Savory Beef Lo Mein with Vegetables

Save this recipe on:

When you need dinner fast but still crave something deeply satisfying, this savory beef lo mein with vegetables is the answer. It combines tender strips of beef, crisp colorful veggies, and slurp-worthy noodles all tossed in a bold, umami-packed sauce. The best part? It comes together in one skillet and takes less time than ordering takeout.

This dish brings classic takeout flavor home, with a few simple pantry staples transforming into a sauce that clings to every noodle. It’s rich, slightly sweet, garlicky, and just the right amount of salty. The veggies stay vibrant and fresh, adding crunch and color to every bite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or you’re just craving Chinese-inspired comfort food, this lo mein delivers on all fronts.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Beef Lo Mein

This recipe is the perfect balance of convenience and flavor. It doesn’t require any fancy ingredients, yet it tastes restaurant-quality. You’ll love how the beef stays juicy and the vegetables retain their bite, all coated in that glossy sauce that ties it all together.

There’s room to make it your own too. Swap out the vegetables for what’s in your fridge or use chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead of beef. It’s flexible, fast, and always delicious.

What Kind of Noodles Should I Use for Lo Mein?

Lo mein is traditionally made with egg noodles, which have a slight chew and hold sauce beautifully. If you can find fresh lo mein noodles in the refrigerated section of your grocery store, they’re ideal. Otherwise, dried lo mein or even spaghetti can work in a pinch. Just be sure not to overcook the noodles; they should be just tender enough to soak up the sauce without becoming mushy.

Ingredients for the Savory Beef Lo Mein with Vegetables

Making lo mein is all about building flavor, so each ingredient plays a key role. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Beef sirloin or flank steak: Thinly sliced, this gives you tender, juicy bites of protein that cook quickly.
• Lo mein noodles: These are the base of the dish and soak up all the sauce. Sub with spaghetti or ramen if needed.
• Soy sauce: Brings saltiness and umami depth.
• Oyster sauce: Adds richness and a hint of sweetness.
• Sesame oil: A splash at the end enhances the flavor with its nutty aroma.
• Garlic: Freshly minced for that classic savory base.
• Ginger: Brightens the sauce and brings zing.
• Brown sugar: Balances the salt and brings just enough sweetness.
• Cornstarch: Used to lightly coat the beef for a tender sear.
• Carrots: Thin matchsticks add sweetness and color.
• Bell pepper: Any color works, giving crunch and vibrancy.
• Green onions: Stirred in at the end for a fresh bite.
• Cabbage or bok choy: Adds volume and mild flavor.
• Vegetable oil: For high-heat cooking without smoking.

How To Make the Savory Beef Lo Mein with Vegetables

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Slice your beef thin against the grain and toss it with a little cornstarch and soy sauce. This keeps it tender and helps it sear beautifully. Julienne your carrots, bell pepper, and chop your cabbage and green onions. Set everything in bowls so it’s ready to go.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. This will be your flavor bomb.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Heat a wok or large skillet with vegetable oil. Add the beef and stir-fry on high heat for 1-2 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Veggies

In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed and toss in the carrots and bell pepper. After a minute, add cabbage or bok choy. Cook until just tender but still vibrant.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked noodles, beef, and sauce to the pan. Toss well to combine and heat through. Add green onions at the very end and toss again.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Plate your lo mein while it’s piping hot so the noodles stay saucy and springy.

How to Serve and Store Your Savory Beef Lo Mein

This hearty noodle dish is perfect straight from the pan to the plate. It feeds about 4 people as a main course, or more if you serve it alongside other dishes. Serve it hot with chopsticks or forks and an extra drizzle of sesame oil or chili sauce for spice lovers.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water to loosen up the sauce.

What to Serve With Savory Beef Lo Mein?

Steamed Dumplings

These make a great appetizer or side and pair perfectly with lo mein.

Egg Drop Soup

A warm, silky soup like this balances out the stir-fry’s bold flavors.

Cucumber Salad

The crispness and tang cut through the richness of the noodles.

Garlic Green Beans

Sautéed with garlic and sesame oil, they echo the Asian flavors and add extra green.

Spring Rolls

Crispy and light, spring rolls are a great finger food to start.

Fried Rice

If you’re feeding a crowd, serve with fried rice to keep things extra filling.

Kimchi

A bold, fermented twist that contrasts beautifully with the sweet-savory sauce.

Want More Stir-Fry Ideas?

If you loved this savory beef lo mein, you might enjoy exploring more delicious noodle and beef dishes:

• Try the rich and comforting Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe
• Cozy up to the hearty Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
• Go for bold flavor with this Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce
• For something even creamier, check out Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta
• Or spice things up with the One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

I’d love to hear how your savory beef lo mein turned out. Did you use a different mix of veggies? Maybe added mushrooms or swapped the beef for chicken? Let me know in the comments how you made it your own.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and daily recipes on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for easy meals that hit the spot.

Print

Save this recipe on: