If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances tender beef, vibrant broccoli, and silky noodles tossed in a flavorful sauce, this Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines beloved classic Asian-inspired flavors with the comfort of a quick and easy stir-fry that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends with a homemade takeout-style meal, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver that crave-worthy, saucy goodness with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe relies on simple yet essential ingredients, each adding its own magic to the dish. From the savory mix of sauces to the fresh crunch of broccoli, every element plays a role in creating that perfect harmony of textures and flavors.
- Soy sauce (1/4 cup): Choose low sodium to control saltiness while adding that distinctive umami punch.
- Oyster sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds depth and a subtle sweetness that makes the sauce irresistible.
- Hoisin sauce (1 tablespoon): Brings complexity with a slightly sweet and tangy flavor.
- Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): Provides a nutty aroma that ties the whole dish together.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Helps thicken the sauce, giving it that luscious coating on noodles and beef.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon, optional): Adds brightness and balance, cutting through the sauce’s richness.
- Sugar or honey (1 teaspoon, optional): Rounds out the flavors with a touch of sweetness.
- Lo mein noodles (8 ounces): Use traditional or spaghetti as a great substitute if needed.
- Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon): Neutral oil perfect for stir-frying without overpowering flavors.
- Beef (1/2 pound): Thinly sliced flank steak, sirloin, or skirt steak for tender, juicy bites.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups): Fresh and crisp, adding vibrant green color and crunch.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Essential aromatic that infuses the dish with warmth.
- Ginger (1 teaspoon, grated): Adds a gentle spice and freshness.
- Sliced onion or green onions (1/4 cup): For subtle sweetness and oniony flavor pops.
- Sesame seeds: Perfect for garnish and extra texture.
- Sliced green onions: Adds a fresh finish and pop of color.
How to Make Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, rice vinegar, and sugar or honey in a bowl until fully combined. This sauce blend is the soul of the dish, providing that rich, glossy coating that will cling beautifully to every noodle and piece of beef. Set aside while you prepare the rest.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking. Toss a little sesame oil over them for extra flavor and keep them tossed aside while you stir-fry the beef and broccoli.
Step 3: Sear the Beef
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced beef in a single layer and sauté until browned and just cooked through, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside to keep its tender texture intact.
Step 4: Stir-Fry Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a touch more oil if needed and toss in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced onion or green onions. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the broccoli florets and cook until bright green and tender-crisp, about 4 to 5 minutes. This quick cooking keeps the broccoli vibrant and satisfying to bite.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the beef to the wok with the broccoli. Give the prepared sauce a quick stir and pour it over the mixture. Toss well to coat everything evenly. Add the cooked noodles last and gently fold them in, warming through for 1 to 2 minutes so the noodles absorb that glorious sauce. Your Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe is now ready to serve.
How to Serve Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions generously over the top. These simple garnishes add a delightful crunch and fresh, herbal note that lift the dish beyond just delicious to absolutely crave-worthy.
Side Dishes
Keep it light with a crisp Asian cucumber salad or steamed dumplings on the side for a more substantial meal. For a little extra indulgence, egg rolls or crispy wontons complement the textures and flavors wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe in individual lettuce cups or even inside large portobello mushroom caps. Not only does this add a unique presentation, but it also introduces new textures and makes the dish feel special and festive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, making for a convenient next-day meal that still tastes fantastic.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked lo mein, but keep in mind that the noodles might become a bit softer when thawed. To freeze, place portions in airtight containers or freezer bags and use within one month for best quality.
Reheating
For reheating, gently warm the lo mein in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce and prevent dryness. Alternatively, use the microwave but stir halfway through to heat evenly and keep everything saucy and tender.
FAQs
Can I substitute the beef with chicken or tofu?
Absolutely! Both chicken and firm tofu work wonderfully in this Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe. Just adjust cooking times accordingly—chicken until cooked through and tofu until golden and heated through.
What if I don’t have lo mein noodles?
No worries! Spaghetti or linguine can be used as a substitute for lo mein noodles. Just cook them according to package instructions and toss with a little oil to prevent sticking before combining with the sauce and other ingredients.
Is it necessary to use oyster sauce?
Oyster sauce adds a unique depth and umami flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can use hoisin sauce only or a little soy sauce and mushroom sauce as a substitute to keep that savory element intact.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure oyster and hoisin sauces are gluten-free brands. Also, choose gluten-free noodles for a perfect gluten-free Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe experience.
How do I get the beef tender and flavorful?
Thinly slicing the beef against the grain and cooking it quickly over high heat helps keep it tender. Marinating briefly in a small amount of the sauce mixture can also boost flavor and tenderness.
Final Thoughts
This Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe is a delightful way to bring delicious, comforting Asian-inspired flavors right into your kitchen with ease and speed. Its vibrant colors, balanced sauce, and satisfying textures make it a reliable favorite that you’ll want to return to time and again. Give it a try—you’re going to love how simple ingredients and a little love turn into something spectacular on your plate!
Print
Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
This Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein is a quick and flavorful Asian-inspired stir-fry dish featuring tender slices of beef, crisp broccoli florets, and perfectly cooked lo mein noodles tossed in a savory homemade sauce. With a balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, it makes a satisfying weeknight dinner that can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Sauce 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)
Lo Mein Noodles
- 8 ounces lo mein noodles (or spaghetti substitute)
Main Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Prepare 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 using). Set sauce mixture aside to allow cornstarch to dissolve and flavors to meld.
- Cook the Noodles: 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.
- Sear the Beef: 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.
- Sauté Vegetables: 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.
- Combine Beef and Noodles: 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.
- Serve: 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.
Notes
- Use low sodium soy sauce to control saltiness in the dish.
- Rice vinegar and sugar/honey are optional but add a nice balance of acidity and sweetness.
- If you can’t find lo mein noodles, spaghetti or linguine can be a good substitute.
- For a spicier version, add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Make sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain for tenderness.
