There’s a certain kind of magic that happens when you make a dish that feels like a comforting embrace but takes no time at all to prepare. One such dish that consistently brings both joy and ease to my kitchen is Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein. It’s the kind of meal that’s perfect for just about any occasion whether you’re busy during the week or want to impress guests over the weekend. I remember the first time I made it: after a long day at work, I was craving something quick but satisfying. Takeout would’ve been the easy choice, but I wanted something homemade and fresh. After gathering a few ingredients, I threw everything together in a wok, and in just about 30 minutes, dinner was served. The combination of tender beef, crunchy broccoli, and perfectly cooked lo mein noodles coated in a flavorful sauce was just what I needed and it was ready in no time at all.
Over the years, Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein has become a staple in my home, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s a dish that delivers on flavor, is easy to make, and can be customized to fit any dietary preference. It’s the ideal meal for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or even a cozy dinner for two. The best part? You can have a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss or the wait for delivery.
If you’re looking for a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, this recipe is for you. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a family favorite that never gets old.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
There’s something undeniably satisfying about a dish like Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein. It’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make, yet feels special enough to be served on just about any occasion. But what really makes this recipe stand out is how it perfectly balances all the elements we love in a good meal: tender beef, crunchy broccoli, and soft noodles, all brought together with a savory sauce that has the right amount of sweet and salty flavors.
One of the biggest reasons why I keep coming back to this dish is because it’s so customizable. While the recipe calls for beef sirloin or flank steak, you can easily swap it out for chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a different take. The combination of savory sauces like soy sauce, oyster sauce, and hoisin sauce creates a depth of flavor that’s rich and comforting without being overwhelming. The broccoli adds a nice crunch, and if you want to add more veggies, you can easily toss in carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas whatever you have on hand.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For this recipe, you’ll need:
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 8 oz lo mein noodles (or spaghetti as an alternative)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped (for garnish)
These ingredients come together to create a savory, balanced dish that’s sure to satisfy. The combination of sauces gives the lo mein its distinctive flavor, while the vegetables and beef bring in freshness and texture.
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Start by cooking the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. If you’re using spaghetti as a substitute, cook it al dente. Once they’re done, drain the noodles and set them aside. Be sure to toss them with a little bit of oil to prevent them from sticking together.
Step 2: Slice the Beef
While the noodles are cooking, thinly slice your beef sirloin or flank steak into strips. For the best results, make sure the beef is slightly frozen before slicing it’ll make it easier to get those nice thin pieces. Season the beef with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re crisp-tender and vibrant green. Once cooked, remove the broccoli from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Beef
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced beef in a single layer. Let it sear for about 2-3 minutes without stirring, then flip it over to cook the other side. Continue to cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes in total. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside with the broccoli.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. If you’re using ginger, add it in at this stage for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the beef and broccoli to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the beef and broccoli mixture, stirring everything together until the sauce thickens slightly and everything is coated. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss them with the beef and broccoli. Make sure the noodles soak up the sauce, and everything gets well-mixed.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
To finish, garnish the dish with chopped green onions for a fresh burst of flavor. Serve immediately, either on its own or with a side of steamed rice. Enjoy!
Variation Ideas:
While this recipe is delicious as written, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
- Vegan Option: Swap the beef for tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of the beef broth. Make sure to use a vegan-friendly soy sauce or tamari to keep the recipe plant-based.
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace the lo mein noodles with gluten-free noodles or rice noodles. Ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free by using tamari.
- Low-Carb: For a low-carb alternative, swap the noodles for zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. These options will give you the same texture without the carbs.
- Spicy Version: If you love heat, add some chili paste or extra red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick. You could also toss in some sliced jalapeños when cooking the beef for extra spice.
- More Veggies: If you want to add more veggies, feel free to toss in bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. The more colorful, the better!
These variations allow you to adapt the recipe to your preferences or dietary needs, while still maintaining the essence of this delicious dish.
How to Serve Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein:
Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein can be enjoyed on its own, but to make it an even more satisfying meal, there are a few ways you can enhance the dish. Here are some ideas for serving this flavorful stir-fry:
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With a Side of Rice
While the lo mein noodles already make the dish hearty, a side of steamed jasmine rice or brown rice can add extra texture and complement the rich flavors of the beef and sauce. It’s especially helpful if you have a crowd to feed or if you simply want to bulk up the meal. -
Pair with a Light Salad
A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette can be a refreshing contrast to the savory richness of the lo mein. Try a simple cucumber and carrot salad or a mixed green salad with a sesame dressing to balance the meal’s flavors. -
Add a Soup Starter
If you’re making this dish for a special dinner or gathering, consider starting the meal with a light soup. A classic miso soup or a simple vegetable broth-based soup would be a perfect appetizer to keep the flavors in line with the Asian-inspired theme of the main dish. -
Garnish for Extra Flavor
Don’t forget to finish the dish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and extra chopped green onions for added freshness and crunch. You could also drizzle some extra hoisin sauce or chili oil over the top if you want to add a bit more depth and heat to the dish.
