This hearty Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein is a tasty meal that’s packed with tender beef, crunchy broccoli, and stir-fried noodles. It’s quick to whip up and perfect for busy weeknights!
I love how the beef soaks up the savory sauce, making every bite delicious. Plus, it’s like having takeout at home without the wait — who doesn’t love that? 😄
Making this dish is a breeze! I just cook the noodles, stir-fry the meat and veggies, and toss them all together. Easy peasy, and it tastes amazing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lo Mein Noodles: I love using traditional lo mein noodles for their chewy texture. If you can’t find them, spaghetti works just fine. You can also try rice noodles or even whole grain pasta for a healthier option.
Beef Sirloin: Sirloin has great flavor and tenderness. You can swap it for flank steak or even chicken for a lighter dish. If you’re vegetarian, try tofu or seitan as a substitute!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives the best crunch. If it’s out of season, frozen broccoli florets can work too. You could even mix in some bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
Garlic and Ginger: Both add wonderful depth to the dish. If you’re short on fresh ginger, a little ground ginger can do the trick, or simply omit it if necessary. Garlic powder is another quick alternative.
Sauces: Soy sauce can be replaced with tamari for a gluten-free option. For a twist, add a splash of teriyaki sauce along with oyster and hoisin sauces for more flavor.
How Do I Get the Beef Tender and Juicy?
To ensure your beef turns out tender, slicing it thinly against the grain is key. This helps break up the muscle fibers, making each bite juicy. Marinating it in soy sauce, even for 15 minutes, can also boost tenderness and flavor. Don’t overcrowd the pan while cooking; this can lead to steaming instead of searing.
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add just enough oil.
- Cook the beef in batches if necessary. This keeps the temperature high, allowing it to brown instead of steam.
- Remove the beef as soon as it’s browned to prevent overcooking.
How to Make Tender Beef And Broccoli Lo Mein
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 ounces lo mein noodles (or spaghetti)
- 1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauces and Oils:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
- Green onions, chopped for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious beef and broccoli lo mein takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to cook. In total, you should set aside about 30 minutes to enjoy this wonderful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Add the lo mein noodles (or spaghetti) and cook according to the package instructions. Once they’re done, drain them and set aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and cornstarch. Stir everything together until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. Set this sauce mixture aside for later.
3. Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef to the pan, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds, or until their aroma fills the kitchen. Keep an eye on them, so they don’t burn!
5. Add the Vegetables:
Next, add the broccoli florets and julienned carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 2-3 minutes, just until they are tender but still have a nice crunch.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Then, add in the drained lo mein noodles and pour the sauce mixture over everything. Toss everything together gently to mix well, cooking for an extra 2-3 minutes until everything is hot and well combined.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is nicely mixed and heated through, it’s time to serve! Dish out the beef and broccoli lo mein onto plates and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if you like. Enjoy your delicious homemade meal!
Can I Use a Different Type of Noodle?
Absolutely! If you can’t find lo mein noodles, spaghetti or egg noodles are great substitutes. Just make sure to cook them according to package instructions for the best texture!
How to Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the beef with tofu or tempeh. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cube and sauté until golden brown. You can also omit the oyster sauce and use a mushroom-based sauce for a deeper flavor.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Chop the vegetables and slice the beef, then store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to stir-fry just before serving!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover beef and broccoli lo mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or stir-fry in a pan over medium heat until warmed through. If it seems dry, add a splash of water or soy sauce to help revive it!
