This Lemon Garlic Steak and Broccoli Skillet is a quick meal bursting with flavor! Juicy steak meets tender broccoli, all cooked together with zesty lemon and garlic for a tasty stir-fry.
I love how simple it is to make! Just sear the steak, toss in the broccoli, and let those flavors come together. Plus, it’s a great way to impress dinner guests without much effort! 🍽️
Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak or Sirloin: I like flank steak for its tenderness, but sirloin works great too! If you’re seeking a leaner option, consider using chicken or tofu. You can slice them similarly to maintain the dish’s style.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli provides the best crunch and flavor. If broccoli isn’t available, feel free to use green beans or snap peas for a similar texture.
Olive Oil: This oil is fantastic for sautéing. For a different flavor, you could use avocado oil or sesame oil, especially if you enjoy those tastes.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is ideal, but garlic powder can work if you’re in a pinch. Just use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish. No fresh lemons? Try bottled lemon juice, but use less, as it can be more concentrated.
Beef Broth: This adds depth. You can replace it with vegetable broth or even water if you’re looking for a lighter version.
How Do I Make Sure My Steak Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking steak just right can be tricky! Here’s how to ensure it’s tender and juicy:
- Pat the steak dry before seasoning; this helps it caramelize during cooking.
- Heat the skillet well before adding the steak. This ensures a good sear.
- Cook in batches if necessary, so the steak can sear properly without crowding the pan.
- Aim for 2-3 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer for precision; 130°F (54°C) is medium-rare.
Let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep it juicy. Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Lemon Garlic Steak and Broccoli Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Components:
- 1 lb (450 g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced into strips
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
For Cooking:
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
For Flavor:
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced (reserve wedges for serving)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional for umami depth)
- 1 tsp dried thyme or fresh if available
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dinner recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time, making a total of 25 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
First, pat the steak strips dry with paper towels. This step helps achieve a nice sear! Season them generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Sear the Steak:
Next, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the steak strips in a single layer. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned and cooked to your liking. Once done, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sliced onion, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until they become fragrant and the onion is slightly softened.
4. Steam the Broccoli:
Add the broccoli florets to the pan. Pour in the beef broth (or water) and cover the skillet. Let it steam for about 4-5 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still crisp. This green veggie adds great nutrition and color!
5. Mix in Flavorful Ingredients:
Once the broccoli is ready, uncover the skillet and add the lemon zest, lemon juice, soy sauce (if using), and thyme to the mix. Stir everything together until well combined.
6. Combine Steak and Broccoli:
Return the cooked steak to the skillet and gently toss it with the broccoli and sauce to reheat the steak and blend the flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives. Serve your Lemon Garlic Steak and Broccoli Skillet with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze of citrus just before eating.
Enjoy your vibrant, zesty meal that brings together the great flavors of citrus, garlic, tender steak, and crisp-tender broccoli!
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Skillet?
Absolutely! While broccoli adds a lovely crunch, you can substitute with vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or green beans. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, especially for those that cook faster.
Can I Make This Recipe with Chicken Instead of Steak?
Yes, you can! Just replace the steak with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, and follow the same cooking method. The cooking time may vary slightly, so ensure the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Meal Gluten-Free?
Yes! Just use gluten-free soy sauce or omit it altogether. The dish will still be flavorful with the lemon, garlic, and other ingredients!
