Lemon Garlic Steak and Broccoli Skillet

Lemon Garlic Steak and Broccoli Skillet is a quick, one-pan meal that combines tender, juicy steak with perfectly cooked broccoli in a bright, garlicky lemon sauce. This recipe is all about bold flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or meal prep staple. The steak is seared to perfection, creating a crispy exterior and a tender interior, while the broccoli is sautéed to a vibrant green with a slight crunch. The lemon and garlic sauce ties it all together, giving the dish a refreshing, tangy twist that balances the rich flavors of the steak.

This dish is as healthy as it is delicious, offering a low-carb, high-protein option that’s packed with nutrients. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make in just 30 minutes, using only one skillet for minimal cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping meals for the week, or hosting a casual dinner party, Lemon Garlic Steak and Broccoli Skillet is a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with this Lemon Garlic Steak and Broccoli Skillet:

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes and one skillet, you can have a complete meal ready to go.
• Healthy and Nutritious: This recipe is naturally low-carb, keto-friendly, and loaded with protein, vitamins, and fiber.
• Fresh, Bold Flavors: The zesty lemon and aromatic garlic elevate the dish, creating a restaurant-quality flavor profile.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, swap out the veggies, or try different cuts of steak to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish reheats beautifully, making it ideal for packed lunches or ready-to-eat dinners.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 portion of steak and broccoli with sauce

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 350
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 21g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Steak and Broccoli:

• 1 lb sirloin steak (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Lemon Garlic Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup chicken broth (or beef broth)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This ensures a better sear. Season the steak generously with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. If using fresh broccoli, cut it into bite-sized florets. If using frozen, let it thaw slightly and pat dry to prevent excess water in the skillet.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the steak cubes in a single layer. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until the steak is browned and cooked to your desired doneness (135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium).
3. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the broccoli florets and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp. If needed, add a splash of water to steam the broccoli slightly.
3. Remove the broccoli from the skillet and set aside with the steak.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce

1. Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Let it melt, then stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, chicken broth, and lemon zest. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

1. Return the steak and broccoli to the skillet, tossing them gently in the lemon garlic sauce until everything is well coated and warmed through.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Ingredient Background

• Sirloin Steak: Sirloin is a lean, flavorful cut that works well for quick-cooking methods like sautéing. You can also use ribeye, strip steak, or flank steak for this recipe.
• Broccoli: This nutrient-rich vegetable is packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Fresh broccoli gives a firmer texture, but frozen works just as well.
• Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide a bright, tangy flavor that enhances the dish.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds aromatic depth and a classic savory note.
• Chicken Broth: This adds richness to the sauce and prevents it from becoming overly acidic.

Technique Tips

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the steak in batches if necessary to avoid steaming instead of searing.
2. Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice delivers a brighter, more vibrant flavor than bottled lemon juice.
3. Monitor Heat Levels: Keep an eye on the heat to prevent the garlic from burning, which can make the sauce bitter.
4. Steam for Tender Broccoli: Add a tablespoon of water or broth to the skillet and cover it briefly to help soften the broccoli.
5. Deglaze the Pan: Scrape up any browned bits from the skillet when making the sauce for added flavor.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Rice Bowl: Serve the steak and broccoli over a bed of steamed white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
• Pasta Night: Toss the steak, broccoli, and lemon garlic sauce with cooked pasta or zucchini noodles.
• Salad Topping: Use the steak and broccoli as a protein-packed topping for a fresh green salad.
• Wraps or Tacos: Fill tortillas or lettuce wraps with the steak and broccoli mixture for a fun handheld meal.

Additional Tips for Success

• Marinate the Steak: For extra flavor, marinate the steak in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth to loosen it.
• Add Extra Veggies: Include bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for more color and variety.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Lemon Garlic Steak: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the lemon garlic sauce for a spicy kick.
• Creamy Sauce: Stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy twist on the sauce.
• Asian-Inspired Version: Replace Dijon mustard with soy sauce and add a drizzle of sesame oil for an Asian-inspired flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap the steak for tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Freezing and Storage

• To Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• To Freeze: Freeze the cooked steak and broccoli in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to refresh the sauce.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use Leaner Cuts of Meat: Try flank steak or strip steak for a lower-fat option.
• Reduce Butter: Use half the butter and replace the rest with olive oil for a lighter sauce.
• Add More Greens: Toss in spinach, kale, or arugula for an extra boost of nutrients.
• Serve with Cauliflower Rice: Substitute regular rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Weeknight Dinner: Pair with quinoa or mashed sweet potatoes for a simple, balanced meal.
• Meal Prep: Divide the steak and broccoli into individual containers with rice or another side for easy grab-and-go lunches.
• Casual Gatherings: Serve as part of a buffet spread with other skillet dishes or roasted vegetables.
• Elegant Dinner: Plate the steak and broccoli with creamy polenta or garlic mashed potatoes for a more formal presentation.

Special Equipment

• Large skillet
• Zester or microplane (for lemon zest)
• Tongs (for tossing the steak and broccoli)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes! Just let the frozen broccoli thaw slightly and pat it dry to prevent excess water from diluting the sauce.

2. How do I prevent the steak from becoming tough?
Cook the steak quickly over high heat and avoid overcooking. Let it rest after cooking to keep it juicy.

3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative or extra olive oil.

4. What other cuts of steak can I use?
You can use ribeye, strip steak, or flank steak. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the steak.

5. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Bell peppers, mushrooms, carrots, or snap peas make excellent additions.

6. How can I make the sauce thicker?
Let the sauce simmer longer, or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) for a thicker consistency.

7. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Store the steak and broccoli in separate containers to preserve the texture of the broccoli.

8. What can I use instead of chicken broth?
Beef broth, vegetable broth, or even water with a dash of soy sauce works as a substitute.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Steak and Broccoli Skillet is the ultimate combination of convenience, flavor, and nutrition. With tender steak, vibrant broccoli, and a zesty lemon garlic sauce, this dish hits all the right notes. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for everything from busy weeknights to elegant dinners. Give this recipe a try and savor a skillet meal that’s sure to impress!

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