This Lemon Garlic Steak and Broccoli Skillet is a tasty one-pan dish that’s quick and easy. Juicy steak and crisp broccoli are cooked together in a lemony, garlicky sauce that makes your taste buds dance!
I love how this meal is ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights. Plus, the bright lemon flavor adds a cheerful twist. Trust me, your dinner table will thank you! 🍋🥩
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak or Sirloin: Both cuts work well, but flank steak is leaner and great for quick cooking. If you want a more budget-friendly option, try skirt steak or even chicken breast for a lighter meal.
Broccoli: Fresh is best, but you can substitute with other veggies like snap peas or asparagus if broccoli isn’t available. Just adjust cooking times as needed for different vegetables.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor, but you can also use avocado oil. It’s a great alternative with a high smoke point and a mild taste.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish, but bottled lemon juice works too in a pinch. If you prefer, lime can replace lemon for a different twist!
How Do I Sear Steak Perfectly?
Searing steak is key to getting that delicious crust and flavor. Make sure to follow these tips:
- Heat your skillet really well—medium-high heat is perfect. A hot pan ensures a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If you add too much meat at once, the temperature drops, and you won’t get that nice brown crust.
- Let the steak sear without moving it around. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip—this helps build flavor and texture.
Once you see a nice brown crust, it’s time to flip! This method creates a tasty steak that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients in this dish.
Lemon Garlic Steak and Broccoli Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced into strips
- 4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Lemon Garlic Steak and Broccoli Skillet takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep, including slicing the steak and chopping the veggies, and around 20 minutes to cook everything to perfection. It’s a quick dish that’s full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Steak:
Heat 1 ½ tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil heats, season the sliced steak generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Once the skillet is hot, add the steak strips in a single layer. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned but still a little undercooked. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Onions:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 ½ tablespoons of olive oil. Toss in the sliced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become slightly softened and translucent. Keep stirring so they don’t burn!
3. Add Garlic and Broccoli:
Now it’s time to add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them) to the skillet. Cook this mixture for about 30 seconds, just enough time to release the wonderful aromas. Next, add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir frequently and let the broccoli cook for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes bright green and tender-crisp.
4. Combine Everything:
Return the seared steak strips back to the skillet with the broccoli and sautéed onions. Gently stir to combine all the ingredients for a minute.
5. Add Lemon and Serve:
Now, squeeze in the lemon juice and sprinkle in the zest. Toss everything together so the steak and broccoli are evenly coated in the delicious lemon-garlic sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld and ensure the steak is fully cooked. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed!
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your dish with chopped fresh parsley or chives, and serve it hot with extra lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful Lemon Garlic Steak and Broccoli Skillet!
Can I Use Frozen Steak for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen steak, but it’s essential to thaw it completely first for even cooking. Thaw the steak in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method—place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Garlic?
No worries! You can substitute fresh garlic with garlic powder. Use about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic. Just sprinkle it in when adding the sliced onions to the skillet.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave. You may want to add a splash of lemon juice to freshen the flavors!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or asparagus. Just make sure to adjust cooking times according to how fast they cook—some may need less time, while others may need a bit more!
