is thickened, about 2 minutes. Serve with scallion garnish. Plate, serve, and enjoy!

Recipe Variations

Exploring different recipe variations for Air Fryer Beef and Broccoli can introduce new flavors and textures to this classic dish, making it exciting every time you cook it. Here are some variations to try:

• Vegetarian Twist: Replace beef with firm tofu or tempeh, marinated in the same sauce mixture. This vegetarian alternative offers a hearty texture and absorbs the flavors well, making it a satisfying option for those avoiding meat.
• Spicy Beef and Broccoli: Add a teaspoon or more of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick. This variation is perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their meals, adding an extra layer of flavor to the tender beef and crisp broccoli.
• Sweet and Savory: Mix a tablespoon of honey into the sauce for a sweeter profile that balances the savory soy sauce beautifully. The honey caramelizes slightly in the air fryer, giving the beef and broccoli a delightful glaze.
• Thai-Inspired: Incorporate a tablespoon of Thai curry paste and substitute half of the soy sauce with coconut aminos in the marinade. This variation infuses the dish with the aromatic flavors of Thai cuisine, offering a creamy, spicy, and umami-rich experience.
• Orange Beef and Broccoli: Add the zest and juice of one orange to the marinade for a citrusy twist. The orange flavor complements the beef and broccoli, adding a fresh and slightly sweet taste that brightens the whole dish.
• Sesame Beef and Broccoli: Increase the sesame oil in the marinade and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds generously over the finished dish. This variation highlights the nutty flavor of sesame, adding depth and richness to the beef and broccoli.
• Mongolian Beef Style: Incorporate slices of green onion and a dash of hoisin sauce into the marinade for a Mongolian beef-inspired version. The green onions and hoisin sauce add a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory beef.

Each of these variations allows you to customize the Air Fryer Beef and Broccoli to suit your taste preferences or to simply enjoy a new twist on a classic favorite. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, sweet, or savory, there’s a variation here to satisfy your cravings.

Pro Tips

Mastering Air Fryer Beef and Broccoli requires some savvy tips to ensure the dish turns out flavorful, tender, and perfectly cooked. Here are some pro tips to enhance your cooking experience:

• Pre-Marinate the Beef: Allowing the beef to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) will deeply infuse it with flavors, leading to a more tender and tastier result. The acids in the marinade help to break down the proteins, making the beef more tender.
• Cut Beef Thinly and Against the Grain: Slicing the beef thinly against the muscle grain ensures that each piece is tender and cooks quickly and evenly in the air fryer. This is crucial for achieving the right texture.
• Use Fresh Broccoli: While frozen broccoli can be convenient, fresh broccoli will give you the best texture and flavor. It roasts beautifully in the air fryer, turning tender-crisp without becoming soggy.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Spread the beef and broccoli in a single layer in the air fryer basket, working in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than roasting, affecting the texture and flavor.
• Shake or Turn Halfway Through: Shaking the basket or turning the beef and broccoli halfway through cooking ensures even cooking and browning on all sides.
• Adjust Cooking Time for Broccoli: If you prefer your broccoli more on the tender side, give it a head start in the air fryer before adding the beef. This allows you to control the texture of both components perfectly.
• Thicken the Sauce in a Skillet: If you desire a thicker sauce, consider finishing it on the stovetop. After cooking the beef and broccoli in the air fryer, transfer them to a skillet, pour the sauce over, and simmer until thickened. This method gives you more control over the sauce consistency.
• Garnish for Freshness: Adding a garnish like fresh green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds not only adds a pop of color but also introduces fresh flavors that complement the cooked dish beautifully.
• Let It Rest: Letting the cooked beef rest for a few minutes before serving can help redistribute the juices, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.
• Serve Immediately: Air Fryer Beef and Broccoli is best enjoyed fresh. Serve it immediately after cooking for the best taste and texture, ideally over a bed of fluffy rice or noodles.

By keeping these pro tips in mind, you’ll elevate your Air Fryer Beef and Broccoli to a restaurant-quality level, impressing family and guests alike with your culinary skills.

Faq’s

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but for the best texture, allow it to thaw and drain any excess water before cooking. This helps prevent the broccoli from becoming too soggy during the air frying process.

What type of beef is best for this recipe? Flank steak, sirloin, or skirt steak are excellent choices for this recipe due to their lean texture and flavor. Make sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain for the tenderest results.

How do I prevent the beef from drying out? Avoid overcooking the beef by monitoring it closely during the air frying process. Using a marinade also helps to keep the beef moist and tender.

Can I make this dish ahead of time? While Beef and Broccoli is best served fresh, you can marinate the beef and prepare the broccoli ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer? Preheating the air fryer ensures that your cooking time is accurate and helps achieve a consistent cook on the beef and broccoli. Most recipes benefit from preheating.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative for the marinade and sauce.

How can I thicken the sauce without it being too runny? To thicken the sauce, mix a small amount of cornstarch with water to create a slurry and add it to the sauce. Alternatively, finish the sauce on the stovetop, allowing it to simmer and reduce to the desired thickness.

What can I serve with Air Fryer Beef and Broccoli? This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles. For a low-carb option, serve it with cauliflower rice or alongside a fresh salad.

How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little water or broth if needed to keep the beef and broccoli moist.

Can I double the recipe in the air fryer? Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches to prevent overcrowding. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and steaming instead of roasting or frying.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

• AIR FRYER CHINESE SPARE RIBS
• AIR FRYER CHINESE DONUTS
• INSTANT POT VEGETARIAN CHINESE FRIED RICE
• AIR FRYER, CHINESE SESAME CHICKEN
• AIR FRYER, CHINESE CHICKEN POTSTICKERS (SO EASY!)

Equipment Used

Philips Kitchen Appliances Digital Twin TurboStar Airfryer XXL, with Fat Removal Technology, 3 Lbs, Black, HD9650/96

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