Recipe Tips:
To help you get the most out of this recipe, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
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Prep Your Ingredients Ahead of Time:
Before you start cooking, take a few minutes to slice the beef, chop the vegetables, and measure out your sauces. Having everything ready to go will help the stir-frying process go smoothly and prevent overcooking any ingredients. -
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:
When cooking the beef, make sure the pan isn’t overcrowded. If you add too much beef at once, it will release too much moisture, and you won’t get that nice sear. It’s best to cook it in batches, especially if you’re working with a smaller skillet or wok. -
Adjust the Sauce to Taste:
Feel free to tweak the sauce ingredients to suit your taste. If you like things a bit sweeter, add more brown sugar. If you prefer a saltier flavor, a dash of extra soy sauce will do the trick. Don’t hesitate to adjust the ingredients to match your personal preferences. -
Add More Veggies:
This recipe is super versatile when it comes to veggies. If you love vegetables, feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or even baby corn. The key is to keep the cooking time in mind ensure that the veggies don’t overcook and retain their crispness. -
Make it Spicy:
For those who love spice, add some extra chili flakes or chili paste to the sauce. You can also toss in a few slices of fresh chili peppers when stir-frying the beef for an added kick.
Cooking Notes:
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Use High Heat:
When stir-frying, make sure your pan or wok is preheated over medium-high to high heat. This allows the beef and vegetables to sear properly without releasing too much moisture, which can make the dish soggy. -
Storage Tips:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. If the noodles become a bit dry, simply reheat them with a splash of water or broth to restore their texture. -
Freezing:
While it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, you can freeze the beef and broccoli mixture (without the noodles) for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, simply defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet. Cook fresh noodles when reheating. -
Best Noodles:
For the most authentic texture, use lo mein noodles. If they’re not available, thin spaghetti or even egg noodles can work as substitutes. Just ensure that the noodles are cooked al dente for the best result.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Sodium: 1100mg
- Carbs: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Fat: 18g
Details:
- Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
FAQs:
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use a different cut of beef, such as flank steak, ribeye, or skirt steak. These cuts are ideal for stir-frying due to their tenderness and quick cooking times.
Can I make this recipe without noodles?
Absolutely! If you prefer a low-carb or gluten-free option, you can swap the noodles for zucchini noodles, rice noodles, or even cauliflower rice.
What can I substitute for the oyster sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce on hand, you can substitute it with a combination of soy sauce and a little bit of sugar or honey. This will mimic the sweetness and umami flavor of oyster sauce.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
While fresh broccoli is ideal, you can use frozen broccoli florets in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture in the dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, you can include chili paste, more red pepper flakes, or fresh chili peppers during the stir-frying process. Adjust the spice level to your liking!
Conclusion:
Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein is one of those recipes that never fails to deliver on flavor, ease, and comfort. With its perfect balance of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory noodles, it’s a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend meal, or a gathering with friends, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious.
The beauty of Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein lies in its adaptability you can make it your own by switching up the protein, adding more veggies, or adjusting the spice level to your taste. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, which means fewer dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
Looking for more meal ideas? Be sure to check out my other recipes on the site, and let me know which ones you’d like to see next. Happy cooking!
Print
Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For this recipe, you’ll need:
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 8 oz lo mein noodles (or spaghetti as an alternative)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Start by cooking the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. If you’re using spaghetti as a substitute, cook it al dente. Once they’re done, drain the noodles and set them aside. Be sure to toss them with a little bit of oil to prevent them from sticking together.
Step 2: Slice the Beef
While the noodles are cooking, thinly slice your beef sirloin or flank steak into strips. For the best results, make sure the beef is slightly frozen before slicing it’ll make it easier to get those nice thin pieces. Season the beef with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re crisp-tender and vibrant green. Once cooked, remove the broccoli from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Beef
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced beef in a single layer. Let it sear for about 2-3 minutes without stirring, then flip it over to cook the other side. Continue to cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes in total. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside with the broccoli.
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. If you’re using ginger, add it in at this stage for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the beef and broccoli to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the beef and broccoli mixture, stirring everything together until the sauce thickens slightly and everything is coated. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss them with the beef and broccoli. Make sure the noodles soak up the sauce, and everything gets well-mixed.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
To finish, garnish the dish with chopped green onions for a fresh burst of flavor. Serve immediately, either on its own or with a side of steamed rice. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Sodium: 1100
- Protein: 28