If you’ve ever craved the comforting flavors of Chinese takeout, but want something homemade, fresh, and customizable, this Easy Beef Chop Suey recipe is your new go-to. Packed with tender strips of beef, crisp fresh vegetables, and a savory sauce that brings everything together perfectly, this dish is a great way to enjoy a classic stir-fry at home — in under 30 minutes! Whether you’re new to cooking Asian-inspired dishes or a seasoned pro looking for a simple weekday meal, this beef chop suey recipe ticks all the boxes: fast, flavorful, and flexible.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Beef Chop Suey
Beef chop suey is a beloved dish in many Chinese-American homes — a stir-fry medley of meat and veggies that’s both hearty and healthy. The word “chop suey” means “mixed pieces,” and it really is just that — a delicious jumble of tender meat with whatever fresh vegetables you have on hand, all coated in a light, savory sauce. What makes this version special is how simple it is to make from scratch without any fancy ingredients.
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Quick Prep and Cook Time: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
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Customizable Veggies: Use your favorites or what’s fresh in season.
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Balanced Flavor: A perfect harmony of savory, slightly sweet, and tangy notes.
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Healthy and Filling: Lean beef plus nutrient-packed veggies.
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One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup and fuss!
Ingredients & Why They Matter
For the Sauce:
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1 cup beef broth: Adds a rich, meaty depth without heaviness.
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2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce: Brings salty, umami flavor; low sodium helps keep it heart-healthy.
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2 tablespoons oyster sauce: Gives a subtle sweetness and thickness to the sauce.
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2 tablespoons cornstarch: Key for thickening, giving the sauce a glossy finish.
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1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances the savory with a touch of sweetness.
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2 teaspoons rice wine vinegar: Adds a gentle tang that brightens the dish.
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1 teaspoon sesame oil: Imparts that signature nutty aroma and flavor.
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2 cloves garlic, minced: For aromatic pungency and depth.
For the Stir-Fry:
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1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Neutral oil for high heat cooking.
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1 lb beef (NY strip or sirloin), thinly sliced: Tender, flavorful cuts cook quickly and stay juicy.
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1 onion, sliced into wedges: Adds sweetness and texture.
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2 celery stalks, thinly sliced: Crunch and freshness.
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1 red bell pepper, sliced: Bright color and slight sweetness.
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2 carrots, peeled and thinly sliced: Earthy sweetness and texture.
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1 cup snow peas: Crisp, lightly sweet vegetable.
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1 cup water chestnuts, drained: Adds crunch and a refreshing contrast.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, and minced garlic. This mixture will create a thick, flavorful glaze that coats every bite of your stir-fry. Set aside and let the flavors meld while you prep the rest of the ingredients.
Step 2: Slice Your Beef and Vegetables
For best results, slice your beef thinly across the grain to ensure tenderness. Prepare all your vegetables — slicing onions, celery, peppers, and carrots — so they’re ready to go when you start cooking. Stir-frying happens quickly, so having everything prepped beforehand makes the process smooth and efficient.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips in small batches, spreading them out so they sear properly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove beef from the pan and set aside to prevent overcooking.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
In the same pan, add the sliced onion, celery, bell pepper, and carrots. Stir-fry for about 4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. Add the snow peas and water chestnuts during the last minute of cooking to maintain their crunch.
Step 5: Combine Beef and Sauce
Return the beef to the pan with the vegetables. Pour your pre-mixed sauce over everything. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cornstarch to thicken the sauce and coat the ingredients evenly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the sauce is glossy and thickened, remove the pan from heat. Serve immediately over steamed white rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Prep Time, Cooking Time & Calories
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
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Calories: Approximately 405 kcal per serving (based on 4 servings)
Tips for the Best Beef Chop Suey
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Slice Beef Thin & Against the Grain: Ensures each bite is tender, not chewy.
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High Heat Cooking: Use a wok or large skillet on high heat for a quick stir-fry that locks in flavor.
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Prep Everything First: Have all ingredients sliced and sauce mixed before turning on the stove.
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Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in broccoli, mushrooms, bok choy, or snap peas.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook beef in batches if necessary to get a good sear.
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Adjust Sauce Thickness: If sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth; too thin, cook a bit longer.
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Add Heat If Desired: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili garlic sauce adds a nice kick.
Variations to Try
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Chicken Chop Suey: Substitute beef with thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs.
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Vegetarian Version: Replace beef with tofu or extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.
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Noodle Bowl: Toss the chop suey with cooked lo mein or rice noodles.
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Spicy Kick: Add fresh chopped chili or sriracha for heat.
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Crispy Toppings: Garnish with toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions for texture.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Why Make This Recipe at Home?
Ordering takeout is easy, but homemade chop suey lets you control quality, freshness, and flavor. Plus, cooking at home is healthier — you avoid excess sodium, preservatives, and can customize everything to your taste. This recipe is a perfect introduction to Asian-inspired cooking with simple pantry staples and fresh veggies.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Beef Chop Suey recipe is a fantastic way to bring bright, bold, and wholesome flavors to your table with minimal effort. It’s adaptable, quick, and delicious — a sure win for busy weeknights or whenever you want a satisfying homemade meal. Pair with steamed rice, and you’ve got a complete and nourishing dinner that everyone will love.
Try this recipe today and savor the perfect balance of tender beef, crisp vegetables, and savory sauce in every bite!