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Ground Beef Lo Mein
About This Recipe
Ground Beef Lo Mein is a quick, flavorful stir-fry dish that brings together tender noodles, seasoned ground beef, and crisp vegetables coated in a rich, savory sauce. It's a perfect weeknight dinner because it cooks fast, uses everyday ingredients, and delivers restaurant-style taste without complicated steps. This homemade version lets you control the sauce, customize the veggies, and create a balanced meal that the whole family will enjoy.
You don't need special equipment or advanced cooking skills — just a skillet, a pot of noodles, and a few minutes on the stove. The sauce is a blend of soy, garlic, brown sugar, and sesame that hugs every strand of pasta. The result is a comforting, satisfying dish that feels both familiar and exciting.
Why You’ll Love This Lo Mein
This recipe is ideal for busy days because it's fast, flexible, and pantry-friendly. You can swap the vegetables, adjust the sauce to your taste, or even replace the beef with chicken, turkey, or tofu. The noodles come together with just the right amount of sweetness and savoriness, giving you a dish that works both as a main course and a meal prep option. Plus, it reheats beautifully without losing texture.
Ingredients
Noodles
• 8 ounces lo mein noodles (or spaghetti)
• Water for boiling + pinch of salt
Ground Beef & Vegetables
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup sliced bell peppers
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup cabbage or spinach (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional but recommended)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 cup beef broth or water
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional for thicker sauce)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Noodles:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lo mein noodles or spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until just tender. Drain and set aside, tossing lightly with a little sesame oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and broth. If you want a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch until smooth.
3. Cook the Beef:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart as it cooks. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Once browned, drain any excess fat if necessary.
4. Add the Vegetables:
Add the onion, carrots, and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for about 4–5 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. If using cabbage or spinach, add it now and cook just until wilted.
5. Combine Noodles & Sauce:
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing them with the beef and vegetables. Pour the sauce over the mixture and toss until everything is well coated. Let it cook for 1–2 more minutes so the noodles absorb the flavor.
6. Taste & Adjust:
Taste the lo mein and adjust seasoning if needed — add a splash of soy sauce for saltiness or a pinch of sugar for balance. Serve warm.
How to Serve It
Ground Beef Lo Mein is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it further by adding sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of chili oil for heat. It pairs beautifully with roasted broccoli, stir-fried bok choy, or a simple cucumber salad. It also works well as part of a larger meal featuring egg rolls or dumplings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use another type of noodle?
Yes, spaghetti, linguine, udon, or rice noodles all work well. Just avoid overcooking them so they stay firm.
What vegetables can I add?
Snow peas, mushrooms, broccoli florets, zucchini, or bean sprouts are great additions. Lo mein is very flexible.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes — the dish reheats nicely. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days and warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth.
Tips & Notes
• For deeper flavor, brown the beef well until little crispy edges form.
• Don’t skip the garlic — it builds the base of the sauce.
• If the noodles clump together, loosen them with a tablespoon of warm water.
• Add chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.
Storage
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water while reheating to keep the noodles soft and glossy. This dish also freezes fairly well — store for up to 1 month and thaw before reheating.
Easy, flexible, and full of flavor, this Ground Beef Lo Mein brings takeout-style satisfaction straight to your kitchen without the extra cost or effort. It’s a comforting meal you’ll find yourself craving again and again.