Savor the bold flavors of tender beef intertwined with crisp-tender broccoli and perfectly sauced noodles in this Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein. From the very first forkful, you’ll be greeted by juicy slices of flank steak that soak up all the savory goodness of oyster and hoisin sauce, kissed with toasted sesame oil and uplifted by fragrant garlic and ginger. Every bite delivers a symphony of textures: silky lo mein noodles, crunchy vegetables, and succulent beef, all harmonizing in a mouthwatering stir-fry. Whether you opt for authentic lo mein noodles or trusty spaghetti, this dish transforms simple pantry staples into a restaurant-worthy masterpiece right in your own kitchen.
I love how approachable this recipe is—marked as “Beginner” on the difficulty scale, it’s perfect for anyone looking to dive into Asian cuisine without feeling overwhelmed. It takes just 30 minutes of prep, 15 minutes of cooking, and a brief 10-minute rest for the beef to soak up all that intense flavor, yielding a dinner that’s both quick and satisfying. Clocking in at around 450 calories per serving, it strikes the ideal balance of comfort food and mindful eating. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a laid-back lunch, this Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein will become your go-to for an easy dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste or flair.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN BEEF AND BROCCOLI LO MEIN
Before you unleash your inner stir-fry maestro, let’s take a closer look at each ingredient that builds the foundation of this dish. From the noodles that cradle every drop of sauce to the toppings that add visual pop and flavor complexity, each component plays a pivotal role in delivering this comforting, Asian-inspired meal.
- Lo mein noodles or spaghetti
These long, tender strands soak up the savory sauce, serving as the canvas for all the flavors. Authentic lo mein noodles bring a slightly chewy texture, while spaghetti makes for an easy swap if you don’t have Asian pantry staples on hand.
- Flank steak
When sliced thinly against the grain, flank steak offers tender, juicy bites that marry perfectly with the sauce. Marinating it briefly in soy sauce and cornstarch ensures each strip remains succulent and coated with flavor.
- Cornstarch
Acting as a light thickening agent, cornstarch creates a silky coating on the beef, sealing in its juices and helping it brown beautifully during the stir-fry.
- Soy sauce
This umami powerhouse contributes salty depth, coloring the beef and infusing it with that unmistakable Asian flair.
- Vegetable oil
A neutral, high-smoke-point oil that allows for quick, hot stir-frying without burning. Divided across the cooking process, it helps create the signature sear on both beef and veggies.
- Broccoli florets
Bright green and full of snap, broccoli adds vibrant color and a satisfying crunch while delivering a truckload of nutrients.
- Red bell pepper
Julienne-cut for quick cooking, this sweet pepper brings pops of color and a subtle fruity contrast to the savory elements.
- Garlic
Minced garlic injects a punch of aromatic intensity, elevating every layer of flavor in the dish.
- Ginger
Freshly grated for zingy warmth, ginger pairs beautifully with garlic to create an aromatic duo that defines stir-fry cooking.
- Oyster sauce
A thick, rich condiment that delivers deep, briny umami notes, tying together the beef, veggies, and noodles with its glossy sheen.
- Hoisin sauce
Offering a hint of sweetness and tang, hoisin balances the saltiness of soy and oyster sauce for a well-rounded sauce profile.
- Sesame oil
Added at the end for its toasty, nutty aroma, sesame oil transforms the sauce from simply savory to irresistibly fragrant.
- Green onions
Thinly sliced, these fresh scallions offer a crisp bite and vibrant color as a finishing garnish.
- Sesame seeds (optional)
A sprinkle of these tiny seeds adds crunch and visual appeal, making each serving look as good as it tastes.
HOW TO MAKE BEEF AND BROCCOLI LO MEIN
Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the simple, satisfying steps that turn these ingredients into a flavorful plate of Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein. From cooking your noodles to stir-frying beef and vegetables, it all comes together quickly in one skillet or wok.
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain well and set aside to prevent soggy texture later.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced flank steak, cornstarch, and soy sauce. Toss until every piece is lightly coated and let it marinate for at least 10 minutes to tenderize the beef and build flavor.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet or wok. Add the marinated beef strips and stir-fry until browned around the edges and cooked through, about 3–4 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
4. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the broccoli florets and red bell pepper. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes, just until the vegetables are crisp-tender and still vibrant.
5. Push the veggies to one side of the skillet, then add garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to let the garlic burn.
