Classic Beef Lo Mein

175 2 minutes read

Last Tuesday, I found myself staring into the fridge like it was hiding secrets—just condiments and a single lemon looking back at me. I was this close to blowing $35 on mediocre takeout when it finally clicked: there was beef in the freezer and noodles in the pantry. The kids were already asking what dinner was, and honestly, scrolling through menus felt like too much effort.

So I threw together a quick beef lo mein—and let me tell you, it turned out better than our usual Chinese place. My 14-year-old paused mid-chew and said, “Mom, this is really good,” which, in our house, is basically a five-star review. Even my husband went back for seconds, and he’s usually doubtful of my last-minute “make it up as I go” meals.

The best part? It came together faster than delivery, cost maybe eight bucks total, and spared us from soggy spring rolls or service fees. It’s officially our quick, cozy, budget-friendly dinner solution.

🍜 Ingredients

Noodles

Lo mein noodles (or spaghetti) – 8 oz
Sesame oil – 1 tsp

The Sauce

Hot water – ¼ cup
Better Than Bouillon beef base – 1 tbsp
Soy sauce – 3 tbsp
Brown sugar – 2 tbsp

Everything Else

Beef, thinly sliced or ground – 1 lb
Oil for cooking – 2 tbsp
Onion, sliced – 1
Carrots, cut into sticks – 2
Broccoli florets – 2 cups
Garlic, chopped – 4 cloves

🔥 Instructions

1. Cook the noodles

Boil according to the package instructions. Drain, then toss with sesame oil to keep them from sticking.

2. Mix the sauce

Dissolve the beef base in hot water. Add soy sauce and brown sugar. Set aside.

3. Brown the beef

Heat oil in a large skillet over high heat. Sear the beef for 2–3 minutes until nicely browned. Remove and set aside.

4. Cook the vegetables

Using the same pan, sauté the onions for about 3 minutes. Add the carrots and cook 2 minutes more. Stir in the broccoli and cook an additional 2 minutes.

5. Add the garlic

Mix in the garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant.

6. Combine the mixture

Return the beef to the pan, pour in the sauce, and let everything simmer for 2 minutes.

7. Add the noodles

Toss in the cooked noodles and mix until the sauce coats every strand.

8. Serve hot

Dish up and enjoy while everything is piping hot and flavorful.