Name: Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 large onion (sliced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 lb (450 g) beef (thinly sliced, e.g., flank steak or sirloin); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water); 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying); Salt and pepper (to taste); Green onions (sliced, for garnish)

Jump to Recipe·5 from 18 reviews

Looking for a dish that nails that perfect balance of savory, sweet, and deeply satisfying? This Beef and Onion Stir Fry is a weeknight hero, transforming simple ingredients into a glossy, flavor-packed plate with melt-in-your-mouth beef and sweet, caramelized onions. Every bite is rich with umami and a hint of sesame, making it an irresistible classic in my kitchen. From family dinners to impromptu get-togethers, this stir fry wins hearts every single time, and you’ll love how quick it is to whip up!

Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the joys of Beef and Onion Stir Fry is in its simplicity: a short list of ingredients that each play a crucial role in flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few notes to get the most from each component.

Beef: Thinly sliced flank steak or sirloin works best; cutting against the grain ensures the meat stays tender and soaks up the marinade.
Onion: A large onion, sliced, caramelizes and lends natural sweetness while balancing out the savory flavors.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the stir fry with fragrant depth that brings every ingredient together.
Soy Sauce: Adds salt and umami, making the beef extra savory—choose a good quality sauce for maximum impact.
Oyster Sauce: Offers rich, smoky sweetness and a silky finish to the sauce.
Cornstarch (mixed with water): This slurry thickens the sauce so it clings beautifully to every ingredient.
Sugar: Just a touch rounds out the sauce, enhancing both the beef and onions.
Sesame Oil: Finishing the marinade with sesame oil imparts a nutty aroma you’ll smell as soon as it hits the heat.
Vegetable Oil: For high-heat frying, vegetable oil keeps things sizzling without burning.
Salt and Pepper: Season to taste, highlighting all those bold flavors without overwhelming them.
Green Onions: Sliced green onions finish the dish with freshness and a pop of color.

How to Make Beef and Onion Stir Fry

Step 1: Prep and Marinate the Beef

Start by slicing your beef thinly against the grain—this step is key for tender, juicy bites. In a bowl, mix the beef with soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper, letting it marinate for about 15 to 20 minutes. The marinade will soak into the meat, seasoning it inside and out while helping it stay soft during the quick cook.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat your wok or large skillet over high heat and add the vegetable oil. When the oil shimmers, add the beef in batches—don’t overcrowd the pan. Sear for just 1 to 2 minutes until browned and slightly crisp at the edges, then remove and set aside. This quick sear locks in the marinade and gives the beef a delicious caramelized finish.

Step 3: Caramelize the Onions

In the same pan, toss in the sliced onions. Let them cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. As they soften and turn golden brown, their natural sweetness will intensify, layering the stir fry with loads of flavor.

Step 4: Add the Garlic and Combine Everything

Once the onions are glossy and fragrant, add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds—just long enough to release its aroma. Return the beef to the pan, then pour in the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and the cornstarch slurry. Give everything a good stir until the sauce thickens and glazes the beef and onions beautifully.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Toss in the sliced green onions for a burst of color and crunch. Serve your Beef and Onion Stir Fry piping hot over steamed rice or slurpable noodles, making sure to spoon plenty of glossy sauce over the top. Dig in right away—the aroma is irresistible!

How to Serve Beef and Onion Stir Fry

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly sliced green onions is classic, but you can also add toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of mild chili oil for extra flair. A tiny pinch of cracked black pepper over the top brings a subtle kick and ties all the flavors together, making the dish even more appetizing.

Side Dishes

Beef and Onion Stir Fry is a real showstopper with fluffy steamed jasmine rice soaking up the savory sauce. If you’re after variety, try it alongside garlicky stir-fried greens, simply-steamed broccoli, or a cool cucumber salad. These sides lighten up the meal and bring color and texture to the table.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, serve this stir fry in a big family-style bowl with plenty of extra green onions and sesame seeds. For a fun twist, pile the stir fry into lettuce cups for a hands-on appetizer or onto toasted baguette slices for an Asian-inspired beef crostini that disappears fast at parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Beef and Onion Stir Fry keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors mellow and continue to blend, so don’t be surprised if it tastes even better the next day!

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze your stir fry, let it cool completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results, as rapid reheating from frozen can toughen the meat.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a touch of water or a splash of soy sauce to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating is convenient, but be sure to cover the stir fry with a microwave-safe lid or wrap and use short bursts to avoid overcooking.

Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe

FAQs

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

Absolutely! Flank steak and sirloin are the go-to options for Beef and Onion Stir Fry, but you can substitute with skirt steak or even thinly sliced chuck if that’s what you have on hand. The key is to slice against the grain and not to overcook.

What if I don’t have oyster sauce?

If you’re missing oyster sauce, try using a combination of hoisin sauce and a splash more soy sauce. While it changes the flavor slightly, hoisin still adds depth and touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the onions and beef.

How do I get my beef super tender?

The secret is to cut the beef thinly against the grain and not to skip the marinade step. If you want extra tenderness, marinate the beef with a small pinch of baking soda (less than half a teaspoon) along with the other seasonings for 15–20 minutes before cooking.

Can I add more vegetables?

Of course! Beef and Onion Stir Fry is a versatile dish—try adding bell peppers, snap peas, or even thinly sliced carrots right after the onions for more color and crunch without overshadowing the stars of the dish.

Is this dish good for meal prepping?

Yes, it’s a fantastic option for meal prep. Simply portion the cooked Beef and Onion Stir Fry into containers with rice or noodles, and you’ve got delicious, satisfying lunches or dinners ready to go for the next few days.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dish that’s as comforting as it is satisfying, give this Beef and Onion Stir Fry a spot on your menu soon. It’s quick, delicious, and makes any meal feel special—so grab your wok and treat yourself!

Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need