*This post may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. For more information, please see our disclaimer.
When you’re following a low-carb or keto lifestyle, one of the biggest challenges is recreating your favorite takeout meals in a healthier, blood sugar-friendly way. That’s where this Low Carb Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry comes in.
Packed with tender strips of seared beef, vibrant green broccoli, and a rich, savory sauce that clings to every bite, this dish brings all the satisfaction of Chinese takeout—without the carbs, cornstarch, or added sugars.
This recipe is fast, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or whenever you want something hearty but light. With a few smart substitutions and keto-friendly ingredients, you can enjoy this comfort food classic without falling out of ketosis.
Why Make This Low Carb Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry?
There are plenty of reasons to love this dish—especially if you’re eating low carb or keto. Here are the top benefits that make this recipe a must-try:
It’s Low in Carbs but Big on Flavor
With just 4 net carbs per serving, this stir fry is perfect for those watching their carb intake. Thanks to the use of low-carb sweeteners, xanthan gum as a thickener, and keto-compliant vegetables, you get the full stir fry experience with none of the blood sugar spikes.
Quick and Easy to Prepare
From prep to plate, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes. That makes it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners when you still want something homemade and nutritious.
Uses Simple, Clean Ingredients
There are no complicated or hard-to-find ingredients here. Just high-quality beef, fresh vegetables, and a simple, flavorful sauce made from pantry staples.
Meal Prep Friendly
This dish keeps well in the fridge and reheats beautifully, making it a solid option for low-carb meal prepping. You can even double the batch and store individual portions for the week ahead.
If you enjoy easy, low-carb dinners like this, be sure to download the FREE Keto Cookbook – 21 Delicious Recipes. It’s filled with time-saving, high-flavor meals that help you stay in ketosis while enjoying every bite.
Ingredients List
To keep this recipe as low-carb as possible, we’ve chosen ingredients that are keto-approved and widely available.
Main Ingredients
1 pound flank steak or sirloin, sliced thin against the grain
Tip: Partially freeze the beef for 15–20 minutes for easier slicing.4 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen (if using frozen, thaw and pat dry)
2 tablespoons avocado oil, or another high-heat neutral oil
Sauce Ingredients
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free option)
2 teaspoons sesame oil
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, peeled and grated
⅓ cup beef broth, low sodium preferred
1 tablespoon low-carb sweetener, such as erythritol, monk fruit blend, or allulose
½ teaspoon xanthan gum
Optional: Use 1 teaspoon arrowroot powder if not strictly keto. This adds 1–2 net carbs per serving.
For those new to cooking stir fries, the key to success is mise en place—having all your ingredients measured, prepped, and ready to go before heating your skillet. Stir frying happens quickly, so preparation is essential.
Read More: Keto Creamy Italian Tuscan Chicken
Step-by-Step Instructions
This stir fry comes together in a few simple steps. Follow these detailed instructions to achieve perfect texture and flavor every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Slice the beef thinly against the grain using a sharp knife. Thinner slices will cook quickly and stay tender.
Chop the broccoli into small florets. If using fresh, rinse and dry thoroughly. If using frozen, make sure it is thawed and well-drained.
Mince garlic and grate fresh ginger. These will go into the sauce and should be ready before you start cooking.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together:
¼ cup soy sauce or tamari
2 teaspoons sesame oil
3 cloves minced garlic
1 tablespoon grated ginger
⅓ cup beef broth
1 tablespoon low-carb sweetener
½ teaspoon xanthan gum (or arrowroot, if preferred)
Whisk thoroughly to combine and dissolve the sweetener. Set aside near your stovetop.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add broccoli and stir fry for 3–4 minutes, until it becomes bright green and slightly tender. You want it crisp-tender, not mushy.
Remove from skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 4: Sear the Beef
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet.
Increase the heat slightly and add sliced beef in a single layer. Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
Sear each piece for 1–2 minutes per side until browned and just cooked through. Do not overcook or the beef may become tough.
Once cooked, return all beef to the pan.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the broccoli to the skillet with the beef.
Pour the prepared sauce over everything.
Stir well and cook for 2–3 more minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the meat and vegetables evenly.
If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of beef broth to loosen it slightly. If it’s too thin, allow it to simmer a minute or two longer.
For more detailed keto recipes with tested techniques, download the FREE Keto Cookbook – 21 Delicious Recipes. It’s perfect for beginners looking to master low-carb cooking at home.
Tips and Substitutions
Best beef cuts: Flank steak, skirt steak, sirloin, or ribeye all work well. Just be sure to slice against the grain for tenderness.
Vegetable swaps: Cauliflower florets, zucchini, or bell peppers can be used instead of or alongside broccoli.
Sweetener substitutions: Erythritol and monk fruit work best in this recipe. Stevia can be too concentrated and may have an aftertaste. Always taste your sauce before using.
Low sodium tip: To keep the dish from becoming too salty, use low-sodium broth and tamari or soy sauce.
Read More: Rustic Keto Chicken Cacciatore
Recipe Variations
You can modify this base recipe in several ways to match your preferences or dietary needs:
Spicy Beef and Broccoli
Add chili flakes, fresh jalapeño slices, or a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce to the stir fry for a spicy twist.
Beef and Mushroom Stir Fry
Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté them alongside the broccoli.
Peanut Beef and Broccoli
Whisk in 1 tablespoon of unsweetened peanut butter into the sauce for a creamy, nutty version.
Chicken or Pork Variation
Replace the beef with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or thin-sliced pork tenderloin for a different protein profile.
Looking for even more recipe variations? The FREE Keto Cookbook – 21 Delicious Recipes includes alternate versions of your favorite comfort foods so you never get bored on your keto journey.
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving – Serves 4)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 295 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Total Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Net Carbohydrates | 4g |
| Sugars | 1g |
| Sodium | 720mg |
Read More: Keto Creamy Chicken Pumpkin Soup
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Storing Leftovers
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Freezer: Place in freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Serve over cauliflower rice for a complete keto meal.
Try with shirataki noodles for a low-carb noodle stir fry.
Garnish with green onions or toasted sesame seeds for texture and freshness.
Looking to build a complete low-carb dinner with minimal prep? The FREE Keto Cookbook – 21 Delicious Recipes includes side dishes and main courses that pair perfectly with recipes like this.
Common Questions
Can I make this stir fry ahead of time?
Yes. It reheats well and is great for meal prep. Just keep the sauce and stir fry separate if storing for more than 2 days to maintain the best texture.
What’s the best way to slice beef thinly?
Freeze the meat for 15–20 minutes before slicing. Use a sharp knife to cut thin strips against the grain for the most tender result.
Can I make this without xanthan gum?
Yes, the sauce will still be flavorful, but it may be slightly thinner. You can reduce the broth slightly or simmer the sauce longer to thicken naturally.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, it is dairy-free as written.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Use a large wok or cook the beef in batches to avoid steaming.
Conclusion
This Low Carb Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is more than just a keto version of your favorite takeout—it’s a quick, satisfying, and healthy dinner that’s perfect for anyone cutting carbs. With tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce, it’s a complete meal in one skillet that delivers bold flavor without the guilt.
Whether you’re just starting your keto journey or looking to refresh your recipe rotation, this dish is sure to become a favorite. It’s easy to customize, easy to store, and easy to love.
You May Also Like:
1. Cheesy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats
2. Bacon Egg and Cheese Muffins
3. Easy Keto Taco Bell Chicken Quesadilla
