Beef and Onion Stir Fry

Beef and Onion Stir Fry is a classic, comforting dish made with tender marinated beef and sweet onions cooked in a savory sauce. It's quick to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it with steamed rice or enjoy it on its own for an easy, satisfying meal.

Jump to:

• About the Ingredients
• How to Stir Fry Beef and Onion (Step by Step)
• Storage & Reheat
• FAQ
• Beef and Onion Stir Fry Recipe
• More Delicious Beef Stir Fry Recipes
• Pin this recipe for later!

About the Ingredients

Here are some tips / info to help you make a delicious Beef and Onion Stir Fry:

Beef

For stir frying, tender beef cuts such as sirloin, ribeye, tri tip, top loin, tenderloin, and flat iron all work very well. Just make sure to cut the beef in to strips or smaller and equal sizes for even cooking!

In this recipe, I used ribeye this round (as pictured), but I do switch it up occasionally, so you may want to try all different types and see what is your favorite!

Onions

I used white onions for this dish. But you can also use yellow onions, sweet onions.

Yellow onions are the most common onion used in cooking - they are mild and sweet when cooked. White onions have a milder, sweeter flavor than yellow onions. And Sweet onions have a mild sweetness, and are less pungent than yellow onions due to its lower sulfur content and higher water content.

Oyster Sauce

Oyster sauce is actually literally made by cooking oysters, so if you are eating a plant based diet, make sure to buy vegetarian oyster sauce. I actually recommend the vegetarian one as they make it with shiitake mushrooms and I find that I like that flavor more than regular oyster sauce!

Sesame oil

I use light sesame oil for this dish.

Light sesame oil (or aka pure sesame oil) can be used as a cooking oil, similar to vegetable oil, except of course it gives off a delicious sesame flavor. This type of of sesame oil has a higher smoke point than dark sesame oil, so you can actually use it for deep frying.

If your sesame oil doesn't mention if it is light or dark sesame oil, it should be the light one.

How to Stir Fry Beef and Onion (Step by Step)

First gather the ingredients:

• 1 lb beef, sliced (I used ribeye)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• 1 medium onion (I used white, but you can use yellow or sweet onion also)
• Salt as desired

Slice the beef and onion
Slice beef thinly against the grain and slice the onion into strips.

Marinate the beef
In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Marinate for 15-30 minutes. If prepping ahead, refrigerate until ready to cook.

Cook the beef
Heat cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir fry until mostly browned.

Add onions
Add sliced onions and stir fry for 3-4 minutes, until softened but still slightly crisp.

Season and serve
Taste and adjust salt if needed. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Storage & Reheat

How to Store Leftovers

Let the stir fry cool completely before storing. Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Can You Freeze Beef and Onion Stir Fry?

Yes, freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that onions will soften more once thawed, but the flavor will still be great.

Best Way to Reheat

• Stovetop (Best): Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, and stir fry for 3-4 minutes until hot.
• Microwave (Quick): Heat in short bursts (about 45 seconds at a time), stirring between each, until warmed through.

FAQ

Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?

Yes - sirloin, tenderloin, tri tip, or flank steak all work well. Just slice thinly against the grain for tenderness.

Can I Make It Without Oyster Sauce?

Yes - you can substitute with hoisin sauce for a sweeter flavor, or soy sauce plus a little sugar for a simpler option.

How Do I Prevent the Beef from Turning Tough?

Marinate with cornstarch, slice thinly against the grain, and avoid overcooking - beef cooks quickly in a stir fry.

Can I Add Vegetables?

Definitely! Bell peppers, snow peas, or baby corn pair nicely with the beef and onions without overpowering the dish.

More Delicious Beef Stir Fry Recipes

• Beef Noodles Stir Fry - Marinated beef stir fried with garlic, carrots, onions, snow peas, and tender noodles in a flavorful sauce. A satisfying one-pan dish!
• Beef and Vegetables Stir Fry - A quick stir fry with juicy beef, baby corn, asparagus, and carrots in a savory sauce. Simple, healthy, and super tasty.
• Mongolian Beef Stir Fry - Tender beef and onions cooked in a sweet-savory sauce. A restaurant favorite made easy at home!
• Beef Yu Choy Stir Fry - Tender beef paired with crunchy yu choy (a leafy Chinese veggie) in a garlicky soy-based sauce. Simple and satisfying!

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