Homemade Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein

When you’re craving Chinese takeout but want something fresher, faster, and more satisfying, Homemade Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein is your go-to solution. This dish features tender strips of beef, crisp broccoli, and chewy noodles tossed in a savory, slightly sweet sauce—all made in your own kitchen in under 30 minutes.

It’s inspired by classic Chinese-American lo mein, but with a homemade twist that gives you total control over the ingredients, flavor, and spice. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is a complete meal in a bowl—no need for extra sides or complicated prep. Once you try it, you’ll never look at takeout the same way again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Dinner on the table in 25–30 minutes.

• Better Than Takeout: Fresh ingredients, no MSG, customizable flavor.

• Family-Friendly: A guaranteed hit with both adults and kids.

• Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well and reheats beautifully.

• One Pan Clean-Up: Everything comes together in one wok or skillet.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Lo Mein Noodles:

• 8 oz (225g) lo mein noodles (or spaghetti/egg noodles as a substitute)

• Water and salt for boiling

For the Stir Fry:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or sesame oil)

• 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain

• 3 cups broccoli florets

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced (optional)

• 2 green onions, sliced (plus more for garnish)

• Optional: shredded carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas

For the Lo Mein Sauce:

• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce

• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (for sweetness)

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup water (to thicken)

• Optional: 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce or sriracha (for heat)

How to Make Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

• Cook noodles according to package instructions until just tender (al dente).

• Drain, rinse with cold water, and toss with a little sesame oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

• In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin, brown sugar, sesame oil, and chili sauce (if using).

• Mix the cornstarch with water separately, and set both aside.

Step 3: Stir Fry the Beef

• Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.

• Add beef slices in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until browned.

• Remove beef and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

• In the same skillet, add broccoli and a splash of water to steam slightly.

• Stir fry for 2–3 minutes until broccoli is bright green but still crisp.

• Add garlic, ginger, and green onions; cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 5: Combine Everything

• Return beef to the skillet along with cooked noodles.

• Pour in the lo mein sauce and toss everything together.

• Add the cornstarch slurry and stir well, letting the sauce thicken and coat everything evenly (1–2 minutes).

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

• Remove from heat and garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds.

• Serve hot and enjoy immediately.

Pro Tips for Perfect Lo Mein

1. Use High Heat
Stir frying over high heat creates those signature charred edges and keeps the veggies crisp.

2. Slice Beef Thinly and Against the Grain
This makes the beef ultra-tender and quick to cook.

3. Prep Everything Before You Start
Once the stir fry starts, it moves fast. Having your ingredients ready makes it smooth and stress-free.

4. Don’t Overcook the Noodles
They’ll continue to cook slightly when tossed with the hot stir fry. Undercook slightly to avoid mushy noodles.

Customization Ideas

Make It Vegetarian

• Skip the beef and add tofu, mushrooms, or more veggies like snow peas and baby corn.

Switch the Protein

• Use chicken, shrimp, or pork instead of beef—just adjust cooking time accordingly.

Add More Vegetables

• This recipe is a great fridge-cleaner. Add cabbage, bean sprouts, spinach, or bell peppers for more variety and nutrients.

Adjust the Heat

• Increase chili garlic sauce or sriracha for a spicier kick, or leave it out for a milder, family-friendly version.

What to Serve With It

While this dish is a full meal on its own, you can serve it with:

• Egg rolls or spring rolls

• Hot and sour soup or miso soup

• Steamed dumplings or potstickers

• Cucumber salad with sesame dressing

• Chilled green tea or sparkling water with lime

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Meal Prep

• Divide into containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to revive the sauce.

Freezing

• You can freeze the stir fry (without the noodles) for up to 2 months. Defrost, reheat, and toss with freshly cooked noodles before serving.

Nutrition Snapshot (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 480

• Protein: 28g

• Carbs: 45g

• Fat: 20g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 6g

• Sodium: 650mg

For a lower-carb version, swap the noodles for zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.

Reader Reviews

“I made this last night and it was amazing! Better than our local takeout spot.”
— Sarah L.

“Added bell peppers and some chili oil—so flavorful and easy to make.”
— James K.

“The sauce was just right. I used chicken instead of beef and it worked perfectly.”
— Alicia M.

More Takeout-Inspired Recipes to Try

Love recreating your favorites at home? Try these next:

• Sticky Orange Chicken

• Shrimp Fried Rice

• Chicken Teriyaki Noodle Bowl

• Spicy Garlic Tofu Stir Fry

• Sweet and Sour Meatballs

Each dish is quick, customizable, and full of bold flavors—no delivery required.

Bring the Takeout Home—The Better Way

Once you master Homemade Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein, you’ll see just how simple and satisfying cooking your favorite takeout dishes can be. It’s faster than delivery, more affordable, and completely customizable to your taste.

So next time that craving hits, skip the phone call—grab your wok, fire up the stove, and enjoy restaurant-style lo mein right at home.

The Joy of Making Lo Mein at Home

There’s something incredibly rewarding about making a takeout classic from scratch. You control the quality of ingredients, adjust the flavors to your liking, and skip the excess oil and additives often found in restaurant versions. This homemade lo mein delivers the comfort of your favorite noodle dish with a fresh, clean taste that only home cooking can provide.

Make It a Family Favorite

This recipe is a fantastic way to get the whole family around the dinner table. Kids love the chewy noodles and mild flavors, and adults appreciate the savory sauce and customizable heat. Let everyone build their own bowl with added toppings like sesame seeds, chili oil, or a squeeze of lime for a fun, interactive meal.

How to Meal Prep This Recipe

Beef and broccoli lo mein is a dream for meal prepping. Cook everything in advance and divide into individual portions. Store in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When ready to eat, just microwave or reheat in a pan with a splash of water or soy sauce to bring back that glossy finish.

Tip: Store noodles and stir-fry separately if you want to maintain the best texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Beef: Sear it quickly over high heat for a juicy, tender result.
2. Skipping the Cornstarch: It helps the sauce cling to the noodles beautifully.
3. Using Too Many Noodles: A common mistake—use the recommended amount to avoid a dry stir fry.
4. Not Prepping in Advance: Stir-frying happens quickly, so chop and measure everything before turning on the heat.

Want to Add Even More Flavor?

• Marinate the Beef for 15–30 minutes with a little soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil before cooking.

• Add Crushed Peanuts or toasted cashews on top for crunch.

• Finish with a Drizzle of Chili Oil or sriracha for spicy heat.

• Top with a Fried Egg for a protein-packed finish.

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