introduction
This Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein is a quick, tasty meal you can make at home. It has soft noodles, tender beef, and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. If you like rich pasta bakes, you might also enjoy this chicken and broccoli alfredo bake for another easy dinner idea.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe when you want a fast dinner that feels like takeout. It uses simple ingredients you may already have. It comes together in one pan and on the table fast. If you want other one-pan ideas, try the creamy one-pot beef and cheddar ranch pasta.
how to make Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein
This recipe is easy. First, mix the sauce, cook the noodles, then stir-fry the beef and veggies. Finish by tossing everything with the sauce so the flavors coat the noodles.
For other beef cooking ideas, see this filet mignon with shrimp and lobster cream for inspiration on searing and resting steak.
Ingredients :
1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred), 2 tablespoons oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional), 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (optional), 8 ounces lo mein noodles (or spaghetti substitute), 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or neutral oil like canola), 1/2 pound beef (flank steak, sirloin, or skirt steak), thinly sliced, 2 cups broccoli florets, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 teaspoon grated ginger, 1/4 cup sliced onion or green onions, Sesame seeds, for garnish, Sliced green onions, for garnish
Directions :
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, rice vinegar (if using), and sugar or honey (if using). Set sauce mixture aside to allow cornstarch to dissolve and flavors to meld.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking, then set aside.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove beef from pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, add broccoli florets, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced onions. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until broccoli is tender-crisp and onions have softened slightly.
Return the beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the cooked noodles and pour the prepared sauce over everything. Toss well to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.
Transfer the Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein to serving plates. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for freshness and a little crunch. Serve immediately while hot.
how to serve Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein
Serve hot from the pan for best texture. Add extra sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top. You can serve it with simple sides like a light salad or steamed dumplings. For a casual bowl meal idea, see this ground beef and ramen noodles recipe for a similar no-fuss serving style.
how to store Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein
Cool the lo mein to room temperature before storing. Put it in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months, but texture may change on thawing.
tips to make Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein
- Slice the beef thin across the grain for tender bites.
- Do not overcook the broccoli; keep it bright and crisp.
- Let the sauce sit a few minutes after mixing so the cornstarch dissolves.
- Use high heat when stir-frying to get a good sear on the beef.
- If you want hands-off cooking ideas, try a slow option like this slow cooker BBQ chicken sandwich for another easy meal.
variation (if any)
- Make it with chicken or tofu instead of beef.
- Add sliced bell peppers or carrots for more color and crunch.
- Use hoisin-free sauce for a lighter taste, or add chili flakes for heat.
- Swap lo mein noodles for spaghetti in a pinch.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other noodles?
A: Yes. Spaghetti or chow mein noodles work. Cook until al dente.
Q: How do I make the beef more tender?
A: Slice thin and cut across the grain. Marinate briefly in a little soy sauce and cornstarch if you have time.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes. Use firm tofu or extra vegetables and replace oyster sauce with a vegetarian stir-fry sauce.
Q: Do I need to rinse the noodles?
A: Rinsing stops the cooking and keeps noodles from sticking. It helps when you stir-fry later.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes. Use a larger pan or cook in batches to keep high heat and good sear.
Conclusion
If you want a quick, similar garlic-forward version, check the The Recipe Critic’s 20-minute Garlic Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein for more tips and a fast variation.
Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein
Ingredients
Method
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, rice vinegar (if using), and sugar or honey (if using). Set sauce mixture aside.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking, then set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove beef from pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add broccoli florets, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced onions. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until broccoli is tender-crisp and onions have softened slightly.
- Return the beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the cooked noodles and pour the prepared sauce over everything. Toss well to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.
- Transfer the Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein to serving plates. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for freshness and a little crunch. Serve immediately while hot.