Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe
If you’ve ever craved that perfect combination of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and silky noodles all tossed in a savory, slightly sweet sauce, then get ready to fall in love with this Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe. It’s a fabulous homemade take on a beloved takeout classic that’s surprisingly simple to make, packed with flavor, and perfectly balanced in texture. Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or a comfort meal to impress friends, this dish brings together the best of savory sauces, vibrant greens, and satisfying noodles in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To whip up this Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe, the ingredients are straightforward but each plays an essential role in creating those layers of flavor and texture. From the tender flank steak to the fresh broccoli and the rich sauce components, every element works together for a truly delicious experience.
- 8 ounces lo mein noodles or spaghetti: These noodles provide the perfect soft and slightly chewy base to soak up all the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: A neutral oil that’s great for high-heat stir-frying without overpowering the flavors.
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain: This cut cooks quickly and stays tender, adding hearty protein to the dish.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant green color that complements the beef beautifully.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth and that irresistible savory kick.
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce: The salty backbone that ties the sauce together without overwhelming the palate.
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce: Adds a subtle sweetness and umami boost that elevates the overall flavor.
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce: Brings a complex, slightly tangy richness that rounds out the sauce perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Packed with nutty aroma, it gives the dish a beautiful finishing flavor.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch: Helps to thicken the sauce so it clings deliciously to every strand of noodle and piece of beef.
- 1/4 cup water: Used to create the right sauce consistency and steam the broccoli just right.
- Optional: sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish: These add a pop of freshness and a delightful crunch to finish the dish.
How to Make Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the noodles
Begin by cooking your lo mein noodles or spaghetti according to the package instructions. This step is key because perfectly cooked noodles provide the foundation of the dish. Drain them and set aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Mix the flavorful sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water. This combination creates the rich, glossy sauce that gives the Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe its signature savory-sweet flavor and irresistible sheen.
Step 3: Cook the beef
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced flank steak and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until it’s browned but still tender. Don’t rush this step—cooking the beef against the grain helps it stay juicy and easy to bite. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside for now.
Step 4: Steam the broccoli and sauté the garlic
Using the same skillet, add the broccoli florets along with a splash of water. Cover and let the broccoli steam for 2 to 3 minutes until crisp-tender—this keeps it bright and fresh with just the right bite. Then toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant; garlic is the secret weapon here that amps up the entire dish!
Step 5: Bring it all together
Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the broccoli, then add the drained noodles and pour the sauce mixture over everything. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat every strand of noodle and bite of beef and broccoli with the luscious sauce. Let it cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce thickens to perfection.
How to Serve Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t skip the garnishes! A sprinkle of sliced green onions adds a fresh, slightly pungent bite, while toasted sesame seeds provide just the right hint of nutty crunch. These simple toppings truly lift the look and flavor of the dish, making it feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe is fantastic on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, try serving it with a light cucumber salad or some steamed dumplings. A side of pickled vegetables can also brighten the plate with a tangy contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your lo mein inside hollowed-out bell peppers or over a bed of lightly fried rice cakes. You can also sprinkle crushed peanuts or drizzle a little chili oil on top for an exciting flavor punch. Presentation is a playful way to make this dish your own!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe (and it’s hard not to), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, though the noodles may absorb more sauce as they rest.
Freezing
While fresh is best, you can freeze the cooked lo mein for up to a month. Cool it completely, then pack it tightly in a freezer-safe container or bag. Keep in mind the texture of noodles and broccoli might change slightly once thawed, but the flavors will remain delicious.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce. Stir frequently until heated through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can leave noodles inconsistent in texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe?
Absolutely! While lo mein noodles are traditional, spaghetti or linguine work great in a pinch. Just be sure to cook them al dente to keep a nice bite.
Is flank steak the only beef that works?
Flank steak is ideal because it cooks quickly and stays tender when sliced thinly against the grain. You can also try skirt steak or sirloin if you prefer.
How can I add more vegetables?
Feel free to toss in sliced bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, or mushrooms along with the broccoli. Extra veggies make the dish even more colorful and nutritious.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the beef with firm tofu or tempeh and use vegetable-based oyster sauce or skip the oyster sauce altogether. Load up on veggies to keep it hearty.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Traditional soy sauce contains gluten, but you can use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative to make the Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe is a treasure in the world of quick and satisfying dinners—full of bold flavors, textures that delight, and colors that please the eye. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend treat. So grab the ingredients and dive into making your own amazing bowl of goodness—you won’t regret it!
Print
Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein is a classic Asian-inspired stir-fry featuring tender flank steak, crisp broccoli florets, and perfectly cooked lo mein noodles tossed in a savory homemade sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this flavorful dish combines the rich tastes of soy, oyster, and hoisin sauces with the aromatic hint of sesame oil. It’s an easy and satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Noodles and Sauce
- 8 ounces lo mein noodles or spaghetti
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
Beef and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Optional Garnishes
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Cook the lo mein noodles or spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water until smooth. This mixture will serve as the flavorful sauce to coat the noodles and beef.
- Cook Beef: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced flank steak and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until the beef is browned and just cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
- Steam Broccoli: In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets along with a splash of water. Cover the skillet and steam the broccoli for 2 to 3 minutes or until it becomes crisp-tender.
- Sauté Garlic: Remove the lid, add the minced garlic to the skillet with broccoli, and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Add the cooked noodles and pour the prepared sauce over everything. Toss well to evenly coat all ingredients and cook together for about 2 to 3 minutes until heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the beef and broccoli lo mein to serving plates. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot for a delicious and hearty meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken or shrimp for the beef for variety.
- For extra vegetables, add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas to the stir-fry.
- Lo mein noodles can be found in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores or replaced with spaghetti in a pinch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
