If you’re craving that perfect blend of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and delightfully saucy noodles, look no further than this Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe. It’s a fantastic way to bring restaurant-quality flavors right into your own kitchen with simple ingredients, quick cooking, and a vibrant mix of textures and colors. Whether you’re new to making Asian-inspired dishes or just want an easy, delicious weeknight dinner, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to turn to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With so few ingredients, this Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe proves that simplicity can be spectacular. Each component brings something essential: the noodles provide that chewy, comforting base; the beef adds rich, savory depth; broccoli gives fresh crunch and vibrant color; and the sauce ties all these elements together with a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and umami.
- 8 ounces lo mein noodles or spaghetti: These noodles soak up the sauce wonderfully and create that classic lo mein texture.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or vegetable oil): Adds a subtle nuttiness and helps quickly sear the beef for maximum flavor.
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain: Ensures tender, juicy beef bites that cook evenly and quickly.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Offers a crisp, refreshing contrast and a boost of vibrant green.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds a fragrant punch that elevates the entire dish.
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce: Brings saltiness and depth while helping keep the dish balanced.
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce: Adds richness and a hint of sweetness to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce: Offers a mild, tangy layer of complexity.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Sweetens and balances the savory flavors perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water (optional): This slurry thickens the sauce for a glossy finish.
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish): Fresh and bright, they add a lovely finishing touch.
- Sesame seeds (optional): Sprinkle for an extra nutty crunch and eye-catching presentation.
How to Make Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by preparing your noodles according to the package instructions. Whether you use lo mein noodles or spaghetti, make sure they’re cooked just al dente so they have that perfect chewiness without becoming mushy. Drain them well and set aside while you move on to the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, and the optional cornstarch slurry. This combination creates a savory, slightly sweet sauce that will coat every bite beautifully. Set the sauce aside so the flavors can meld while you cook.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced flank steak and cook it quickly for 2 to 3 minutes until just browned but still tender. Don’t overcrowd the pan here to keep the beef from steaming. Once cooked, remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Steam Broccoli
In the same skillet, add a splash more oil if needed and toss in the minced garlic. Let it sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt. Add the broccoli florets and pour in 2 tablespoons of water. Cover the pan and steam the broccoli for 2 to 3 minutes so it turns bright green and tender-crisp—this keeps that fresh bite that’s essential to the dish.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked beef to the pan, along with the noodles. Pour the prepared sauce over everything and toss well to coat each ingredient. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and everything to heat through. Your Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe is now ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe
Garnishes
The finishing touches really elevate this dish. Sprinkle sliced green onions over the top to add freshness and a subtle crunch. If you’re feeling fancy, toast a handful of sesame seeds and scatter those too for extra texture and a visually appealing look.
Side Dishes
This Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp spring rolls, light cucumber salad, or even simple steamed edamame. These sides complement the savory noodles without overpowering the dish’s distinct flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your lo mein in individual bowls garnished with fresh cilantro leaves or chopped peanuts for crunch. It also makes a stunning filling for lettuce wraps when you want a low-carb option that packs all the flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it to room temperature before sealing to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, portion the dish into freezer-safe containers and enjoy it within 1 to 2 months for the best flavor. Keep in mind that noodles can sometimes become a little softer after thawing, so consider slightly undercooking them initially if freezing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce and prevent drying out. Microwave reheating works too; just cover loosely and stir halfway through to heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal for its tenderness and quick cooking, sirloin or skirt steak can also work well. Just be sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain to keep it tender.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe?
Yes, you can swap the beef for tofu, tempeh, or even mushrooms to create a delicious vegetarian alternative. Use vegetable broth and mushroom-based sauces to keep the umami flavor vibrant.
Can I prepare this dish gluten-free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce substitutes, and check that your noodles are made from rice or other gluten-free grains. This way, you can enjoy the flavors safely.
How do I make the sauce spicier?
For a little kick, add a teaspoon of sriracha, chili garlic sauce, or red pepper flakes while whisking together the sauce. Adjust the heat to your preference for mild or fiery spice.
What’s the best way to slice the beef?
Freeze the flank steak for about 20 to 30 minutes beforehand; this firms it up and makes it easier to slice thinly and evenly against the grain, which ensures tenderness when cooked.
Final Thoughts
This Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe is an absolute winner for anyone who loves those rich, comforting Asian stir-fry flavors without fuss. It’s fast, flavorful, and flexible enough to suit your cravings any day of the week. Once you try it, this dish will feel like your go-to answer for that perfect homemade takeout night.
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: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
This Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein is a quick and delicious Asian-inspired stir-fry dish featuring tender slices of flank steak, crisp broccoli florets, and perfectly cooked noodles tossed in a savory hoisin and soy sauce blend. Ideal for a flavorful weeknight dinner that mimics your favorite takeout.
Ingredients
Noodles & 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 brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water (optional, for thickening)
Protein & Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Garnish
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Cook the noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, and optional cornstarch slurry. Set this sauce mixture aside for later use.
- Cook Beef: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced flank steak and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until just browned but not overcooked. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Broccoli: In the same pan, add a splash of oil if necessary and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the broccoli florets along with 2 tablespoons of water, then cover the pan to steam the broccoli for 2 to 3 minutes until it becomes bright green and tender-crisp.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked beef to the pan, add the drained noodles, and pour the prepared sauce over all ingredients. Toss thoroughly to combine and let cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and optional sesame seeds before serving warm.
Notes
- For added heat, stir in a teaspoon of sriracha or chili garlic sauce.
- You can use frozen broccoli if fresh isn’t available; just thaw and pat dry before cooking.
- Flank steak is recommended for its tenderness; substitute with sirloin or skirt steak if needed.
- Adjust the sweetness or saltiness by tweaking the amount of brown sugar or soy sauce according to taste.
