Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry

Name: Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced; 2 large onions, sliced; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Enjoy a quick and delicious Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry, packed with flavor and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2025-12-18T15:56:39.521Z

This Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry is a delightful dish that brings together tender beef strips with crisp onions, all coated in a savory sauce. It's a quick meal that packs a punch of flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a casual get-together.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of tender beef and crunchy onions
Quick to prepare, ready in under 30 minutes
Packed with umami flavors and a hint of spice

      

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

When you’re busy with work or family commitments, finding time to prepare a wholesome dinner can be challenging. This Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry is the ideal solution, offering a nutritious meal that can be on the table in under 30 minutes. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy restaurant-quality flavors right in your kitchen without the hassle.

The combination of tender beef and caramelized onions creates a delightful contrast in textures. Each bite is bursting with savory goodness, making it a dish everyone at the table will love. Whether you’re entertaining guests or preparing a cozy meal for yourself, this stir fry is versatile enough to fit any occasion.

Customizable and Versatile

One of the great aspects of this recipe is its versatility. While it centers around beef and onions, you can easily modify the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Feel free to add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for an extra pop of color and nutrition. This adaptability makes it easy to incorporate seasonal vegetables or whatever you might need to use up in the fridge.

Additionally, if you're looking to switch up the protein, chicken, shrimp, or tofu can be excellent substitutes. This means you can enjoy this dish over and over again with a fresh twist each time, making it a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider serving this stir fry over a bed of steamed rice or noodles. Both options will absorb the rich flavors of the sauce, making every bite satisfying. For a lighter meal, serve it on a bed of sautéed greens or with a side of crispy spring rolls for a fun, complete meal.

Don’t forget to add a splash of soy sauce or a drizzle of sesame oil just before serving for an extra layer of flavor. Pair your meal with a refreshing cucumber salad or some pickled vegetables to balance the richness of the beef and onions.

Ingredients

For the Stir Fry

1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
2 large onions, sliced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before starting, as stir-frying happens quickly!

Instructions

Prepare the Beef

In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and black pepper. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes.

Stir Fry the Onions

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.

Add Garlic and Ginger

Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan and stir-fry for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Cook the Beef

Add the marinated beef to the pan and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is cooked through and browned.

Finish and Serve

If desired, sprinkle with red pepper flakes for added heat. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.

Serve your stir fry over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal!

Tips for Perfect Stir Fry

To achieve the best texture for your beef, slice it thinly against the grain. This not only helps it cook quickly but also keeps it tender. If you're pressed for time, you can also ask your butcher to slice it for you, ensuring even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.

Make sure your pan or wok is hot before adding the oil and ingredients. A hot pan allows for quick cooking and helps to preserve the vibrant colors and crispness of the vegetables. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if you’re making a larger batch, stir fry in batches to maintain that perfect sear.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is straightforward; simply toss it back in a hot pan or microwave until warmed through. However, be cautious not to overcook the beef during reheating to prevent it from becoming tough.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stir fry for up to three months. Just make sure to label your container with the date. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This makes it easy to have a delicious meal ready for those busy days ahead.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use flank steak or ribeye instead of sirloin.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?

Absolutely! You can substitute beef with tofu or tempeh.

→ How can I make it spicier?

You can add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.

→ Can leftovers be stored?

Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.