Beef and Vegetable Lo Mein is a delicious and satisfying stir-fry dish that combines tender strips of beef with crisp vegetables and soft noodles, all tossed in a savory, flavorful sauce. This Chinese-inspired dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a family meal, or even for meal prep.

The combination of beef, colorful vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles creates a balance of textures and flavors that is both comforting and indulgent.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The beef is tender, the vegetables retain their crispness, and the noodles soak up the delicious sauce. It’s a one-pan meal that is both comforting and nutritious, making it perfect for busy evenings.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it delivers all the flavors and textures of a classic Chinese takeout meal in a healthier, homemade version. It’s customizable, family-friendly, and perfect for those who love bold, savory sauces combined with fresh vegetables and tender beef.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, and Nutrition

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes

Servings: 4 servings
Calories: Approximately 450–500 calories per serving

Course: Main Course / Dinner
Cuisine: Chinese / Asian-Inspired

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225 g) lo mein noodles or spaghetti
• 1 lb (450 g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup snap peas
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 3 green onions, sliced
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: sesame seeds for garnish

Cooking Directions

Cook noodles according to package instructions and drain. Toss beef with soy sauce and cornstarch. Heat oil in a skillet or wok, cook beef until browned, then remove. Stir-fry garlic, ginger, and vegetables until crisp-tender. Return beef to the pan, add noodles and sauces, and toss to combine. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: In a bowl, toss thinly sliced beef with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, cornstarch, and black pepper. Let it marinate for 5–10 minutes.

Step 3: Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and just cooked through. Remove beef and set aside.

Step 4: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Add bell pepper, broccoli, snap peas, and carrot. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.

Step 6: Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Add cooked noodles, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Toss everything together until evenly coated and heated through.

Step 7: Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve Beef and Vegetable Lo Mein immediately while hot. It pairs well with a light side of steamed dumplings, spring rolls, or a simple Asian-style salad. This dish works perfectly as a main course for lunch or dinner.

Recipe Tips

Use high heat when stir-frying to keep vegetables crisp. Slice the beef thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness. Prepare all ingredients before cooking because stir-frying is fast. Adjust sauce quantity to your taste for more or less flavor.

Variations in Detail

Swap beef for chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein option. Use different vegetables such as bok choy, mushrooms, or zucchini based on availability. Add chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy twist. For a low-carb version, substitute noodles with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.

Freezing and Storage

Store leftover lo mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of soy sauce or water to loosen the noodles. Freezing is not recommended, as noodles and vegetables may become mushy.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or wok
• Knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs or spatula
• Measuring spoons

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular spaghetti instead of lo mein noodles?
Yes, spaghetti or linguine works well as a substitute.

Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best to store noodles and stir-fried beef/vegetables separately and combine before reheating.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, replace beef with tofu or extra vegetables and use vegetarian oyster sauce.

How do I prevent noodles from sticking?
Toss cooked noodles with a little sesame oil to keep them separate before adding to the stir-fry.

Conclusion

Beef and Vegetable Lo Mein is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying stir-fry that combines tender beef, crisp vegetables, and soft noodles in a savory sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish is versatile, customizable, and packed with authentic Asian-inspired flavors. With its ease of preparation and balanced textures, it’s a must-try recipe for anyone looking for a wholesome, delicious, and homemade takeout-style meal.