If you have a craving for a delicious, savory meal that’s both comforting and packed with vibrant veggies, then this Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe is your go-to solution. It’s a perfect harmony of tender beef, crunchy broccoli, and silky noodles all coated in a rich, flavorful sauce that’s easy to whip up in just about 25 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just want something satisfying after a long day, this recipe hits all the right notes with its perfect balance of sweet, salty, and umami goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the dish so irresistible. From the tender beef to the crisp broccoli, every component shines in perfect harmony.
- Soy sauce (1/4 cup, low sodium preferred): Adds a deep umami richness and saltiness that forms the backbone of the sauce.
- Oyster sauce (2 tablespoons): Brings a slightly sweet, savory, and velvety depth enhancing the flavor complexity.
- Hoisin sauce (1 tablespoon): Gives a subtle sweet and tangy note that brightens the overall dish.
- Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): Infuses a wonderfully nutty aroma and finish.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Perfect for thickening the sauce so it clings beautifully to the noodles and beef.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon, optional): Adds a gentle acidity to balance the sweetness if you like a touch of zing.
- Sugar or honey (1 teaspoon, optional): Enhances the caramelized notes and balances savory flavors.
- Lo mein noodles (8 ounces) or spaghetti substitute: The star carbohydrate, soft, chewy, and perfect to soak up the sauce.
- Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon) or neutral oil: For stir-frying without overpowering the dish.
- Beef (1/2 pound, flank steak, sirloin, or skirt steak, thinly sliced): Provides tender, flavorful protein that cooks quickly.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups): Adds fresh crunch and vibrant green color for balance and nutrition.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Offers irresistible fragrance and depth of flavor.
- Grated ginger (1 teaspoon): Brings a zesty warmth to complement the savory sauce.
- Sliced onion or green onions (1/4 cup): Adds mild sweetness and color contrast.
- Sesame seeds: For garnish that adds a subtle crunch and toasty flavor.
- Sliced green onions: Fresh final touch to brighten the dish visually and taste-wise.
How to Make Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by gathering and prepping everything: slice your beef thinly against the grain to keep it tender, chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets, mince the garlic, grate the ginger, and slice your onions. Cooking becomes easier and faster when all your ingredients are ready before the heat goes on.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Boil your lo mein noodles or spaghetti substitute according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain them well and toss with a little sesame oil to prevent sticking while you finish the rest of the dish.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, rice vinegar (if using), and sugar or honey (if desired). This sauce mixture is the heart of the dish, bringing all the components together with its perfect balance of flavors and luscious texture.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Beef and Vegetables
Heat your vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef slices and stir-fry until browned and just cooked through. Remove the beef and set aside. Next, toss in the garlic, ginger, and onions, sautéing until fragrant. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry until just vibrant and crisp-tender.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Return the beef to the pan, then pour in the sauce mixture. Stir everything together to coat well and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens nicely. Finally, add the cooked noodles, toss well, and heat through so every bite is coated with that glossy sauce everyone loves.
How to Serve Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions over your Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe just before serving. They add a gorgeous finishing touch, a bit of crunch, and an extra pop of freshness that really elevates the dish.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully satisfying on its own, but if you want to create a fuller meal, serve it alongside simple steamed dumplings or a light cucumber salad. Both add contrasting textures and flavors without competing with the main attraction.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving your Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe in lettuce cups, turning it into a hand-held delight. Alternatively, plate it in a shallow bowl topped with a fried egg for brunch vibes or a drizzle of chili oil if you enjoy a spicy kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next meal taste just as fantastic.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish but it’s best to do so without the noodles, as they may get mushy after thawing. Store the beef and broccoli mixture separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, then thaw before reheating and adding freshly cooked noodles.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Avoid microwaving if possible for the best texture, but it works fine in a pinch.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe?
Absolutely! While traditional lo mein noodles work best for that signature chewiness, you can substitute spaghetti, thin egg noodles, or even rice noodles based on your preference or what’s available.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap out beef for tofu or tempeh and use vegetable-based stir-fry sauces. Add plenty of colorful veggies to keep the dish hearty and delicious.
How do I get the beef tender and flavorful?
Thinly slicing the beef against the grain helps it stay tender. Marinating briefly with some soy sauce or cornstarch can also improve texture and enhance flavor.
What can I use if I don’t have oyster sauce?
If oyster sauce isn’t on hand, a mix of soy sauce and a bit of hoisin sauce can mimic the sweet-savory profile, or use vegetarian mushroom-based oyster sauce alternatives.
Can I prepare any part of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can chop your veggies and slice the beef earlier in the day or even the night before. Mixing the sauce ahead also saves time, making the cooking process seamless and stress-free.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a homemade Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe that delivers comfort, bold flavor, and quick prep all at once. It’s the kind of meal you want to keep in your regular rotation because it’s easy, satisfying, and guaranteed to impress anyone at the dinner table. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Print
Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein is a quick and flavorful Asian-inspired stir-fry dish featuring tender sliced beef, crisp broccoli florets, and chewy lo mein noodles tossed in a savory sauce made from soy, oyster, and hoisin sauces with a touch of sesame oil and garlic. This recipe comes together in 25 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that combines delicious flavors and balanced textures in one satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Sauce
- 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)
Main Ingredients
- 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
Garnish
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
Instructions
- Prepare the Noodles: Cook the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, tossing with a little sesame oil to prevent sticking.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, rice vinegar (if using), and sugar or honey until smooth. Set aside.
- Cook the Beef: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
- Stir-Fry Vegetables: In the same pan, add a small amount of oil if needed. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced onions or green onions. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Then add the broccoli florets and continue to stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender. - Combine Beef and Sauce: Return the beef to the pan with the vegetables. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir everything together, cooking for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens and the beef is cooked through.
- Add Noodles: Add the cooked noodles to the pan and toss well to coat everything evenly with the sauce.
- Serve: Remove from heat. Garnish with a sprinkling of sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein!
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute beef with firm tofu or extra vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers.
- Use low sodium soy sauce to reduce salt content.
- If lo mein noodles are unavailable, spaghetti or other egg noodles can be used as substitutes.
- To add heat, include chili flakes or a few drops of chili oil when stir-frying.
- Ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved in the sauce to avoid lumps.
