20 Minute Garlic Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein

If you’re craving a quick and flavorful dinner, this 20 Minute Garlic Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein is the perfect solution. Packed with tender beef, crisp broccoli, shredded carrots, and noodles tossed in a rich garlic-soy sauce, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor in a fraction of the time. It’s an easy, satisfying meal ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a takeout-style dish made right at home.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces lo mein noodles or spaghetti noodles
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 ounces flank steak, sliced against the grain
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium carrot, shredded
• ¼ cup packed brown sugar
• ¼ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• Green onion, for garnish
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pot of boiling water, cook noodles according to package directions. Add the broccoli during the last 5 minutes of cooking to soften. Drain both the noodles and broccoli.
2. Slice the flank steak thinly across the grain into ¼-inch strips.
3. In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook until no longer pink.
4. Add the garlic and shredded carrot to the skillet and cook for one additional minute until fragrant.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, ground ginger, crushed red pepper flakes, and pepper until smooth.
6. Add the drained noodles and broccoli to the skillet. Pour the sauce over and toss everything together until evenly coated and heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve Immediately: This Garlic Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein tastes best served hot and fresh, right after tossing the noodles in the flavorful sauce.
• Garnish Before Serving: Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions just before serving for a restaurant-style finish.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheat Properly: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of soy sauce or water to loosen the noodles. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can make the noodles dry.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended because noodles and vegetables can lose their texture once thawed.
• Meal Prep Tip: Cook the noodles and sauce ahead of time and store separately. Toss them together before serving for the best flavor and consistency.

Variations

1. Chicken Lo Mein: Substitute beef with sliced chicken breast for a lighter, lean protein version.
2. Shrimp Lo Mein: Add cooked shrimp instead of beef for a seafood twist full of flavor.
3. Vegetable Lo Mein: Skip the meat entirely and load up on mushrooms, bell peppers, and snow peas for a vegetarian-friendly dish.
4. Spicy Lo Mein: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a fiery version.
5. Pork Lo Mein: Replace beef with thinly sliced pork tenderloin for a savory alternative.
6. Tofu Lo Mein: Add crispy tofu cubes for a satisfying plant-based meal packed with protein.
7. Mushroom and Broccoli Lo Mein: Increase the umami flavor with a mix of button and shiitake mushrooms.
8. Teriyaki Lo Mein: Swap hoisin sauce with teriyaki sauce for a sweeter and tangier twist.
9. Cashew Lo Mein: Add roasted cashews or peanuts for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
10. Sweet Chili Lo Mein: Mix in a tablespoon of sweet chili sauce to create a sweet-spicy balance.
11. Sesame Lo Mein: Double the sesame oil and add toasted sesame seeds for a deeper sesame flavor.
12. Zucchini Lo Mein: Add spiralized zucchini noodles with regular noodles for a lower-carb option.
13. Ginger Garlic Lo Mein: Increase both garlic and ginger for a bold, aromatic kick.
14. Honey Soy Lo Mein: Add a tablespoon of honey to the sauce for a touch of natural sweetness.
15. Low-Sodium Lo Mein: Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce brown sugar for a heart-healthier option.

FAQs

1. Can I use other noodles instead of lo mein?
   Yes, spaghetti, ramen, or rice noodles all make great substitutes.
2. What cut of beef is best for this recipe?
   Flank steak or sirloin works best because they cook quickly and remain tender.
3. Can I make it ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prep the sauce and chop ingredients beforehand; combine and heat just before serving.
4. Is this dish spicy?
   It’s mildly spicy; adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
5. Can I use frozen broccoli?
   Yes, just thaw and drain it before adding to the skillet.
6. Can I double the recipe?
   Absolutely, double all ingredients and use a large wok or pan for even cooking.
7. How do I make it vegetarian?
   Simply skip the beef and use tofu or extra veggies instead.
8. Can I replace hoisin sauce with something else?
   Yes, use teriyaki sauce or oyster sauce for a different but equally delicious flavor.
9. What can I serve with Garlic Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein?
   Pair it with egg rolls, wontons, or a light cucumber salad for a complete meal.
10. How do I prevent overcooking the beef?
    Cook it over high heat for just a few minutes until no longer pink to keep it tender.

This 20 Minute Garlic Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein is a simple yet flavorful dinner that’s ready in no time. The balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes combined with tender beef and fresh vegetables makes this meal a standout. Perfect for anyone who loves Asian-inspired dishes but wants a fast homemade version that’s healthier and more affordable than takeout.

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