Name: Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 pound flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking); 1 large yellow onion, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish); Sesame seeds (optional)

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If you’ve ever found yourself craving the savory sizzle of a wok at dinner, you’re in for a treat: this Beef and Onion Stir Fry is your ticket to quick, flavorful, and utterly satisfying homemade takeout. Imagine paper-thin beef caramelizing alongside sweet onions, all bathed in a glossy, umami-rich sauce that takes mere minutes to whip up. Whether you are pressed for time or aiming to impress, this Beef and Onion Stir Fry delivers tender bites and bold flavors that will make you forget about takeout menus entirely.

Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the many charms of this Beef and Onion Stir Fry is the simplicity of its ingredients—each one playing a vital role in building those mouthwatering layers of flavor and texture. Let’s take a quick look at why these pantry staples matter.

Flank steak or sirloin (1 pound, thinly sliced against the grain): Slicing the beef thin ensures incredible tenderness and quick, even cooking.
Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): This not only seasons the meat but also serves as the backbone of the stir fry’s signature umami flavor.
Oyster sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds a lightly sweet, complex depth that enriches every bite.
Hoisin sauce (1 tablespoon): Offers a hint of sweetness and a glossy finish to help the sauce cling to every ingredient.
Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Acts as a tenderizer for the beef and helps thicken the sauce at the end.
Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Infuses the dish with warmth and that nutty, toasty aroma we all love in Asian-inspired recipes.
Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon, for cooking): Ensures even stir-frying and a gorgeous golden sear on both onions and beef.
Yellow onion (1 large, sliced): When cooked, the onion turns sweet and melts into the sauce, giving this stir fry its iconic flavor.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Delivers a punch of pungency that wakes up the whole pan.
Fresh ginger (1/2 teaspoon, grated, optional): Adds zing and brightness that’s especially lovely if you love a bit of heat.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Gives a gentle kick and balances out the sweet and salty notes.
Green onions (2, sliced, for garnish): Offer fresh, eye-catching color and a crisp, mild bite at the finish.
Sesame seeds (optional): Lend a little crunch and a final hint of nuttiness for presentation and taste.

How to Make Beef and Onion Stir Fry

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

Start by combining your thinly sliced beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil in a bowl. Toss everything together until the pieces are glistening and well-coated. Let this rest for at least 15 to 30 minutes—this quick marinade magically tenderizes the beef and lays down the first layer of deep flavor for your Beef and Onion Stir Fry.

Step 2: Prep the Aromatics

While the beef is marinating, slice your onion and mince up the garlic and ginger if you’re using it. Having everything ready to go is key because stir-frying moves lightning-fast. This makes for a smoother, more enjoyable cooking process and means your Beef and Onion Stir Fry will come together in a flash.

Step 3: Sizzle the Onions

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the sliced onion and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until they just start to soften and develop some golden edges—the sweet aroma lets you know you’re on the right track.

Step 4: Bloom Garlic and Ginger

Add the minced garlic (and grated ginger, if you like), stirring constantly for about 30 seconds. As soon as you smell their fragrant punch, it’s time for the star ingredient.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Marinated Beef

Push the onions out toward the sides of your pan and add the beef in a single layer. Let it sear undisturbed for a minute or two to build that irresistible caramelization. Then, stir-fry everything together for another 2 to 3 minutes until the beef is just cooked through and beautifully browned—the beef and onion flavors are now officially best friends.

Step 6: Finish and Season

Mix the beef and onions thoroughly, making sure everything is coated in that luscious, glossy sauce. Finish with a generous sprinkle of black pepper and cook for one more minute to let all those flavors merge before removing the pan from the heat.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Right before serving, scatter sliced green onions and a pinch of sesame seeds over the top, if you’re feeling fancy. Serve your Beef and Onion Stir Fry piping hot over a bowl of fluffy white rice for maximum comfort.

How to Serve Beef and Onion Stir Fry

Garnishes

The perfect finishing touches can take your Beef and Onion Stir Fry from everyday to extraordinary. Try a handful of sliced green onions, a shake of toasted sesame seeds, or even a drizzle of chili oil for a pop of heat. Each garnish adds a fresh element, slight crunch, or color that truly brightens the whole dish.

Side Dishes

This stir fry absolutely shines over a bowl of steamed jasmine or basmati rice, which soaks up every bit of that irresistible sauce. For an extra veggie boost, serve alongside lightly sautéed bok choy, snap peas, or a crisp cucumber salad. You can also pair this with egg-fried rice or noodles for a hearty, restaurant-style dinner at home.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting or just feeling a little playful, try serving your Beef and Onion Stir Fry family-style on a large platter, allowing everyone to help themselves. You could also fill lettuce cups with beef and onions for a fun, hands-on appetizer, or tuck the stir fry into steamed bao buns for a clever spin on fusion. There’s no limit to how you can showcase this tasty classic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extras, store your Beef and Onion Stir Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll keep beautifully for up to three days, and the flavors meld together for an even richer experience the next day.

Freezing

Beef and Onion Stir Fry is freezer-friendly! Let the dish cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to two months—just note that onions may soften slightly after being frozen, though the flavors will remain delicious.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the stir fry gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or beef broth if needed to revive the sauciness. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring often for even warmth. The key is not to overcook so the beef stays tender.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely! While flank steak and sirloin are favorites for their tenderness, you can try skirt steak, ribeye, or even pre-sliced “stir fry beef” from your butcher. The key is to slice your beef thinly and always cut against the grain.

Is it possible to make Beef and Onion Stir Fry gluten-free?

Yes, simply use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce, and double-check that your oyster and hoisin sauces are gluten-free varieties. Serve over rice, and you’re all set for a safe and delicious meal.

Can I add more vegetables to this stir fry?

Of course! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas all make fantastic additions. Just stir-fry these veggies alongside the onions, adjusting the cooking time so everything stays crisp-tender.

What’s the best way to get the beef super tender?

Marinating with a little cornstarch and cutting the steak against the grain are secrets for silky, tender beef in any Beef and Onion Stir Fry. Don’t skip these steps, and you’ll be amazed at the results.

Does this recipe double well for a crowd?

Yes! Just be sure to cook the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which ensures each piece sears beautifully. Double (or triple!) the sauce as needed and keep everything warm in a low oven until you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

With its crave-worthy flavor and weeknight-friendly speed, Beef and Onion Stir Fry is a must-try for anyone seeking delicious homemade comfort. Gather your favorite people, fire up the wok, and get ready for a meal that’s as fun to make as it is to devour. Give this recipe a go—you’ll fall in love at the very first bite!

Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe

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4.6 from 7 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Beef and Onion Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful Asian-inspired dish that is perfect for a delicious weeknight meal. Tender slices of beef are marinated in a savory sauce and stir-fried with onions, garlic, and ginger for a dish that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Scale

Marinated Beef:

1 pound flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon sesame oil

Stir Fry:

1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
1 large yellow onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (optional)

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Instructions

Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, marinate the sliced beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Let it sit for 15–30 minutes.
Stir-Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet. Cook onion until softened, then add garlic and ginger. Cook beef in a single layer until browned. Toss everything together and cook until well coated in sauce. Season with black pepper.
Finish: Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve over steamed rice.