Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein is a classic takeout favorite that you can easily recreate at home with fresh ingredients and simple techniques. Tender slices of beef and crisp-tender broccoli are tossed with chewy noodles in a savory, umami-packed sauce that’s both comforting and satisfying. This dish strikes the perfect balance between rich flavors and hearty textures, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein
Perfectly tender beef: Thinly sliced and marinated for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Crisp broccoli: Adds freshness and a satisfying crunch to every bite.
Chewy lo mein noodles: Absorb the savory sauce beautifully for a comforting texture.
Rich, flavorful sauce: A harmonious blend of soy, garlic, ginger, and a hint of sweetness.
Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep and one-pan cooking.
Versatile meal: Serve as a filling dinner or pack it for next-day lunch.
Homemade and wholesome: Control your ingredients and avoid takeout preservatives.
Savor the delicious flavors of Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein—a restaurant-quality dish you can make fast and enjoy even faster!
Ingredients for Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein
This beef and broccoli lo mein is a hearty, flavorful meal in every bite. Here’s what you’ll need:
Flank steak: This cut is tender and flavorful, perfect for stir-frying. Slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture.
Broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli adds a vibrant crunch and a pop of color. You can also use frozen if you’re in a pinch.
Lo mein noodles: These chewy noodles are the heart of the dish. If you can’t find lo mein, spaghetti or udon noodles work as great substitutes.
Vegetable oil: A neutral oil is ideal for stir-frying. You can use canola or peanut oil for a hint of flavor.
Garlic: Minced garlic brings a fragrant punch to the dish. Fresh is best, but jarred works too.
Fresh ginger: This adds warmth and spice. If you don’t have fresh, ground ginger can be a quick alternative.
Soy sauce: A staple in Asian cooking, it provides that savory umami flavor. Low-sodium options are available for a healthier choice.
Oyster sauce: This thick sauce adds depth and sweetness. If you’re vegetarian, look for mushroom-based alternatives.
Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce, it helps create that glossy finish. You can substitute with arrowroot if needed.
Beef broth: This enhances the flavor of the sauce. Homemade or store-bought works well.
Sesame oil: A drizzle of this oil at the end adds a nutty aroma. It’s potent, so a little goes a long way.
Black pepper: Freshly cracked pepper adds a subtle heat. Feel free to adjust to your taste.
Green onions: Chopped green onions are perfect for garnish, adding freshness and a mild onion flavor.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. This Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein comes together quickly, so it’s best to have everything prepped before you start. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Step 1: Cook the Lo Mein Noodles
Start by boiling a pot of water. Once it’s bubbling, add the lo mein noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions, usually around 4-5 minutes. You want them al dente, so they hold up when tossed with the other ingredients. Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside for later.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, beef broth, sesame oil, and black pepper. Whisk it until smooth. This sauce is the heart of your Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein, so make sure it’s well combined. Set it aside; we’ll use it shortly.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Beef
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced flank steak. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you want that beautiful sear. Once done, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 4: Cook the Broccoli
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the broccoli florets. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and are tender-crisp. This quick cooking keeps the broccoli crunchy and vibrant.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture. Stir everything together, ensuring the beef and broccoli are well coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the ingredients.
Step 6: Toss in the Noodles
Finally, add the cooked lo mein noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together gently, making sure the noodles are coated in that delicious sauce. Cook for another minute to heat through. Your Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein is now ready to serve!
Tips for Success
Marinate the flank steak in the sauce for 30 minutes for extra flavor.
Use a wok for better heat distribution and faster cooking.
Prep all ingredients before starting to keep the cooking process smooth.
Don’t overcook the broccoli; it should be bright green and slightly crunchy.
Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies for added nutrition.
Equipment Needed
Large skillet or wok: A wok is ideal for stir-frying, but a large skillet works just as well.
Cutting board: Essential for slicing the flank steak and prepping vegetables.
Sharp knife: A good knife makes all the difference in prep time.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Whisk: Perfect for mixing the sauce ingredients smoothly.
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the flank steak with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based twist.
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for some heat.
Extra Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added color and nutrition.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and rice noodles instead of lo mein for a gluten-free version.
Low-Carb: Swap out the lo mein noodles for zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles for a low-carb alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes: Serve with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a complete meal.
Drinks: Pair with a light beer or a refreshing iced tea to complement the flavors.
Presentation: Garnish with sesame seeds and extra green onions for a pop of color.
FAQs about Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein
Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak is my go-to, you can easily swap it for chicken, shrimp, or even pork. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.
Is Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and substitute the lo mein noodles with rice noodles. This way, you can enjoy the same great flavors without the gluten.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Chop the veggies and slice the meat, then store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, it will come together in no time!
What can I serve with Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or a light salad. You can also serve it with spring rolls or dumplings for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors, from the tender beef to the crisp broccoli, all wrapped in that savory sauce. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish brings joy and satisfaction. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do. So grab your wok, and let’s get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!
A delicious recipe for Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein, featuring tender flank steak, fresh broccoli, and lo mein noodles tossed in a savory sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
2 cups broccoli florets
8 ounces lo mein noodles
3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 cup beef broth
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 green onions, chopped
Instructions
Cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, beef broth, sesame oil, and black pepper. Set aside.
In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced flank steak and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
Return the beef to the skillet, then pour the sauce mixture over the beef and broccoli. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Add the cooked lo mein noodles to the skillet, tossing everything together until the noodles are well coated with the sauce. Cook for another minute to heat through.
Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the beef in the soy sauce mixture for 30 minutes before cooking.
You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
If you prefer a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
