There’s something downright magical about digging into a bowl of Lo Mein Noodles: glossy strands tumbling with crisp-tender veggies and a savory sauce that clings to every bite. This dish isn’t just a takeout staple—it’s comfort food at its finest, bursting with color and just begging for your favorite add-ins. Whether you’re in the mood for a last-minute dinner or want to impress your friends with homemade Asian-inspired flavor, Lo Mein Noodles deliver that irresistible combination of chewy noodles and umami-packed sauce every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Lo Mein Noodles lies in simple, accessible ingredients coming together to create something truly mouthwatering. Every component adds something special, from springy noodles and vibrant veggies to aromatic sauces that give the dish its classic depth and sheen.
- Lo mein noodles or spaghetti (8 oz): These are the backbone of your dish; lo mein noodles offer that signature texture, but spaghetti works in a pinch.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Provides a neutral base for stir-frying your ingredients and gives the veggies a gorgeous gloss.
- Sliced bell peppers (1 cup): Use a colorful mix of red, yellow, or green for crunch and visual wow factor.
- Shredded carrots (1 cup): Adds sweetness and a lovely bite to balance out the savory notes.
- Sliced mushrooms (1 cup): Brings an earthy, meaty quality even without any added protein.
- Sliced green onions (1/2 cup): Tucked in at the end for a pop of sharpness and color—don’t skip them!
- Minced garlic (2 cloves): Fragrant and punchy, garlic provides a foundational flavor.
- Fresh ginger (1 teaspoon, grated): Lends subtle warmth and complexity that makes these noodles sing.
- Low-sodium soy sauce (1/4 cup): The salty, rich soul of the sauce—using low-sodium means you control the seasoning.
- Oyster sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds deep, savory, slightly sweet notes crucial to classic lo mein flavor.
- Hoisin sauce (1 tablespoon): Glossy and robust, this gives your Lo Mein Noodles their sticky-sweet finish.
- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Pure aromatic magic—just a drizzle at the end perfumes the whole dish.
- Sugar (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the saltiness for a well-rounded sauce.
- Optional protein (1 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu): Use whatever leftover protein you have to make it heartier and tailor to your preferences.
How to Make Lo Mein Noodles
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then cook the lo mein noodles (or spaghetti) according to the package directions. You want them al dente—not mushy! Drain thoroughly and set aside. If they’re sticking together, a quick toss with a teaspoon of oil will keep them loose and ready for the next step.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and sugar. This magic mixture is where all those signature Lo Mein Noodles flavors come from, and getting it ready ahead means you can move quickly once things are sizzling.
Step 3: Start the Aromatics
Heat your vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. As soon as it shimmers, add the garlic and ginger. Stir for about 30 seconds until you’re hit with that incredible fragrance—don’t let the garlic burn, just let it get a little golden and fragrant.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Veggies
Add the bell peppers, carrots, and mushrooms. Keep those veggies moving for about 4 to 5 minutes until they’re just tender-crisp—bright with color and bursting with flavor, but not limp. If you’re adding a protein like chicken, shrimp, or tofu, toss it in now to get heated through.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Add your drained noodles and pour over the sauce mixture. Grab your tongs or two forks and toss everything together, making sure the noodles are evenly coated and glossy. Stir-fry for another 2 to 3 minutes until everything is piping hot and completely combined.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Turn off the heat and sprinkle over your green onions just before serving. These add freshness and a little crunch right at the end—your Lo Mein Noodles are ready to steal the show!
How to Serve Lo Mein Noodles
Garnishes
When it comes to finishing touches, a sprinkle of sliced green onions is classic, but you can also add toasted sesame seeds or a shower of fresh cilantro if you love a vibrant pop of green. Chili oil or a drizzle of sriracha gives a gentle heat for those who crave a little extra kick on their Lo Mein Noodles.
Side Dishes
Pair these noodles with a light cucumber salad, steamed edamame, or crunchy spring rolls for a meal that feels like a homemade feast. For extra veggies, quickly stir-fried bok choy or snow peas are always a wonderful match.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow your eaters, serve the Lo Mein Noodles straight from a wok at the table or twist each portion into a nest on individual plates. Layer on more fresh toppings, or serve in colorful bowls for a playful, inviting look—you can even let everyone customize their noodles with bowls of garnishes on the side!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Lo Mein Noodles store surprisingly well. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The noodles will soak up even more of that delicious sauce, becoming even tastier by the next day.
Freezing
While fresh is best, you can freeze Lo Mein Noodles if you need to. Pack portions tightly in freezer-safe containers, squeezing out as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, pop your noodles into a skillet with a splash of water or broth and stir over medium heat just until heated through. This helps loosen the sauce and restores that fresh, glossy finish. The microwave works in a pinch, but you’ll get the best flavor on the stovetop.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While traditional lo mein noodles are ideal, spaghetti or even linguine works wonderfully if that’s what you have. Just make sure to cook them until just tender so they can soak up the sauce.
How can I make Lo Mein Noodles gluten-free?
Simply substitute the noodles with a gluten-free pasta or rice noodles and be sure to use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. Also, confirm that your oyster and hoisin sauces are gluten-free.
What vegetables work best in Lo Mein Noodles?
The recipe is flexible—try broccoli, snap peas, napa cabbage, or baby corn in addition to the suggested veggies. Use what’s in season or whatever you have on hand.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Definitely! Use tofu as your protein, pick a vegan oyster sauce substitute, and check your hoisin sauce label to make sure it’s plant-based. You’ll have a wholly satisfying vegan Lo Mein Noodles dish.
Is there a way to make Lo Mein Noodles spicier?
Of course—stir in some chili garlic paste or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat. Serve with chili oil on the side so everyone can add their preferred kick.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been craving that cozy, takeout-style noodle fix, making these Lo Mein Noodles at home will honestly become a go-to favorite. They’re endlessly adaptable, quick to pull together, and every twirl is just packed with flavor and texture. I can’t wait for you to give this recipe a try and make it your own—you’ll be reaching for seconds before you know it!
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Lo Mein Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and easy Lo Mein Noodles recipe that’s perfect for a quick and flavorful Asian-inspired meal. Loaded with colorful veggies, savory sauces, and optional protein, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Noodles:
- 8 oz lo mein noodles or spaghetti
Stir-Fry:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
Sauce:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
Optional Protein:
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Prepare the noodles according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and sugar; set aside.
- Stir-fry: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok, sauté garlic and ginger. Add bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms, and optional protein. Toss in noodles and sauce mixture, stir-fry until heated through.
- Serve: Top with green onions before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute lo mein noodles with spaghetti.
- For added heat, include chili garlic sauce or red pepper flakes.
- This recipe is versatile with various protein options such as chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
