Stir-Fried Beef with Garlic and Sesame Sauce
Tender strips of beef stir-fried with garlic and coated in a savory sesame sauce, perfect over steamed rice or noodles. This asian-inspired beef ready in about 28 minutes blends minced garlic cloves, soy sauce, sesame oil into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 3, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 12 oz, thinly sliced against the grain flank steak
- 4, minced garlic cloves
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2, sliced thin green onions
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine 3 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp brown sugar, and 1 tsp cornstarch. Add 12 oz thinly sliced flank steak and toss to coat. Let marinate for 15 minutes.
- Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Step 3: Add the marinated beef slices to the skillet in a single layer and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through.
- Step 4: Stir in 2 sliced green onions and cook for an additional 30 seconds until slightly wilted.
- Step 5: Remove from heat and sprinkle 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds over the top before serving.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Stir-Fried Beef with Garlic and Sesame Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 28 minutes (20 min prep + 8 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Stir-Fried Beef with Garlic and Sesame Sauce?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Stir-Fried Beef with Garlic and Sesame Sauce?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Stir-Fried Beef with Garlic and Sesame Sauce for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 3 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 3). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Stir-Fried Beef with Garlic and Sesame Sauce?
Asian beef like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
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