This beef stir fry with asparagus is a fast, flavorful dish packed with tender steak, crisp veggies, and a rich, garlicky sauce.
It’s better than takeout—and comes together in under 30 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy stir fry for weeknights.
Tender marinated beef cooked to golden perfection.
Flavor-packed sauce with garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
Crisp asparagus for balance and color.
Great with rice or noodles—versatile and satisfying!
Ingredient Highlights
Beef flank or skirt steak – Thinly sliced and marinated for melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Baking soda & cornstarch – Classic tenderizing combo in Chinese stir fries.
Light & dark soy sauce – Brings depth and umami to both marinade and sauce.
Oyster sauce & sesame oil – Adds complexity, richness, and a savory-sweet note.
Ginger & garlic – Aromatic base for building flavor in every bite.
Asparagus (or bell pepper) – Brings freshness and crunch to balance the dish.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Slice beef against the grain into thin strips—this keeps it tender.
Don’t skip the baking soda in the marinade—it helps break down muscle fibers.
Use a hot pan and don’t overcrowd—cook the beef in a single layer for that golden sear.
Re-stir the sauce before adding it—cornstarch tends to settle.
Prep everything first—stir fry moves fast once it starts!
How to Make Beef Stir Fry with Asparagus
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Add beef to a bowl with baking soda, soy sauce, oil, and cornstarch.
Mix well and let sit while prepping the other ingredients.
Step 2: Mix the Stir Fry Sauce
In a small bowl, combine broth, oyster sauce, light and dark soy sauce, sugar, cornstarch, and sesame oil.
Stir until smooth.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add beef in a single layer and sear until golden underneath.
Flip and cook the other side. Transfer to a plate.
Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
Add remaining oil to the pan. Toss in onions, garlic, and ginger.
Cook until fragrant and slightly softened.
Step 5: Stir Fry the Veggies
Add asparagus and stir fry until it just begins to soften—about 1 minute.
Step 6: Add the Sauce
Re-stir the sauce, then pour into the skillet.
Stir until it thickens and coats the vegetables.
Step 7: Finish & Serve
Return the cooked beef to the skillet.
Toss to combine everything with the sauce.
Serve hot over rice or noodles.
What to Serve It With
Steamed jasmine or brown rice
Garlic fried rice or sesame noodles
Stir-fried bok choy or broccoli
Fresh cucumber salad with vinegar
Crispy spring rolls on the side
Variations / Substitutions
Use chicken, tofu, or shrimp in place of beef.
Swap asparagus for bell pepper, broccoli, or snap peas.
Add a pinch of chili flakes or fresh chili for heat.
Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt content.
Make it gluten-free with tamari instead of soy sauce.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Meal prep friendly – Make ahead and portion into containers with rice.
Avoid freezing – Sauce may separate and veggies can become mushy.
FAQs
Can I use another cut of beef?
Yes—sirloin or ribeye works well if sliced thinly.
Do I need both light and dark soy sauce?
They bring different flavors, but you can use only light soy if needed.
Is oyster sauce essential?
It adds great flavor, but hoisin sauce is a possible substitute.
Can I skip baking soda in the marinade?
It’s optional, but it helps tenderize tougher cuts like flank steak.
What’s the best oil for stir fry?
Use high-smoke point oils like peanut or vegetable oil.
How do I keep the beef tender?
Thin slices, quick cooking, and marinating are key.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes—use tofu and swap oyster sauce for a mushroom-based version.
Final Thoughts
This beef stir fry with asparagus is my go-to for a satisfying, balanced dinner that feels both comforting and fresh.
With juicy, tender slices of beef, crisp veggies, and a savory garlic-sesame sauce, it’s guaranteed to please the whole table—and it’s quicker than ordering in!
