Low-Carb Orange Beef and Broccoli – A Flavor-Packed Stir-Fry Without the Guilt

Skip the takeout and savor the rich, citrusy satisfaction of this Low-Carb Orange Beef and Broccoli—a keto-friendly twist on the beloved Chinese-American classic. Bursting with fresh vegetables, tender beef, and a zesty homemade orange sauce, this dish keeps the flavor high and the carbs low, making it ideal for anyone looking to eat healthy without sacrificing taste.

This one-skillet wonder comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option for busy families, meal-preppers, or anyone following a low-carb, paleo, or keto diet. Whether you’re a seasoned low-carb veteran or simply experimenting with healthier meals, this dish delivers restaurant-style flavor with clean ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Low-Carb Orange Beef and Broccoli recipe is perfect for:

• Keto and Low-Carb Lifestyles – With no added sugar and low net carbs, it’s completely keto-compliant.

• Quick Dinners – Ready in under 30 minutes from prep to plate.

• Budget-Friendly Meals – Uses simple, accessible ingredients.

• Meal Prepping – Stores well and reheats beautifully.

• Family-Friendly Flavor – The naturally sweet and savory sauce appeals to all palates.

Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a hungry household, this dish is sure to impress with minimal effort.

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Beef and Vegetables:

• 2 tbsp Olive Oil – Healthy fat for sautéing.

• 1½ pounds Stir Fry Steak Strips – Thinly sliced beef cooks fast and absorbs the sauce beautifully.

• Salt and Pepper to taste

• 3 cups Broccoli Florets – A fiber-rich, keto-approved veggie that adds crunch and nutrition.

• ½ Red Bell Pepper – Adds sweetness, color, and vitamin C.

• Chopped Green Onions – For a bright, fresh garnish.

For the Low-Carb Orange Sauce:

• 3 tbsp Orange Juice – Just enough to give flavor without excess carbs.

• ¼ cup Beef Broth – Adds umami depth and balances the citrus.

• 2 tsp Orange Zest – Intensifies the citrus aroma without adding sugar.

• 2 tsp Ginger Paste – Brings warm, spicy notes to the sauce.

• 2 tsp Minced Garlic – Adds robust flavor.

• 2 tbsp Soy Sauce – Traditional umami seasoning.

• 2 tsp Oyster Sauce – A keto-friendly splash of sweetness and salt.

• 1 tsp Sesame Oil – Enhances the Asian flavor profile with a nutty richness.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large nonstick or cast-iron skillet or wok

• Sharp knife and cutting board

• Mixing bowl

• Whisk

• Measuring spoons and cups

• Tongs or spatula

Optional:

• Citrus zester or microplane

• Garlic press (for fresh garlic)

• Ginger grater (if using fresh ginger)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients: orange juice, beef broth, orange zest, ginger paste, garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Set aside. The key here is balance—sweet, salty, umami, and citrus should all shine.

2. Cook the Steak

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat steak strips dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Add to the skillet in a single layer and sear on all sides until browned and nearly cooked through, about 4–5 minutes.

3. Add Vegetables

Stir in broccoli florets and sliced red bell pepper. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until they begin to soften, but remain crisp-tender. The broccoli will continue to cook in the sauce, so don’t overdo it.

4. Add the Sauce

Pour the prepared orange sauce over the beef and vegetables. Toss to coat everything evenly. Reduce heat slightly and simmer for 5–7 minutes, or until most of the sauce has been absorbed and the vegetables are cooked to your liking.

5. Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped green onions. Serve hot and enjoy immediately!

Tips for Success

• Slice beef thinly and evenly to ensure quick, even cooking.

• Don’t skip the zest! It adds a punch of flavor without extra carbs.

• Use fresh broccoli for the best texture. Frozen can be used but should be thawed and drained well.

• Cook in batches if your pan is small—crowding causes steaming instead of searing.

• Want more sauce? Double the sauce recipe and simmer slightly longer.

Recipe Variations & Swaps

Protein Swaps:

• Chicken or Shrimp – Works great with boneless chicken thighs or peeled shrimp.

• Tofu or Tempeh – For a vegetarian version, use firm tofu or tempeh and increase the soy sauce slightly for depth.

Vegetable Add-ins:

• Snap Peas, Zucchini, or Mushrooms – Add extra crunch and nutrition.

• Cauliflower or Bok Choy – For a change of pace.

Sauce Alternatives:

• Coconut Aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free and paleo-friendly version.

• Lemon Juice & Zest in place of orange for a tangy twist.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

This dish is ideal for meal prep and reheats well without losing flavor.

Refrigerator:

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer:

• Freeze individual portions in airtight containers or bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Reheat gently over medium heat until warmed through.

• Microwave: Heat in a covered dish for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway.

What to Serve With Low-Carb Orange Beef and Broccoli

While this dish can stand alone, here are some great keto-friendly pairings:

Side Dishes:

• Cauliflower Rice – A classic pairing that mimics takeout rice.

• Zucchini Noodles – Great for slurping up extra sauce.

• Cabbage Stir-Fry – Adds crunch and fiber.

Beverages:

• Green Tea or Jasmine Tea – Complements the Asian flavors.

• Sparkling Water with Citrus – Refreshing and sugar-free.

• Dry White Wine – Such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is orange juice keto-friendly?

Used in small amounts like this (3 tbsp across multiple servings), orange juice can fit into a keto lifestyle—especially when paired with low-carb ingredients and balanced with fiber.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cut vegetables in advance. The dish itself also stores well, making it perfect for meal prep.

Is this dish spicy?

No. The sauce is citrusy and savory but not spicy. Add crushed red pepper flakes or sliced chili for heat.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just be sure to cook the steak in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Final Thoughts: A Takeout Favorite Made Keto

Low-Carb Orange Beef and Broccoli is the ideal combination of bold flavor, crisp veggies, and melt-in-your-mouth steak—all coated in a luscious, guilt-free orange sauce. With its quick cook time and high nutrition factor, this dish will become a go-to in your low-carb recipe rotation.

Whether you’re trying to clean up your weeknight dinners or impress guests with something light yet satisfying, this recipe delivers on every front.