Who doesn’t love a good side dish? We all know that beef and broccoli is a classic combo. But what about those side dishes that make it sing?
We’ve scoured our memories (and our freezers) for dishes that pair perfectly with that savory beef and those tender broccoli florets.
From crispy fried rice to zesty garlic noodles, there’s a whole world beyond takeout containers.
Picture this: you’re at home, feeling fancy, but you still want to keep it easy. We’re here to help you level up your dinner game without breaking a sweat. Let’s dig into the best side dishes that will make your beef and broccoli shine.
Top 13 Side Dishes for Beef and Broccoli
Here are our top picks for the best side dishes to serve with beef and broccoli:
1 – Fried Rice with Vegetables
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What’s the deal with fried rice, right? It’s like the show-stealer at every dinner party.
It combines leftover rice with veggies and maybe some eggs. Super easy to whip up.
Season it with soy sauce and sesame oil. Those little tweaks make a big difference.
Throw in any leftover protein you have, and you’ve just turned a side into a dish. We often toss in green onions or peas just for crunch.
Serve it right after cooking. That’s when it tastes best.
2 – Sesame Noodles
Noodle lovers, where you at? Here’s a quick side dish that’s all about that slurp factor.
Sesame noodles are straightforward. They mix simple ingredients like noodles, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Toss in some veggies if you want crunch.
We usually go heavy on the sesame seeds. They add texture and a nutty vibe.
Make it cold or warm; either way, it’s tasty. These noodles disappear fast at parties. Keep some ready for any occasion.
3 – Steamed Jasmine Rice
Steamed jasmine rice is the reliable sidekick we all need. It’s light, fluffy, and has that hint of floral aroma. Seriously, it’s like eating a cloud that pairs nicely with all our favourite dishes.
We rinse it well before cooking to remove extra starch. This step helps avoid clumpiness. Timing is key for perfect texture. A 1:1 ratio of water to rice usually gets it just right.
Let it steam, and don’t lift the lid too often. Keeping the steam in is essential. We often batch-cook and stash some away for quick meals later.
4 – Spicy Szechuan Eggplant
Spicy Szechuan eggplant is a must. It’s all about those bold flavors and that silky texture. We usually pick long, thin eggplants for this dish.
A quick fry brings out the magic. Add a mix of Szechuan peppercorns and chilis for that kick. We often drizzle in soy sauce for that savory touch.
Serve it hot with rice or noodles. It’s a real crowd-pleaser at dinner. Just make sure no one is sensitive to spice!
5 – Tangy Ginger Carrots
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Carrots need more than just being crunchy. These ginger-infused beauties add zest. We combine them with a splash of vinegar for that tangy kick.
Don’t overcook them. A little crunch keeps us coming back. Sauté with fresh ginger and garlic for a quick flavour boost.
They pair well with almost anything. Served warm or cold, they work. Toss in some sesame seeds at the end for extra texture.
We enjoy them straight from the pan. They never last long in our fridge.
6 – Garlic Green Beans
Garlic green beans are a classic. They’re easy and always deliver. We toss fresh green beans into a hot pan with olive oil and minced garlic. That simple combo works wonders.
Timing is everything here. A quick sauté captures that bright crunch. We sprinkle a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
Feel free to add a splash of soy sauce for something different. They fit with nearly any meal. Whether it’s a handling of beef and broccoli or just on their own, we can’t get enough.
7 – Hot and Sour Soup
Hot and sour soup is the go-to for chilly nights. It’s warm, tangy, and wicked tasty. This dish boasts a mix of mushrooms, tofu, and those tiny bamboo shoots that add a crunch.
We get some heat from the white pepper, so keep a glass of water handy. Don’t skip the vinegar; it brings the sour that balances everything out.
It’s quick to whip up, making weeknight dinners easier. A splash of soy sauce ties it all together.
8 – Crispy Spring Rolls
Crispy spring rolls? Who doesn’t want something crunchy stuffed with goodness?
These little bites are filled with veggies, meat, or even noodles.
Crispy outside, warm inside—that’s the vibe. We like to fry them, but baking works too.
Dipping sauce is essential. Sweet chili or soy sauce are top choices.
Watch them disappear at parties. Leftovers? Reheat them in the air fryer for a quick snack.
Embrace the crunch and keep it simple.
9 – Coconut Curry Cauliflower
Coconut curry cauliflower is like a flavour party. It’s all about those rich, creamy notes. This dish brings together cauliflower and coconut milk in a spicy blend.
We roast the cauliflower first for that crispy texture. This step changes everything. Add curry powder and a bit of turmeric for colour and warmth.
Perfect for using up pantry staples, it fits any meal plan. Leftovers taste awesome the next day too. A splash of lime at the end brightens things up nicely.
10 – Asian Slaw
Ready for some crunch? This slaw is a mix of shredded cabbage, carrots, and a zingy dressing. It’s fresh, tangy, and brings a quick bite.
We add sesame oil and rice vinegar for that punch. A sprinkle of sesame seeds boosts the vibe.
Feel free to throw in other veggies, like bell peppers or cilantro.
Make it ahead for meal prep. It holds up well in the fridge.
This side pairs great with any rich dish. Enjoy the crispness!
11 – Lemon Herb Quinoa
Quinoa is like the cool cousin of grains. It’s fluffy and nutty. We often add lemon zest and fresh herbs for zing.
Cooking it takes a little attention, but it’s totally doable. Use broth for extra flavour. Rinsing it well helps remove bitterness.
This dish holds up well as leftovers. We make a big batch. It goes with almost everything—grilled chicken, roast veggies, or just by itself.
Super versatile and light, it brightens up any plate.
12 – Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Are skewers the ultimate side dish? We’re thinking maybe so. Teriyaki chicken skewers are easy and quick. Marinade chicken pieces in teriyaki sauce, then grill them.
They’re juicy and packed with flavor. A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds crunch.
We love adding veggies to the mix, too. Peppers and onions work great.
Keep an eye on the grill; timing matters. These can go from delicious to charred fast.
They’re a solid choice for any gathering. Enjoy them fresh, and they’re even good cold!
13 – Chinese Scallion Pancakes
Scallion pancakes are like the cool kids at the dinner party. They’re flaky and crispy with just enough green onion goodness. No fancy ingredients needed.
We whip up a simple dough and roll in those scallions. Hot oil and a skillet work wonders here.
Timing matters; golden brown is the goal. Dipping sauce is non-negotiable. Soy sauce or a spicy blend makes everything better.
They disappear quickly. These are always a hit, whether as a snack or side. We make extra, for sure!
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.