Name: Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
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; 1 large yellow onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1/4 cup water or beef broth; Chopped green onions or sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that packs an incredible amount of savory flavor with minimal fuss, Beef and Onion Stir Fry is sure to become your new weeknight hero. With melt-in-your-mouth slices of tender beef, sweet and slightly caramelized onions, and that irresistible glossy sauce, this quick Asian-inspired stir fry proves just how magical simple ingredients can be. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your stir fry adventures, this recipe is all about bringing you juicy beef with vibrant onion flavor in under half an hour!

Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Beef and Onion Stir Fry is how it relies on only a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, blended in just the right way. Each item brings something vital to the table—be it umami depth, subtle sweetness, or that fresh aromatic lift.

Flank steak or sirloin: Thinly sliced against the grain, this cut guarantees tender, flavorful bites that soak up the sauce beautifully.
Soy sauce: The backbone of that classic savory flavor, adding depth and saltiness.
Oyster sauce: Brings a deep, rich umami that makes the sauce truly crave-worthy.
Hoisin sauce: Adds just a hint of sweetness and complexity, rounding out the flavors.
Cornstarch: Essential for velvet-soft beef and creating that signature glossy sauce.
Sesame oil: Infuses a subtle nuttiness and aroma that elevates the whole dish.
Vegetable oil: Ideal for high-heat cooking, ensuring the beef sears without burning.
Large yellow onion: Sliced for sweetness and crunch, the onion is the soulful companion to the beef.
Garlic: Just a couple of cloves bring pungent, aromatic warmth.
Ground black pepper: A touch of heat and earthiness to balance the sauce.
Water or beef broth: Deglazes the pan and helps create a silky, flavorful sauce.
Green onions or sesame seeds (optional): Perfect for garnishing, adding color and brightness to your finished Beef and Onion Stir Fry.

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 mixing bowl. Massage everything together until the pieces are glossy and evenly coated. Let the beef marinate for 15 to 20 minutes so every slice soaks up all that flavor. This quick marinade makes a dramatic difference in tenderness and taste!

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high flame and add the vegetable oil. Once hot, toss in the sliced onions and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes, just until they’re beginning to soften around the edges but still have a little bite. This short cooking time keeps their natural sweetness and crunch intact, which is key to the dish.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Push the sautéed onions to the side of the pan, then spread the marinated beef in a single layer in the empty space. Let it sear undisturbed for about 1 to 2 minutes—you want those edges to develop a caramelized crust. After that, stir-fry everything together for another 3 to 4 minutes, until the beef is mostly browned but still juicy.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Black Pepper

Add the minced garlic and sprinkle in the black pepper. Stir everything swiftly for about 30 seconds, just enough for the garlic’s aroma to bloom without burning. This is where the Beef and Onion Stir Fry really comes alive with layers of savory warmth.

Step 5: Deglaze and Finish the Sauce

Pour in the water or beef broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the surface. Let the sauce bubble for another minute or two, thickening just slightly and coating every morsel of beef and onion. If you like, add a tiny splash of rice vinegar for brightness or a pinch of sugar for extra balance. Your Beef and Onion Stir Fry is ready to serve!

How to Serve Beef and Onion Stir Fry

Garnishes

Scatter chopped green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds over your stir fry before serving. Both add a pop of color and subtle crunch, making your dish look just as inviting as it tastes. For a fragrant zing, try a dash of freshly cracked pepper right before serving.

Side Dishes

Beef and Onion Stir Fry pairs beautifully with hot steamed jasmine or basmati rice, soaking up every last drop of the savory sauce. You could also serve it over noodles, or alongside simple stir-fried greens like bok choy, snap peas, or Chinese broccoli for a truly satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you love entertaining, spoon the stir fry into individual serving bowls over rice and garnish each with a mini bouquet of microgreens or thinly sliced chili. Or, serve family-style on a big platter surrounded by lettuce leaves for a crispy wrap-your-own experience—the perfect centerpiece for a casual dinner party!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Beef and Onion Stir Fry cool fully before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days—just enough time to enjoy it in a packed lunch or quick dinner the next day.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze portions for later, divide the stir fry into freezer-safe containers once cooled. It freezes beautifully for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the Beef and Onion Stir Fry in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth, stirring frequently until hot. This helps the beef stay juicy and the sauce regain its irresistible sheen. Microwaving is convenient too, but just be careful not to overcook the beef.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this stir fry?

Absolutely! While flank steak and sirloin are ideal for their tenderness, you can also use skirt steak, ribeye, or even thinly sliced chuck. Just be sure to slice against the grain to keep the beef tender.

How do I make this Beef and Onion Stir Fry gluten-free?

Simple swaps like tamari for soy sauce and a gluten-free oyster sauce will do the trick. Always double-check your sauces, as some brands may sneak in wheat derivatives.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Definitely! While traditional Beef and Onion Stir Fry celebrates the onion, feel free to toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms for more texture and color. Just remember to keep the veggies crisp-tender for the best results.

What’s the best way to slice beef for stir fry?

Use a sharp knife to cut the beef against the grain into very thin strips. If you’re having trouble, partially freezing the beef for 20 minutes first can make it easier to achieve those perfect slices.

Is there a way to make this stir fry spicy?

Yes! Stir in a pinch of red chili flakes, a dash of sriracha, or freshly sliced chilies alongside the garlic and black pepper for a gentle kick that’s sure to please spice lovers.

Final Thoughts

When you need a fast dinner that’s packed with flavor, Beef and Onion Stir Fry is truly hard to beat. Each bite is a perfect balance of savory sauce, juicy beef, and that irresistible onion sweetness. Give it a try for dinner this week, and don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes your go-to comfort meal!

Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 21 reviews

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

Print Recipe

Description

This Beef and Onion Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful Asian-inspired dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender slices of beef are marinated in a savory sauce and stir-fried with onions and garlic, creating a delicious meal that pairs perfectly with rice or noodles.

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
1 large yellow onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 cup water or beef broth
Chopped green onions or sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Marinate the Beef: Combine sliced beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Marinate for 15–20 minutes.
Stir-Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet, stir-fry onions until softened. Add marinated beef, sear, then stir-fry until browned. Add garlic, pepper, and water. Cook until slightly thickened.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds. Serve hot over rice or noodles.