If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances tender beef, crisp broccoli, and silky noodles infused with a savory sauce, then this Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe is going to be your new favorite. The harmony between the fresh vegetables and flavorful beef, all tossed with soft lo mein noodles, makes it a comforting and satisfying meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. This recipe elevates a classic takeout favorite into something you can easily whip up at home, with every bite bursting with rich umami and vibrant textures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe lies in how simple, well-chosen ingredients come together to create a dish bursting with color, texture, and flavor. Each component plays a crucial role—whether it’s the tender beef providing protein, the broccoli adding crunch and freshness, or the sauce components layering complexity.
- 8 oz lo mein noodles: These soft, chewy noodles are the hearty foundation of the dish, perfect for soaking up all the delicious sauce.
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced: Lean and tender, this cut cooks quickly and adds a rich, meaty depth.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Bright green and crisp, broccoli adds wonderful texture and a healthy green pop.
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Offers slight sweetness and a vibrant splash of color to keep things lively.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic kick that wakes up the palate.
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil: Neutral oil perfect for high-heat stir-frying and keeping ingredients from sticking.
- 1 tbsp sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma and depth of flavor right at the end for that classic Asian-inspired finish.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: The salty backbone of the sauce, bringing savory umami richness.
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce: Provides a thick, slightly sweet and earthy layer of taste.
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce: Sweet and tangy, it balances the salty notes perfectly.
- 1 tsp grated ginger: Keeps the flavors bright and fresh with its gentle zing.
- 1 tsp cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce into a luscious glaze that clings to every ingredient.
- 1/4 cup water: Used to loosen the sauce slightly to just the right consistency.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that bring out the best in the beef and vegetables.
- Optional: green onions and sesame seeds for garnish: These add a lovely finishing touch and make the dish pop visually.
How to Make Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Begin by cooking the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked noodles provide the soft and slippery base that ties everything together. After cooking, drain them well and set aside to prevent clumping.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, grated ginger, cornstarch, and water. This flavorful blend is the secret weapon of the Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe, offering a balanced combination of salty, sweet, and savory tastes with just enough thickness to coat your ingredients evenly.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Season the thinly sliced beef with a pinch of salt and pepper, then quickly stir-fry until browned and cooked through. Removing the beef right after cooking prevents it from getting tough and allows you to build layers of flavor with the vegetables next.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the minced garlic, broccoli florets, and thinly sliced red bell pepper. Stir-fry these for about 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp and full of vibrant color, which adds a beautiful contrast and satisfying crunch.
Step 5: Combine Beef and Sauce
Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the vegetables, then pour in your prepared sauce mixture. Keep stirring regularly as the sauce begins to thicken, turning everything into a glossy, irresistible combination. This step binds all the ingredients with flavor and brings the dish to life.
Step 6: Add the Noodles and Finish
Finally, add the cooked lo mein noodles along with the sesame oil into the skillet. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so that the noodles soak up the sauce and the subtle nutty sesame oil aroma coats every bite. Heat through just until everything is nicely combined.
Step 7: Serve Warm and Garnish
Serve your Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe piping hot. If you like, sprinkle some sliced green onions and a scatter of sesame seeds on top to bring an extra layer of freshness and crunch that looks as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe
Garnishes
Adding green onions and toasted sesame seeds as garnishes elevates the dish visually and texturally. The green onions provide a sharp, fresh contrast while the sesame seeds add a subtle nutty crunch that complements the sesame oil in the noodles beautifully.
Side Dishes
Serve this Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe with simple sides like steamed dumplings, a light cucumber salad, or even some crunchy spring rolls. These options complement the main dish without overwhelming the rich, savory sauce and tender textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the lo mein in individual lettuce cups or in small bowls lined with edible flowers or extra fresh herbs. This adds a fresh pop and makes the presentation perfect for sharing at casual dinners or celebrations with friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from the Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The noodles tend to soak up the sauce over time, so a quick toss with a splash of water or extra soy sauce during reheating helps bring back that just-cooked freshness.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to one month. To freeze, let it cool completely, place it in a freezer-safe container, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently to preserve the texture of both the beef and the vegetables.
Reheating
Reheat your Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe in a skillet over medium heat, stirring often to prevent sticking. Adding a tablespoon of water or broth helps loosen the sauce and rejuvenates the noodles. Avoid the microwave if possible for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use another cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin is tender and cooks quickly, flank steak or ribeye can also work well if sliced thinly across the grain. Just adjust cooking times slightly to avoid overcooking.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, simply swap the beef for firm tofu or tempeh and use vegetarian oyster sauce or more soy sauce in the sauce mix. Adding mushrooms can also boost the umami flavor.
Can I prepare any parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can slice the beef and chop the vegetables in advance, even up to a day ahead. The sauce mixture can be made early too, which helps streamline cooking when you’re ready.
What can I substitute for lo mein noodles?
If you don’t have lo mein noodles, spaghetti or other thin egg noodles work great. Just cook them according to package instructions and use as a perfect stand-in.
How do I keep the broccoli crisp when stir-frying?
Stir-fry broccoli on high heat for a short time, about 3-4 minutes, and avoid overcrowding the pan. This technique retains its crunch and bright color, making your Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe truly delicious.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about bringing the flavors of a classic takeout dish like this Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe into your own kitchen. It’s quick, packed with fresh ingredients, and so comforting. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own go-to weeknight dinner. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that makes every meal feel like a special occasion.
Print
Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
This Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein is a flavorful, satisfying stir-fry dish featuring tender slices of beef, crisp broccoli, and red bell pepper tossed with chewy lo mein noodles in a savory sauce made from soy, oyster, and hoisin sauces. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe combines classic Asian-inspired flavors with an easy-to-follow cooking process that delivers a delicious and balanced meal.
Ingredients
Noodles
- 8 oz lo mein noodles
Protein & Vegetables
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
Oils & Seasonings
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish
- Green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Cook the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions, ensuring they are tender but not overcooked. Drain the noodles well and set aside to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, grated ginger, cornstarch, and water. Stir until smooth and set aside for later use.
- Cook Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced beef, season with salt and pepper, and stir-fry until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
- Stir-Fry Vegetables: Using the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Add minced garlic, broccoli florets, and sliced red bell pepper. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp.
- Add Beef and Sauce: Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the ingredients and continue cooking, stirring regularly, until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Toss with Noodles: Add the cooked lo mein noodles and sesame oil to the skillet. Toss everything together thoroughly to combine, letting the noodles absorb the flavors and heat through for another 1-2 minutes.
- Serve: Transfer the lo mein to serving plates or bowls. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Beef sirloin can be substituted with flank steak or ribeye if preferred.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce alternatives.
- Adjust the thickness of the sauce by varying the amount of cornstarch and water.
- Add other vegetables like carrots or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
- Make sure not to overcook the broccoli to keep its bright color and crunch.
