Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe

There’s something endlessly comforting about Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein — it’s that magical combination of tender beef, crunchy broccoli, and silky noodles all coming together in a glossy, savory sauce. This dish is the ultimate weeknight hero, delivering on flavor, texture, and convenience. Whether you’re new to Asian-inspired stir-fries or already obsessed, this Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein will have you twirling your fork with delight and going back for seconds (and maybe thirds).

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein is deliciously straightforward, with each ingredient playing a meaningful role in building mouthwatering flavor and the perfect texture. Choosing fresh, quality ingredients really lets every element shine, from the tender steak to the springy noodles and sweet, vibrant broccoli.

• Lo mein noodles or spaghetti (8 ounces): Provides that signature chewy, satisfying base; spaghetti works great if lo mein noodles aren’t handy!
• Flank steak (1 pound, thinly sliced against the grain): Choosing flank and slicing it properly ensures melt-in-your-mouth beef in every bite.
• Soy sauce (2 tablespoons, for marinating): Infuses the beef with a punch of umami right from the start.
• Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Helps the steak stay juicy and tender during the quick stir-fry.
• Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Perfect for high heat and essential for getting that lovely sear.
• Broccoli florets (3 cups): Adds crunch, color, and a burst of freshness.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Intensifies the savory notes and rounds out the aroma.
• Low-sodium soy sauce (1/4 cup, for sauce): Balances the other sauce flavors without overpowering saltiness.
• Oyster sauce (2 tablespoons): Lends depth and a mild, earthy sweetness to the sauce.
• Hoisin sauce (1 tablespoon): Offers a touch of rich sweetness and complexity.
• Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): Packs a subtle nutty aroma that makes the dish irresistible.
• Brown sugar (1 tablespoon): Helps the sauce become glossy and balanced, marrying the salty and savory ingredients.
• Ground black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Lifts up the flavors with a gentle background warmth.
• Sliced green onions and sesame seeds (for garnish, optional): Brightens and finishes Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein beautifully, adding color and crunch.

How to Make Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Begin by cooking your lo mein noodles or spaghetti according to package directions. It’s crucial not to overcook them, as you’ll finish them in the pan later for that perfectly chewy bite. Once drained, quickly rinse them under cool water to stop the cooking, then set aside while you get everything else going.

Step 2: Marinate the Beef

In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced flank steak with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and the cornstarch. This simple marinade helps the beef achieve an ultra-tender texture while packing in savory flavor. Give it about 10 to 15 minutes for best results—just enough time to prep your other ingredients.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Working in batches, add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until just browned. Don’t overcrowd the pan to keep the beef searing nicely. Once done, set the beef aside on a plate—trust me, you’ll be sneaking bites already.

Step 4: Cook the Broccoli and Garlic

To the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until they’re bright green and just tender-crisp. Add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds; it’ll perfume your whole kitchen without overwhelming the other flavors.

Step 5: Bring Everything Together

Return the cooked beef to the pan with the broccoli. In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, and black pepper—this is your flavor-packed sauce. Add the cooked noodles and the sauce to the skillet, tossing everything together until evenly coated and heated through. At this moment, your Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein transforms into an utterly inviting, restaurant-worthy dinner.

How to Serve Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein

Garnishes

Add a final flourish by sprinkling sliced green onions and sesame seeds over the top. These garnishes don’t just make the dish look beautiful—they bring little pops of flavor and crunch that keep every bite of Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein interesting.

Side Dishes

While Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein is plenty satisfying solo, it pairs well with a refreshing Asian cucumber salad, crisp vegetable spring rolls, or steamed dumplings if you want to round out the meal for a bigger feast. Think of dishes that add contrasting textures and keep things lively.

Creative Ways to Present

For extra style points, serve Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein in colorful bowls with chopsticks or garnish with edible flowers or chili threads. If you’re hosting, you can even create a noodle bar and let everyone pick their own garnishes and extra toppings. It turns an easy dinner into a festive, interactive experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), store Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight and it reheats beautifully for a savory, nearly guilt-free lunch.

Freezing

Freezing is possible, but for best results, cool the dish completely and store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Just keep in mind that the noodles may soften a bit after freezing, but the taste will still be spot on.

Reheating

To reheat Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein, use a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking and revive the sauce. Stir gently until warmed through. The microwave works too for a quick fix, though a skillet keeps the texture at its best.

FAQs

Can I substitute another protein for beef?

Absolutely! Chicken, shrimp, or even tofu work beautifully in place of beef. Just keep the marinating and stir-frying times in mind, especially since shrimp cook quickly.

Is it necessary to marinate the beef?

Marinating isn’t just for flavor—it’s the secret to tender slices in Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein. Even a quick 10-minute soak makes a noticeable difference, so try not to skip this step.

What’s the best way to slice flank steak for lo mein?

Always slice against the grain. Look for the long fibers in the meat and cut perpendicular to them; this keeps each bite buttery-tender, not chewy.

How can I make this recipe gluten free?

Just use gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and rice noodles or your favorite gluten-free spaghetti instead of regular lo mein noodles. Many brands offer gluten-free versions of oyster and hoisin sauces, so be sure to check the labels.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Definitely! Bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots are all delicious additions to Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein. Just slice them thin so they cook quickly and mix seamlessly with the noodles.

Final Thoughts

If you love cozy noodle bowls and crave a meal that feels both special and easy, this Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein is for you. Every forkful is packed with flavor and the whole thing comes together in just 30 minutes. Don’t wait—grab your chopsticks and enjoy a takeout favorite that’s even better homemade!

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