Beef and Broccoli Lomein Recipe

Imagine the irresistible combination of tender beef slices, vibrant green broccoli, and perfectly chewy noodles, all dancing together in a savory, garlicky sauce—this is the magic of Beef and Broccoli Lomein. This dish delivers far more than your average takeout, yet it’s a breeze to prepare at home. Full of color, texture, and fresh flavors, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a comforting meal on a busy weeknight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for Beef and Broccoli Lomein is delightfully straightforward, but each one plays a starring role—tender beef for a hearty bite, crisp broccoli for freshness, and that luscious savory sauce that pulls it all together. Here’s what you’ll need to make this lomein truly spectacular:

• Beef sirloin or flank steak: Thinly sliced beef stays tender and soaks up the sauce beautifully—choose a well-marbled cut for extra juiciness.
• Broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli brings a pop of color and a satisfying crunch—cut into bite-size pieces for even cooking.
• Lomein noodles or spaghetti: Traditional lomein noodles work best, but spaghetti is a fantastic substitute if that’s what you have on hand.
• Soy sauce: Adds deep, savory flavor and acts as the main seasoning for both the beef and the noodles.
• Oyster sauce: This ingredient is the secret to classic lomein flavor—rich, slightly sweet, and so satisfying.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses the entire dish with a mouthwatering aroma and sharp bite.
• Sesame oil: Just a dash delivers toasty, nutty notes that linger beautifully on every noodle.
• Brown sugar: A small amount balances the saltiness of the sauces and gives a lovely sheen to the finished dish.
• Vegetable oil: Perfect for stir-frying, helping everything cook quickly and evenly.
• Scallions (green onions): These add freshness and a final burst of color at the very end.
• Optional extras: Try adding carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for even more veggie goodness, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.

How to Make Beef and Broccoli Lomein

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Before you even think about turning on the stove, get everything sliced, diced, and ready to go. Slice the beef thinly against the grain, chop your broccoli into small florets, mince your garlic, and have your sauces portioned out. Lomein cooks fast, so having your mise en place (everything in its place) will keep things stress-free from start to finish.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your lomein noodles (or spaghetti) according to package instructions until just tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Give them a light toss with a splash of sesame oil to keep them silky.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat, then swirl in some vegetable oil. Add the thinly sliced beef in a single layer, searing quickly until just browned on both sides. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the beef won’t get that nice caramelization—work in batches if necessary. Transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Broccoli

Add a bit more oil to the pan if needed, toss in your garlic, and let it sizzle just until fragrant. Immediately add your broccoli florets, stir-frying for a couple of minutes until they’re bright green and still crisp. If you like your broccoli a tad softer, splash in a tablespoon of water and cover briefly to steam.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Return the seared beef to the pan with the broccoli. Pour in your pre-mixed sauce (soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and a hint of sesame oil), then toss everything to coat. Add in the cooked noodles and keep tossing until they’ve soaked up that glossy, flavorful sauce. Finish with fresh scallions for that signature Beef and Broccoli Lomein touch.

How to Serve Beef and Broccoli Lomein

Garnishes

A sprinkle of sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds can go a long way in making your Beef and Broccoli Lomein feel restaurant-worthy. Fresh cilantro or a drizzle of chili oil can add an extra pop of color and flavor if you’re feeling adventurous. If you love a little crunch, lightly crushed peanuts offer a fun twist.

Side Dishes

Beef and Broccoli Lomein is a complete meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with light sides like steamed edamame, cucumber salad, or spring rolls. For even more variety, try serving with hot and sour soup or simple sautéed greens.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful with how you serve lomein—pile it high in colorful bowls, twist it elegantly with tongs onto plates, or even present it in takeout-style boxes for a nostalgic touch. Set up a little DIY bar with additional toppings so everyone can customize their bowl. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at potlucks, too.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Beef and Broccoli Lomein cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days without losing its flavor. The noodles may absorb more sauce as they sit, so they’ll get even more flavorful by day two.

Freezing

While Beef and Broccoli Lomein is at its best eaten fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, squeezing out as much air as possible. When stored this way, it can last for up to two months. Just keep in mind the broccoli may be a bit softer once reheated.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to bring back the noodles’ moisture, then warm everything gently in a skillet over medium heat. Give the lomein a quick toss to heat it through evenly. The microwave works in a pinch—cover the bowl loosely and stir halfway through to keep the noodles from drying out.

FAQs

What kind of beef works best for Beef and Broccoli Lomein?

Flank steak or sirloin are ideal choices because they stay tender and soak up the sauce so beautifully. Slice them very thinly against the grain for best results. If you want to swap in another protein, chicken or tofu are great alternatives.

Can I use other vegetables besides broccoli?

Absolutely! While broccoli is traditional, you can mix in carrots, snap peas, baby corn, or bell peppers—feel free to use whatever’s in your fridge. The key is cutting everything into pieces similar in size so they cook evenly.

Is Beef and Broccoli Lomein spicy?

Classic Beef and Broccoli Lomein is not spicy, but you can easily kick things up by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes, a squirt of sriracha, or chili oil if you love some heat.

Do I need a wok to make this recipe?

While a wok gives you that signature sear and space to toss the noodles, a large skillet will work just fine. The most important thing is to keep the heat high and work quickly to keep everything crisp and fresh.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap out the beef for extra-firm tofu, tempeh, or just bump up the veggie quantity. Choose a vegetarian oyster sauce or hoisin sauce to keep all the same rich, umami flavors without the meat.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Beef and Broccoli Lomein is such a beloved classic—it’s quick, comforting, and bursting with flavor in every bite. Give it a spot in your weeknight rotation, and you’ll always have a delicious answer to the question, “What’s for dinner?” I can’t wait for you to try this at home and enjoy the ultimate homemade noodle night!

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