If you’re craving the ultimate weeknight comfort meal, Beef Lo Mein is about to become your new go-to. Tender marinated steak, springy noodles, and a medley of crisp vegetables all get tossed in a savory, umami-packed sauce that clings to every bite. This dish brings the takeout experience right to your kitchen, but with fresher flavors and that unbeatable satisfaction of making it yourself. Beef Lo Mein is a riot of color, a feast of textures, and—best of all—deliciously simple to whip up any night of the week!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Beef Lo Mein recipe has a special job to do, from building deep flavor to creating irresistible texture. The beauty of these simple yet essential pantry and fridge staples is how quickly they deliver a homemade dish that tastes just as good (if not better!) than your favorite takeout.
- Lo mein noodles or spaghetti: The foundation of the dish, these chewy noodles soak up all the flavor-packed sauce.
- Flank steak: Thinly sliced against the grain, this cut stays juicy and tender in a quick stir-fry.
- Soy sauce (divided): Provides a salty, savory base; using it in both marinade and sauce maximizes depth of flavor.
- Oyster sauce: Adds rich, slightly sweet umami, giving the finished noodles an unmistakable lo mein taste.
- Hoisin sauce: Infuses a hint of sweetness and tanginess, balancing out the saltiness perfectly.
- Sesame oil: Only a little is needed for toasty, aromatic warmth that makes the dish pop.
- Vegetable oil: High smoke point keeps everything sizzling without overpowering the flavors.
- Cornstarch: Helps tenderize the beef and thickens the sauce for that glossy finish.
- Water: Loosens the marinade to coat the steak evenly.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Essential for fragrance and gentle heat; don’t skip fresh garlic!
- Grated fresh ginger: Adds a zesty, peppery kick for extra brightness.
- Shredded carrots: Lend subtle sweetness and a burst of lively orange color.
- Snow peas or bell pepper strips: Crisp-tender and colorful, these veggies add crunch and freshness.
- Green onions (sliced): Finish the dish with sharpness and a classic lo mein look.
- Black pepper: Enhances everything with an earthy bite.
How to Make Beef Lo Mein
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by cooking your lo mein noodles or spaghetti according to the package directions. Aim for al dente—they’ll have more bite once stir-fried with the savory sauce. Once cooked, drain them, give a quick rinse under cool water to stop the cooking, and set aside. This step makes sure the noodles won’t get mushy later.
Step 2: Marinate the Beef
While the noodles cool, combine 1 tablespoon soy sauce, cornstarch, and water in a small bowl. Toss this mixture with your thinly sliced flank steak. The quick marinade not only flavors the steak but also ensures every bite is unbelievably tender. Let it marinate for 10 to 15 minutes—just enough time for the flavors to mingle!
Step 3: Make the Signature Sauce
In another bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. This mix is your secret weapon: salty, sweet, and loaded with umami, perfect for coating every strand of noodle and every bite of beef.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Beef
Heat your vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add the marinated beef in a single layer and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until browned outside, juicy inside. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed. Remove the browned beef and set aside so it doesn’t overcook.
Step 5: Cook the Veggies
In the same pan, toss in garlic, ginger, carrots, and snow peas or bell pepper strips. Stir-fry for about 2 to 3 minutes until the veggies are bright and crisp-tender—this quick toss keeps them vibrant and full of flavor.
Step 6: Finish and Combine
Return the beef to the pan, add in the cooked noodles, and pour your prepared sauce over everything. Toss everything together with enthusiasm to coat every noodle and veggie. Stir-fry for a minute or two more, until everything is heated through and harmoniously mixed. Just before serving, sprinkle sliced green onions over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Beef Lo Mein
Garnishes
For a classic finishing touch, I love to scatter extra sliced green onions right over the top of Beef Lo Mein. Try a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, or for a true restaurant flair, add a quick drizzle of sesame oil or a scatter of fresh cilantro. If you like a hint of heat, a few drops of chili oil or a side of sriracha elevates each plate instantly.
Side Dishes
Beef Lo Mein shines brilliantly on its own, but it also pairs well with sides. Think simple steamed edamame, a refreshing cucumber salad, or some crispy spring rolls for that must-have crunch. For a heartier meal, a small bowl of hot-and-sour soup or egg drop soup is the perfect complement.
Creative Ways to Present
Bring out your favorite big serving platter and pile the noodles high for family-style fun. Individual noodle bowls make everyone feel like they’re in their own cozy noodle shop. Or, for a party twist, serve Beef Lo Mein in little takeout boxes or on skewers for a playful, portable appetizer!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Beef Lo Mein holds up beautifully! Transfer cooled leftovers into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so it tastes even more incredible the next day.
Freezing
If you find yourself with extra, Beef Lo Mein can be frozen (though the noodles might soften slightly once thawed). Just place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, toss Beef Lo Mein in a hot skillet or wok with just a splash of water to loosen the sauce and revive that glossy sheen. A minute or two over medium-high heat is usually all it takes to bring everything back to life—just be sure not to overcook the beef.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef in Beef Lo Mein?
Absolutely! While flank steak is classic for its tenderness and beefy flavor, you can easily swap in sirloin, ribeye, or even thinly sliced chuck. Just be sure to slice against the grain for the most tender results.
Do I need a wok to make Beef Lo Mein?
Not at all! A large nonstick skillet works perfectly. The key is to get your pan nice and hot so you can stir-fry quickly—this gives you that coveted restaurant-style sear and texture.
Is there a vegetarian option for Beef Lo Mein?
Definitely. You can skip the beef and double up on veggies like broccoli, mushrooms, or bok choy, or swap in tofu for another protein-rich alternative. The sauce itself stays the same, so you won’t lose any flavor.
Can I make Beef Lo Mein gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute rice noodles or gluten-free spaghetti, and be sure to use gluten-free versions of soy, hoisin, and oyster sauces. The flavors and textures remain absolutely delicious.
How can I make Beef Lo Mein spicier?
If you love heat, try adding chili oil, a bit of crushed red pepper, or even fresh sliced chilies right into the stir-fry. You can also set sriracha on the table so everyone can adjust their own spice level.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about making Beef Lo Mein at home: it’s fast, fun, and the results are always mouthwateringly good. Gather your ingredients and give it a try—you’ll see just how irresistible this homemade classic can be. Treat yourself and your favorite people to a noodle night soon!
Print
Beef Lo Mein Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Beef Lo Mein recipe is a quick and flavorful stir-fry dish featuring tender beef, crisp vegetables, and savory noodles tossed in a delicious sauce. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal!
Ingredients
- 8 oz lo mein noodles or spaghetti
- 1/2 lb flank steak (thinly sliced against the grain)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (divided)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup snow peas or bell pepper strips
- 3 green onions (sliced)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Noodles:
Beef:
Marinade:
Sauce:
Vegetables:
Oil:
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Prepare noodles according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Marinate Beef: Mix 1 tbsp soy sauce with cornstarch and water. Toss with beef slices and let marinate for 10–15 mins.
- Prepare Sauce: Whisk together remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper.
- Stir-Fry Beef: In a hot skillet, stir-fry marinated beef for 2–3 mins until browned; set aside.
- Cook Vegetables: In the same pan, stir-fry garlic, ginger, carrots, and snow peas for 2–3 mins.
- Combine: Return beef to the pan with cooked noodles. Pour sauce over and toss to combine. Heat through.
- Serve: Top with sliced green onions before serving.
Notes
- Try broccoli, bok choy, or mushrooms for variety.
- Enhance with chili oil or sriracha for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Chinese-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
