Beef Lo Mein Recipe

Beef Lo Mein is a flavorful and satisfying stir-fried noodle dish featuring tender strips of beef, fresh vegetables, and chewy lo mein noodles tossed in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. This easy homemade version is quicker and healthier than takeout, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Better than takeout – Fresh ingredients and bold flavors make this a restaurant-quality dish.
• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes!
• Customizable – Swap in your favorite vegetables or protein.
• Great for leftovers – Reheats well for meal prep.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Beef Marinade:

• Beef (flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye), thinly sliced
• Soy sauce
• Cornstarch
• Sesame oil

For the Lo Mein Sauce:

• Soy sauce
• Oyster sauce
• Hoisin sauce
• Brown sugar
• Sesame oil
• Garlic, minced
• Ginger, grated
• Sriracha or red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

For the Stir-Fry:

• Lo mein noodles (or spaghetti as a substitute)
• Carrots, julienned
• Bell peppers, sliced
• Broccoli florets
• Snow peas
• Green onions, chopped
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions

1. Marinate the beef: In a bowl, toss sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Let sit for 10-15 minutes.
2. Cook the noodles: Boil lo mein noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
3. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and sriracha (if using).
4. Stir-fry the beef: Heat oil in a wok or skillet over high heat. Cook the beef for 2-3 minutes until browned, then remove from the pan.
5. Stir-fry the vegetables: Add more oil if needed, then stir-fry carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas until tender-crisp.
6. Combine everything: Return the beef to the pan, add the cooked noodles, and pour in the sauce. Toss well to coat everything evenly.
7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Different protein – Swap beef for chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
• Spicy version – Add extra sriracha or chili oil.
• More veggies – Try mushrooms, baby corn, or spinach.
• Low-carb option – Use zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles instead of lo mein.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to refresh the noodles.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the noodles may become mushy.

FAQs

What’s the best cut of beef for lo mein?

Flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye work best because they are tender and cook quickly.

Can I use dried spaghetti instead of lo mein noodles?

Yes! Cook spaghetti al dente and toss it with a little sesame oil to prevent sticking.

How do I make my beef tender?

Marinate it with soy sauce and cornstarch (a technique called “velveting”) to keep it tender and juicy.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and a gluten-free noodle alternative.

What’s the difference between lo mein and chow mein?

Lo mein uses soft, stir-fried noodles, while chow mein features crispy fried noodles.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare everything and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.

What oil should I use for stir-frying?

Use a high-smoke-point oil like vegetable, avocado, or peanut oil.

Can I make this without oyster sauce?

Yes! Substitute with extra soy sauce or hoisin sauce for a similar depth of flavor.

What side dishes pair well with beef lo mein?

Try egg rolls, dumplings, or a light Asian cucumber salad.

How do I keep the noodles from sticking together?

Toss them with a little sesame oil after draining to prevent clumping.

Conclusion

Beef Lo Mein is an easy, delicious, and customizable stir-fry dish that’s perfect for a homemade takeout night. With tender beef, crisp veggies, and a flavorful sauce, this quick meal will become a new favorite. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-style dish at home!

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