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Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein – A Takeout Favorite Made at Home!

There’s something about a steaming plate of Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein that feels like pure comfort food. Tender strips of beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and perfectly chewy noodles come together in a glossy, savory-sweet sauce that rivals any takeout. This homemade version uses fresh ingredients, a balanced stir-fry sauce, and just the right amount of sesame oil for aroma. It’s quick enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough to serve guests. The best part? You control the seasoning, the quality of the meat, and the vegetables that go in.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Meats:
  • 1 lb steak flank or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
Fruits & Vegetables:
  • 16 oz broccoli florets
  • ⅛ cup garlic minced
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • ⅛ cup fresh ginger minced
  • ¼ cup onions thinly sliced
Condiments:
  • ½ cup honey
  • ½ cup oyster sauce
  • ¾ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce for marinade
Pasta & Grains:
  • 16 oz noodles lo mein or spaghetti
Culinary Aids & Spices:
  • 3 tbsp cornstarch
Oils & Vinegars:
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar non-alcoholic
  • 2 tbsp sesame oil
Liquids:
  • 2 tbsp water
Other:
  • 1 tbsp browning optional, for color

Equipment

  • Large pot (for boiling noodles)
  • Wok or large skillet
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Small mixing bowls
  • Tongs or spatula

Method
 

Step 1: Prep the Beef
  1. In a medium bowl, mix 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp cornstarch, and optional browning.
  2. Add sliced beef, tossing to coat. Let marinate for 15 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
  1. Boil noodles according to package directions until just al dente.
  2. Drain, toss with 1 tbsp sesame oil, and set aside to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together:
  2. Honey
  3. Oyster sauce
  4. Low-sodium soy sauce
  5. Rice vinegar and rice wine vinegar
  6. Water
  7. Remaining cornstarch (2 tbsp) for thickening
  8. Set aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Beef
  1. Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add beef in a single layer; cook for 1–2 minutes per side until browned.
  3. Remove beef and set aside.
Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
  1. In the same pan, add garlic, fresh ginger, and onions. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Add broccoli and ¼ cup water; cover for 2–3 minutes to steam until crisp-tender.
Step 6: Combine Everything
  1. Return beef to the pan.
  2. Pour in the sauce, stirring until it thickens slightly.
  3. Add noodles and toss until fully coated in sauce.
Step 7: Serve
  1. Plate immediately, garnished with sesame seeds or extra green onions if desired.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer:
Best eaten fresh, but you can freeze for up to 1 month (texture may soften).
Reheating:
Stir-fry in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce until warmed through.
🥄 Variations
Chicken Lo Mein: Swap beef for thinly sliced chicken breast.
Shrimp Lo Mein: Add shrimp during the last 3 minutes of cooking.
Extra Veggie: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots.
Spicy Kick: Add chili paste or crushed red pepper.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari and rice noodles instead of wheat noodles.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. What cut of beef is best?
Flank or sirloin steak works best for tenderness.
2. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes—replace beef with tofu and oyster sauce with mushroom sauce.
3. Can I make it without oyster sauce?
Yes—use hoisin sauce for a sweeter flavor.
4. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes—just thaw slightly before cooking.
5. Why is my beef tough?
Overcooking or cutting with the grain can make it chewy; slice thinly against the grain.
6. Can I skip the honey?
Yes—use brown sugar for sweetness instead.
7. Can I use different noodles?
Yes—egg noodles, spaghetti, or even udon work.
8. Can I make this in advance?
Yes—prep the beef and sauce ahead, then cook fresh.
9. How do I keep noodles from sticking?
Toss in a little sesame oil after boiling.
10. Can I double the sauce?
Yes—especially if you like it extra saucy.
🏁 Conclusion
This Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein is proof that you don’t need to order takeout to enjoy restaurant-quality noodles. With tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a flavorful sauce that clings to every strand, it’s a satisfying, quick, and healthier alternative to delivery.