- Brown sugar or honey – 1 tbsp
- Beef broth or water – 1/4 cup
- Ground black pepper – 1/2 tsp
- Cornstarch – 1 tsp (to thicken sauce)
Instructions
1. Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the noodles until al dente according to package directions.
Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking, then set aside.
2. Brown the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook for 5–6 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula.
Drain excess grease if necessary, then transfer the beef to a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil.
Stir in the onion, garlic, carrots, cabbage, and red bell pepper.
Cook for 4–5 minutes, until vegetables are tender but still crisp.
4. Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, beef broth, black pepper, and cornstarch until smooth.
5. Combine and Toss
Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the vegetables.
Add the drained noodles and pour the sauce over everything.
Toss gently to coat the noodles and ingredients evenly. Cook 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and everything is heated through.
6. Finish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for freshness and color.
Serve hot, straight from the skillet, and enjoy the rich flavors and textures of this homemade lo mein.
Chef’s Tips
- Noodle Choice: Use lo mein noodles for an authentic texture, or spaghetti in a pinch.
- Vegetable Variations: Swap in snap peas, broccoli, or mushrooms for seasonal variety.
- Protein Swap: Try ground turkey, chicken, or tofu for a lighter alternative.
- Sauce Adjustment: Taste the sauce before adding—it can be adjusted for sweetness, saltiness, or heat.
This Ground Beef Lo Mein delivers restaurant-quality flavor at home with minimal effort, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.