Looking for a dish that checks all the boxes of savory, satisfying, and spectacularly quick? Say hello to Beef and Onion Stir Fry. This easy classic brings together tender slices of beef, sweet onion, and bold aromatics tossed in a glossy sauce for a weeknight dinner star. Whether you’re firing up your wok for the first time or you’re a stir fry veteran, this crowd-pleaser is certain to win hearts. With minimal prep and just a handful of pantry staples, you’ll get an incredible punch of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about this recipe is how effortlessly it comes together with staple ingredients. Each component is thoughtfully chosen to bring out maximum flavor, juicy texture, and gorgeous color in the Beef and Onion Stir Fry.
- Flank steak: Slice thinly against the grain for tenderness and quick cooking—substitute with sirloin or skirt steak if preferred.
- Soy sauce: Rich umami depth; opt for low-sodium if you want to cut back on saltiness.
- Oyster sauce: Adds a silky texture and slight sweetness for a classic stir fry finish.
- Cornstarch: Coats the beef for extra tenderness and thickens the sauce slightly.
- Vegetable oil: Neutral flavor and high smoke point—perfect for stir fries.
- Yellow onion: Sliced for natural sweetness and a little crunch to contrast the beef.
- Garlic: Minced for punchy, aromatic flavor that infuses the dish.
- Ginger: Brings a warming, spicy note that wakes up the sauce.
- Water: Just a splash to help bring the sauce and stir fry together.
- Sesame oil: For a nutty, fragrant finish—just a drizzle is enough.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Use generously for a gentle kick at the end.
- Chopped green onions (optional): Sprinkle for a fresh, colorful garnish.
- Cooked white rice (for serving): The perfect partner to soak up every drop of savory sauce.
How to Make Beef and Onion Stir Fry
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Combine your thinly sliced flank steak with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch in a medium bowl. Give it a good toss so each piece gets evenly coated—this step ensures juicy, flavorful beef. Let the beef marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prep the rest of your ingredients. If you have extra time, a longer marinade makes the beef even more tender and flavorful.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
Heat your vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the beef in a single layer—don’t overcrowd the pan, or you’ll end up steaming instead of searing. Let the beef brown undisturbed for about 1-2 minutes per side. It shouldn’t be fully cooked yet; removing it now locks in those tasty juices.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Aromatics
In the same pan, check if you need a splash more oil. Toss in your sliced onions and cook for 2-3 minutes. You want them to soften a bit and develop sweetness but still keep some crispness. Add ginger and garlic next, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds. The aroma will be irresistible!
Step 4: Combine and Stir Fry
Return the browned beef (and any juices) to the pan. Pour in those 2 tablespoons of water to deglaze and keep everything juicy. Stir fry for another 2-3 minutes until the beef is cooked through and onions reach that melt-in-your-mouth stage. The sauce should coat everything beautifully without being soupy.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Give your Beef and Onion Stir Fry a generous drizzle of sesame oil and a grind of fresh black pepper. Immediately top with chopped green onions, if you like, and serve hot over fluffy white rice. Every bite is savory, saucy, and just plain delicious!
How to Serve Beef and Onion Stir Fry
Garnishes
A finishing touch can elevate your Beef and Onion Stir Fry from everyday meal to show-stopping centerpiece. A sprinkle of chopped green onions brings sweetness and color, while toasted sesame seeds add delightful crunch and nutty aroma. If you’re feeling bold, add thinly sliced chili for just a hint of heat.
Side Dishes
This stir fry goes hand-in-hand with classic steamed white rice, which soaks up the luscious sauce. For a lighter pairing, spoon it over cauliflower rice or serve alongside crisp stir-fried broccoli, bok choy, or snap peas. A refreshing cucumber salad can cool things off and add crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a modern twist, scoop your stir fry into lettuce cups for a hands-on appetizer or lunch. Layer it into steamed buns, wrap it in a warm tortilla for fusion-style tacos, or even serve it over noodles for an inventive weeknight bowl. The Beef and Onion Stir Fry truly shines however you serve it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extra Beef and Onion Stir Fry (lucky you!), let it cool to room temperature before sealing in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will develop even more, making your next meal extra tasty—just add fresh rice for the ultimate leftover upgrade.
Freezing
For longer storage, spoon cooled Beef and Onion Stir Fry into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Squeeze out any air and seal well. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. For best results, portion into individual servings before freezing—this way, you can thaw just what you need.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the stir fry in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen up the sauce. Stir frequently until everything is heated through. If microwaving, use short bursts and stir in between so the beef stays juicy and the onions don’t overcook.
FAQs
What’s the best cut of beef for Beef and Onion Stir Fry?
Flank steak is ideal because it’s lean and tender when sliced thin against the grain, but you can use sirloin or skirt steak for equally fantastic results. Just remember: thin slices cook fast and stay tender!
Can I add more vegetables to this stir fry?
Absolutely! While classic Beef and Onion Stir Fry focuses on beef and onion, bell peppers, broccoli, snow peas, or carrots all make tasty, colorful additions. Just slice them thin so they cook quickly.
What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
Oyster sauce adds depth, but if you need a substitute, a mix of hoisin and a splash of Worcestershire sauce works. For a vegetarian version, use mushroom-based stir fry sauce.
How do I make this gluten-free?
Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos and check that your oyster sauce is labeled gluten-free. With those easy swaps, the Beef and Onion Stir Fry fits gluten-free diets beautifully!
Is this dish spicy?
The base recipe isn’t spicy at all, but you can easily add heat with sliced chilies, a dash of chili oil, or a pinch of red pepper flakes. Adjust to your spice preference and enjoy!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a quick, restaurant-style dinner at home, Beef and Onion Stir Fry is your new secret weapon. Every forkful is loaded with rich, savory flavor and tender meat, and it’s ready before you know it. Give it a try—you’ll want to make this crave-worthy classic again and again!
Print
Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A quick and flavorful Beef and Onion Stir Fry recipe that is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Tender slices of beef are stir-fried with onions, garlic, and ginger in a savory sauce, served over steamed white rice.
Ingredients
For the Beef:
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 large yellow onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
- Cooked white rice for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Beef: In a medium bowl, combine sliced beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Sear the Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet, sear beef until browned but not fully cooked. Set aside.
- Stir Fry: Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger. Add beef, water, stir-fry until cooked through. Season with sesame oil and black pepper.
- Serve: Garnish with green onions and serve over white rice.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add rice vinegar or sugar.
- Substitute flank steak with sirloin or skirt steak.
- Add bell peppers or broccoli for more vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup stir fry (without rice)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
