Beef Lo Mein

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beef Lo Mein is a classic Chinese-American dish featuring tender strips of beef, crisp vegetables, and chewy egg noodles tossed in a savory, slightly sweet soy-based sauce. It’s quick to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner. This dish brings together the richness of beef and the umami depth of the sauce in every bite.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

egg noodles
flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
soy sauce
dark soy sauce
oyster sauce
hoisin sauce
sesame oil
garlic, minced
ginger, minced
brown sugar
cornstarch
vegetable oil
carrots, julienned
bell pepper, sliced
green onions
bean sprouts (optional)

directions

Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.

In a bowl, toss the sliced beef with a bit of soy sauce and cornstarch. Let it marinate for about 10-15 minutes.

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

Add the beef and stir-fry until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, then sauté the garlic and ginger until fragrant.

Add the carrots and bell peppers, stir-frying for 2-3 minutes until just tender.

Return the beef to the pan along with the cooked noodles.

Pour in a mixture of soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and brown sugar. Toss everything to combine and heat through.

Add green onions and bean sprouts (if using), stir well, and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead of beef for a different protein option.
Add mushrooms, snow peas, or baby bok choy for extra vegetables.
Spice it up with a dash of chili paste or red pepper flakes.
Try using whole wheat or rice noodles for a twist.

storage/reheating

Store Beef Lo Mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, stir-fry in a pan over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
You can also freeze it for up to 1 month—thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use spaghetti instead of egg noodles?
Yes, spaghetti can be a convenient substitute, though egg noodles provide a more authentic texture.

What cut of beef is best for Lo Mein?
Flank steak or sirloin are ideal due to their tenderness and quick cooking time.

Is this dish gluten-free?
Not by default, but you can use gluten-free noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, Beef Lo Mein stores well and reheats easily for meal prep.

Do I need a wok to make Lo Mein?
A wok is great, but a large skillet works just fine.

How do I keep the noodles from sticking?
After cooking, toss them with a little oil to prevent sticking before adding them to the stir-fry.

Can I double this recipe?
Yes, just make sure your pan is large enough or cook in batches.

Is Lo Mein the same as Chow Mein?
No, Lo Mein is tossed and softer, while Chow Mein is typically crispier from pan-frying the noodles.

How can I make it healthier?
Use less oil, add more veggies, and choose lean cuts of meat.

Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely, just make sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking.

Conclusion

Beef Lo Mein is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings takeout-style goodness right to your kitchen. With its savory sauce, tender beef, and vibrant vegetables, it’s a surefire hit for both busy weeknights and casual dinners. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it part of your regular meal rotation.

Print