If you’re craving a vibrant, comforting dish that’s packed with tender beef and crisp vegetables, this Beef Chop Suey Recipe is an absolute winner that you’ll want to keep in your dinner rotation. Combining a medley of colorful veggies with juicy, marinated steak and a savory sauce, it’s a dish that hits all the right notes—freshness, heartiness, and a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re recreating a favorite Chinese-American classic or simply looking for a delightful meal that comes together quickly, this recipe will make your kitchen smell amazing and your taste buds sing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Beef Chop Suey Recipe lies in its simple, fresh ingredients that each bring their own character to the dish. From the tender sirloin to the crunchy bean sprouts and the aromatic garlic and ginger, every component plays a crucial role in taste, texture, and color.
- 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak: Thinly sliced for quick cooking and maximum tenderness.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami depth to the beef marinade.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps tenderize the beef and create a silky sauce texture.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Perfect for stir-frying at high heat without burning.
- 1 medium onion: Sliced to bring sweetness and mild pungency.
- 2 cups bean sprouts: Adds a fresh, crispy bite and vibrant contrast.
- 1 cup sliced celery: For that satisfying crunch and subtle earthiness.
- 1 cup sliced bell pepper: Choose any color for a pop of brightness and sweetness.
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms: Brings an earthy, meaty layer of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced for a punch of fragrant savoriness.
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger: Adds a zesty warmth that livens up the dish.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Enhances the dish with rich, savory notes.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (extra): To deepen the sauce’s umami profile.
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water: Provides moisture and helps build that luscious sauce.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: To season perfectly.
- Cooked white rice for serving: The perfect base to soak up all the delicious sauce.
How to Make Beef Chop Suey Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Start by combining the thinly sliced beef with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and cornstarch in a bowl. Toss everything together to coat the meat evenly, then let it sit for about 10 to 15 minutes. This simple step not only infuses the beef with flavor but also tenderizes it, ensuring every bite is juicy and satisfying.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Once hot, add the marinated beef and stir-fry it for 2 to 3 minutes. The goal here is to get a nice browning on the meat without fully cooking it through—this keeps the beef tender. After that, remove the beef from the pan and set it aside; you’ll return it later.
Step 3: Stir-fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the sliced onion, celery, bell pepper, mushrooms, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir-fry these colorful veggies for about 3 to 4 minutes until they’re just tender but still have a bit of crunch—this balance is what makes Beef Chop Suey Recipe so delightful.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return the beef to the pan along with the fresh bean sprouts. Add the oyster sauce, the additional tablespoon of soy sauce, and the beef broth or water. Stir everything together and let the mixture cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the beef to reach perfect doneness. Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
How to Serve Beef Chop Suey Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions or a handful of toasted sesame seeds on top for an extra layer of flavor and a lovely presentation. A squeeze of fresh lime juice can also add a delightful brightness that lifts the whole dish.
Side Dishes
This Beef Chop Suey Recipe is traditionally served over steamed white rice, but it also pairs beautifully with fried rice, simple lo mein noodles, or even a crisp Asian cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. The rice or noodles act as the perfect canvas, soaking up the savory sauce to complete your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties or a family feast, serve the stir-fry in a large, shallow bowl so guests can help themselves easily. Alternatively, you can wrap the beef and veggies in butter lettuce leaves for a fun, hands-on experience that adds crunch and freshness with every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place any leftover Beef Chop Suey Recipe in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 2 to 3 days, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or busy weeknights.
Freezing
If you want to keep the dish longer, you can freeze it in suitable containers. While the texture of some vegetables might soften after freezing, the beef and the sauce maintain their wonderful flavor. For best taste, consume within 1 to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help refresh the sauce if it has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving for long periods to keep the beef tender and the vegetables crisp.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin or flank steak works best for quick cooking, you can substitute with skirt steak or even ribeye if you prefer a richer flavor. Just make sure to slice the beef thinly for even cooking.
Is Beef Chop Suey Recipe gluten-free?
Traditional soy sauce contains gluten, but you can easily make this dish gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce and selecting a gluten-free oyster sauce. This swap keeps the flavors authentic while accommodating dietary needs.
What vegetables can I add or substitute?
You have tons of flexibility here! Snow peas, baby corn, water chestnuts, or bamboo shoots are fantastic additions or substitutes that complement the textures and flavors of the dish beautifully.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Definitely. Replace the beef with tofu, tempeh, or even seitan and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The stir-fry technique and sauce will still create a satisfying and flavorful meal.
How long does it take to prepare the Beef Chop Suey Recipe?
This recipe comes together quickly—typically within 30 minutes—including prep and cooking time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending all evening in the kitchen.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am for you to try this Beef Chop Suey Recipe—it’s genuinely one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Easy to whip up, full of fresh vegetables and tender beef, and bursting with classic flavors, it’s a recipe you can rely on to please family and friends alike. So grab your skillet and some fresh ingredients, and dive into this delightful stir-fry adventure!
Print
Beef Chop Suey Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Chinese-American
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
Beef Chop Suey is a delicious Chinese-American stir-fry featuring tender sliced beef and a colorful mix of fresh vegetables tossed in a savory oyster and soy sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner served over steamed white rice.
Ingredients
Beef Marinade
- 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Vegetables & Sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cups bean sprouts
- 1 cup sliced celery
- 1 cup sliced bell pepper (any color)
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (extra)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooked white rice for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Toss well to coat all pieces evenly. Let the beef marinate for 10 to 15 minutes to tenderize and enhance flavor.
- Cook the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until the beef is browned on the outside but not fully cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same pan. Toss in the sliced onion, celery, bell pepper, mushrooms, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are just tender but still crisp.
- Combine and Finish Cooking: Return the beef to the pan along with the bean sprouts. Stir in the oyster sauce, the extra tablespoon of soy sauce, and beef broth. Cook everything together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the beef is fully cooked through.
- Season and Serve: Taste the chop suey and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Serve the hot beef chop suey over steamed white rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can customize the vegetable mix by adding snow peas, baby corn, or other favorites for extra crunch and variety.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute tamari for soy sauce and use a gluten-free oyster sauce.
- Use thinly sliced sirloin or flank steak for the best texture and flavor in this stir-fry.
