If you’re craving comfort food that comes together in a flash and feels like pure takeout magic, you’re about to fall in love with Easy Beef & Broccoli Noodles. This dish delivers all the savory-sweet, umami-packed flavors of your favorite stir-fry, with tender noodles, juicy strips of beef, and vibrant broccoli in a glossy, irresistible sauce. It has that “just one more bite” quality, and the best part is how quick and fuss-free it is — perfect for busy nights or whenever you’re desperate for a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Easy Beef & Broccoli Noodles is just how wonderfully simple the ingredient list is. Each item works its magic to bring out bold flavors, varied textures, and eye-catching colors that make this dish downright addictive.
- Lo mein noodles (8 oz): Classic lo mein has a chewy bite, but spaghetti works as a great substitute for the perfect noodle base.
- Flank steak (1 lb, thinly sliced): Slicing against the grain ensures melts-in-your-mouth beef that’s big on flavor.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups): This veggie adds crunch, color, and soaks up all that delicious sauce.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons, divided): Great for high-heat cooking and gives everything a beautiful sear.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic is essential for deep, aromatic flavor.
- Fresh ginger (1 teaspoon, grated): A hint of zing brightens the dish and plays perfectly with the sauces.
- Low-sodium soy sauce (1/3 cup): The backbone of the sauce for that signature savory kick.
- Oyster sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds rich, umami notes you’ll absolutely crave.
- Hoisin sauce (2 tablespoons): A touch of sweetness and complexity rounds out the flavor.
- Brown sugar (1 tablespoon): Balances the salty and savory components beautifully.
- Cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water): Thickens the sauce so it perfectly coats every noodle.
- Beef broth or water (1/4 cup): Deepens the sauce’s flavor (broth gives it a leg up!), but water works in a pinch.
- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Just a tiny drizzle elevates everything with nutty aroma.
- Green onions (2, sliced): A fresh, crisp garnish that brings color and a subtle bite.
- Sesame seeds (1 tablespoon, optional): For a final flourish of crunch and toasty flavor on top.
How to Make Easy Beef & Broccoli Noodles
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Drop in your lo mein noodles (or spaghetti) and cook according to package directions until just al dente — you want them chewy, not mushy! Drain and set them aside; you’ll toss them into the skillet later, but they’re happiest when not overcooked.
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
Either steam or blanch your broccoli for 2–3 minutes. This helps the florets become brilliantly green and just tender, keeping their crunch and vitality for your Easy Beef & Broccoli Noodles. Immediately set them aside so they don’t overcook.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the thinly sliced steak in a single layer. Cook quickly, tossing occasionally, for 3–4 minutes. The goal is for each piece to brown beautifully without overcooking. Once done, transfer the beef to a plate to rest briefly.
Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for about a minute. You’ll know they’re ready as soon as your kitchen smells amazing — this stage builds the flavor base for the whole dish.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, and that tiny but mighty splash of sesame oil. Once blended, pour the mixture straight into your skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. This is the heart of Easy Beef & Broccoli Noodles: bold, savory, and just sweet enough.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
Give your corn starch slurry a quick stir, then add it to the simmering sauce. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring gently; you’ll see the sauce transform into a silky glaze that hugs every ingredient in the pan.
Step 7: Combine Everything
Add the cooked steak, steamed broccoli, and noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together until it’s beautifully coated and heated through. The noodles will soak up the sauce, the beef will finish cooking in the heat, and the broccoli stays bright and perky. Your Easy Beef & Broccoli Noodles are ready for their final touches!
How to Serve Easy Beef & Broccoli Noodles
Garnishes
A generous sprinkle of sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top adds not just color, but lively texture and a nutty pop. If you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of sriracha on each serving gives customizable heat without overtaking those wonderful flavors.
Side Dishes
While Easy Beef & Broccoli Noodles are truly satisfying as a one-bowl meal, a side of crunchy spring rolls or a simple cucumber salad offers a refreshing contrast. A bowl of miso soup or some quick-pickled veggies pairs beautifully and adds a restaurant-like touch to your home table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun family-style dinner, serve the noodles piled high on a large platter so everyone can help themselves. Or, portion them into individual bowls and top with extra garnishes for a more elegant, bistro-style vibe. If you have leftover steak, slice it thin and fan it on top for an Instagram-ready finish!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Beef & Broccoli Noodles keep very well in the fridge. Transfer cooled noodles to an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. The sauce prevents the noodles from drying out, making leftovers satisfying the next day.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze your noodles for later if you like! Spoon them into freezer-safe bags or containers, squeezing out as much air as possible. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to 2 months. For the best results, try freezing in portioned batches so you only thaw what you’ll eat.
Reheating
To reheat, simply toss leftovers in a skillet or wok over medium heat with a splash of water or beef broth to loosen things up. Avoid the microwave if possible, as the noodles can get a little tough, but a quick stir-fry returns them to their former glory in minutes.
FAQs
Can I use chicken or shrimp instead of beef?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in sliced chicken breast or peeled shrimp for an equally delicious take on Easy Beef & Broccoli Noodles. Just adjust cooking times: chicken should be cooked through, and shrimp need only a couple of minutes until pink and curled.
What if I don’t have lo mein noodles?
No worries — regular spaghetti makes a fantastic substitute. You could also use rice noodles or any long, stir-fry-friendly noodle you have on hand. The sauce will coat different noodles beautifully, so use what’s convenient for you.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like a little heat, add sriracha or red pepper flakes right into the sauce or sprinkle on top before serving. You can also toss in diced fresh chilies with the garlic and ginger for a punchier version of Easy Beef & Broccoli Noodles.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Definitely. Look for gluten-free noodles (like rice noodles or gluten-free spaghetti) and ensure your soy sauce, oyster sauce, and hoisin sauce are certified gluten-free. With a few easy swaps, your bowl will be every bit as flavorful!
Can I meal prep this recipe?
Yes! Cook everything, let it cool, and portion into individual containers for grab-and-go lunches or dinners. The flavors develop even more as they sit, making Easy Beef & Broccoli Noodles an amazing meal prep option.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for the ultimate easy weeknight dinner that feels both special and effortless, you can’t go wrong with Easy Beef & Broccoli Noodles. It’s one of those recipes that brings everyone running to the table, and I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own!
Print
Easy Beef & Broccoli Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Satisfy your cravings with this quick and flavorful recipe for Easy Beef & Broccoli Noodles. Tender slices of beef, crisp broccoli, and savory sauce tossed with noodles make this a perfect Asian-inspired meal for any night of the week.
Ingredients
For the Noodles:
- 8 oz lo mein noodles (or spaghetti)
For the Beef & Broccoli:
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Cook noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Beef & Broccoli: Steam or blanch broccoli for 2–3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp; set aside. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add steak and cook for 3–4 minutes until browned; set aside. Add remaining oil, then sauté garlic and ginger for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, and sesame oil. Pour sauce into the skillet, bring to a simmer. Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook 1–2 minutes until thickened.
- Combine Ingredients: Add cooked steak, broccoli, and noodles to the skillet, tossing until well coated and heated through.
- Serve: Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
- For an added kick, consider spicing up the sauce with sriracha or red pepper flakes.
- Feel free to swap beef with chicken or shrimp, and any leftovers reheat beautifully with a splash of water or broth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 1180 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 62 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
