P.F. Chang’s Beef with Broccoli Price: $23.00 | Calories: 700 Cal
The Beef with Broccoli entrée at P.F. Chang’s is a true classic for guests who enjoy a well-balanced, savory dish with fresh vegetables. This entrée features tender slices of flank steak wok-seared with crisp broccoli florets, tossed in a light garlic-soy sauce that delivers flavor without being too heavy. Served with steamed rice, this dish is a wholesome and satisfying choice for anyone who wants a flavorful, lighter beef option compared to richer entrées like Mongolian Beef.
Price & Calories
- Price: $23.00 (entrée portion)
- Calories: 700 Cal per serving
This entrée is one of the lighter beef options on the menu, making it perfect for guests who want a balance of protein and vegetables without excessive calories.
Ingredients in Beef with Broccoli
P.F. Chang’s prepares this dish using fresh, high-quality ingredients for maximum flavor:
- Flank steak, thinly sliced and wok-seared
- Fresh broccoli florets
- Garlic and ginger for aromatic depth
- Light soy-based sauce
- Steamed rice (served on the side)
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Let’s cut through the marketing and look at the data. For a restaurant entrée, Beef with Broccoli holds its own, but it requires a mindful approach.
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 700 Cal | – |
| Total Fat | 30 g | 38% |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g | 30% |
| Cholesterol | 80 mg | 27% |
| Sodium | 1400 mg | 61% |
| Carbohydrates | 55 g | 20% |
| Sugars | 15 g | – |
| Protein | 40 g | – |
Values are approximate and may vary depending on preparation.
The Good:
- Protein Powerhouse: With a solid 40 grams of protein, this dish is excellent for muscle repair and keeping you full and satisfied long after your meal. The flank steak is a leaner cut, which contributes to this.
- Manageable Calories: At 700 calories, it’s one of the lighter beef options on the menu, coming in significantly lower than the Mongolian Beef (910 cal) or the Teriyaki Beef Bowl (890 cal). This leaves room for a starter or a sensible side.
The Consideration:
- The Sodium Ceiling: The 1,400mg of sodium is the biggest hurdle. While lower than many of its counterparts (Mongolian Beef has 2,160mg), it still accounts for over half your daily recommended value. This is the primary area for customization.
Dietary & Allergen Notes
- Gluten-Free? Not by default due to the soy sauce. However, P.F. Chang’s is known for its gluten-free menu. Ask your server if they can prepare it with gluten-free soy sauce.
- Allergens: Contains Soy and Wheat. May contain traces of other allergens due to shared wok cooking.
- Keto/Low-Carb: While high in protein, the carb count (55g) comes mostly from the rice and sauce. For a low-carb version, ask for no rice and extra broccoli, and be mindful of the sugar in the sauce.
For diners with allergies, always confirm ingredients with the restaurant staff before ordering.
The Pro’s Ordering Strategy: 3 Hacks for a Healthier Meal
You don’t have to accept the dish as it’s listed. Here’s how to tailor it for optimal nutrition:
The Volume Eaters’ Move: Request extra broccoli. This adds volume, fiber, and nutrients for very few extra calories, helping you feel more satisfied and further improving the vegetable-to-meat ratio.
The Sodium Solution: Ask for the sauce on the side or for “light sauce.” This is the single most effective change you can make. It allows you to control the saltiness and can easily slash the sodium by 30-50%.
The Fiber Boost: Substitute brown rice for white rice. This simple swap adds valuable fiber, which aids digestion and helps regulate blood sugar, making the meal more filling and nutritionally complete.
Taste & Texture: What to Expect
- Flavor: A savory garlic-soy base that enhances both beef and broccoli.
- Texture: Tender slices of beef paired with crisp-tender broccoli.
- Experience: A balanced entrée that combines protein and vegetables for a classic, comforting flavor.
If you enjoy this dish, you may also like Chicken with Broccoli for a leaner, poultry-based version, or Pepper Steak for a slightly bolder, pepper-forward flavor.
Smarter Ordering Tips
- Keep it lighter: At 700 calories, this entrée is one of the lighter beef options on the menu. Pair it with brown rice or steamed vegetables for an even healthier balance.
- Add variety: Consider ordering alongside Kung Pao Chicken or Crispy Honey Shrimp for a more dynamic table.
- Perfect to share: Like many P.F. Chang’s entrées, this dish is ideal for family-style dining. Sharing with another entrée balances flavors and calories.
FAQs: P.F. Chang’s Beef with Broccoli
Is P.F. Chang’s Beef with Broccoli actually healthy?
“Healthy” is relative. In the context of a restaurant meal, it’s a strong, balanced choice. It provides high-quality protein and a vegetable serving in a calorie range that fits into many diets. Its main drawback is sodium, which can be mitigated with the ordering hacks above.
What’s the best thing to pair with it?
Skip another heavy entrée. Instead, pair it with a starter that won’t blow your calorie budget. The Hot & Sour Soup or a Small Green Salad with ginger dressing on the side are perfect complements.
Is the portion size realistic?
Yes. Unlike some massive restaurant portions, this one is satisfying without being overwhelming. Many diners find they can enjoy a full portion without feeling overly stuffed, especially if they’ve applied the “extra broccoli” hack.
Is Beef with Broccoli spicy?
No, this entrée is not spicy. It’s a mild and savory dish, making it great for all taste preferences.
What’s the main difference between Beef with Broccoli and Pepper Steak?
While Pepper Steak highlights bell peppers and a savory sauce, Beef with Broccoli focuses on crisp broccoli and a garlic-soy balance.
Conclusion
The Beef with Broccoli entrée at P.F. Chang’s is a timeless favorite, offering a flavorful mix of tender beef and crisp vegetables in a light soy-based sauce. At just 700 calories, it’s one of the lighter beef entrées, making it a great option for guests who want a balance of taste, nutrition, and satisfaction.
If you’re looking for a bolder flavor, the Mongolian Beef is an excellent choice, while those preferring poultry can enjoy the Chicken with Broccoli. For plant-based diners, Mongolian Tofu offers a great alternative with the same rich flavors.
You should order it if: You want a high-protein, satisfying meal and are willing to use simple customizations (light sauce, brown rice) to maximize its nutritional value. It’s perfect for athletes, anyone watching their weight, or those simply seeking a lighter yet flavorful option.
Consider an alternative if: You have severe hypertension and are unable to customize the sodium content, or if you strictly avoid gluten and the location cannot accommodate the substitution.