6. Return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir to combine with the veggies. Add the cooked noodles, gently tossing everything together.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Pour this mixture evenly over the beef, vegetables, and noodles.
8. Toss vigorously until every strand and strip is coated in that luscious sauce. Stir-fry for an extra 2 minutes to ensure the dish is heated through and flavors meld beautifully.
9. Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately while it’s piping hot.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR BEEF AND BROCCOLI LO MEIN
When your kitchen fills with sizzling sounds and that mouthwatering scent, you know it’s almost time to indulge. Serving Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein is not just about plating—it’s about creating an inviting experience at the table. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or indulging in a solo feast, these ideas will help you elevate every forkful and add little touches that impress.
- Family-style platter
Pile the lo mein onto a large, shallow serving plate and top with extra green onions and sesame seeds. Everyone can dig in and customize their portions, fostering an interactive mealtime vibe.
- Crispy wonton chips on the side
For a delightful crunch, serve a small bowl of homemade or store-bought wonton chips alongside. They’re perfect for scooping up any last bits of sauce or enjoying as a contrasting texture.
- Spicy dipping sauce
Whisk together chili oil, a splash of soy sauce, and a dash of rice vinegar for a bright dipping sauce. Individual ramekins allow guests to dial up the heat to their liking.
- Refreshing cucumber salad
Balance the rich flavors with a light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a pinch of sugar. Its crispness provides a cool counterpoint to the warm, savory lo mein.
HOW TO STORE BEEF AND BROCCOLI LO MEIN
Leftovers of Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein are just as delightful as the fresh-off-the-wok feast, provided you store them properly. To preserve its textures and flavors, it’s crucial to cool the dish correctly and package it well. Here are a few tried-and-true methods to keep your lo mein tasting like day one, even after a few days in the fridge or in the freezer for long-term enjoyment.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container
Allow the lo mein to cool to room temperature (no more than two hours from cooking), then transfer to a sealed container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days, ensuring minimal exposure to air to prevent moisture loss.
- Separate sauce for maximum freshness
If you’ve prepared extra sauce or prefer a saucier dish, store the sauce separately in a small jar. Combine just before reheating to keep noodles from becoming overly soft.
- Reheat gently on the stove
For best texture, reheat leftovers in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth and cover briefly to steam the noodles until warmed through. This method revives the stir-fry’s original bite and sheen.
- Freeze for longer storage
Freeze cooled lo mein in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat using the stove method above to restore flavor and texture.
CONCLUSION
That wraps up our flavorful journey through Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein, a dish that brings together tender slices of marinated flank steak, crisp-tender veggies, and perfectly sauced noodles in just about 30 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking time. From mastering the art of quick stir-frying to assembling a sauce that’s savory, sweet, and downright addictive, you now have everything you need to whip up this comforting dinner no matter your cooking experience. You can easily print this article and save it for later reference, whether you’re meal planning for a busy weeknight or craving a taste of home-cooked Asian comfort at lunchtime. Plus, keep an eye out for the FAQ section below, where you’ll find answers to common questions about substitutions, troubleshooting, and more tips to personalize your lo mein adventure.
If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Drop a comment, share your favorite tweaks, or let me know if you encountered any hiccups along the way. Your feedback helps me refine the guide and inspire new twists to this classic stir-fry. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or stepping into the kitchen for the first time, this Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein promises to deliver bold flavors, simple steps, and a satisfying meal that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Happy cooking!
Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein
Description
This Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein combines succulent flank steak, vibrant vegetables, and savory sauces tossed with noodles, creating a delectable dinner you'll crave.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Cook the lo mein noodles or spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
-
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced flank steak, cornstarch, and soy sauce. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.
-
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet or wok. Add the marinated beef strips and stir-fry until browned and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
-
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the broccoli florets and red bell pepper. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
-
Add the garlic and ginger to the vegetables, and stir-fry for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
-
Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet as well.
-
In a small bowl, whisk together the oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Pour the sauce over the beef, vegetables, and noodles in the skillet.
-
Toss everything together until well combined and the sauce evenly coats all ingredients. Stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
-
Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately.
Note
- You can add more vegetables like snap peas or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free noodles and ensure all sauces are gluten-free.
- Marinating the beef in advance helps tenderize it and infuse it with flavor; aim for at least 30 minutes if time permits.
- Feel free to substitute chicken or tofu for the beef for variety or dietary preferences.
