Name: Easy Beef Chow Mein: A Flavorful Weeknight Meal!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) of beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced; 8 oz (225g) chow mein noodles or Chinese egg noodles; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 cup sliced bell peppers; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1 cup sliced green onions; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional for extra richness); 1 teaspoon sesame oil; ½ teaspoon black pepper; Optional: red chili flakes for heat

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Easy Beef Chow Mein: A Flavorful Weeknight Meal! 🍜🥩✨

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a quick, delicious, and satisfying dinner, look no further than this easy Beef Chow Mein. This Beef Chow Mein recipe combines tender strips of beef, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles in a savory stir-fry sauce. It’s the ultimate weeknight meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy families or anyone craving homemade comfort food. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this homemade Beef Chow Mein is sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation.

2. Ingredients Needed for this Beef Chow Mein

1 lb (450g) of beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
8 oz (225g) chow mein noodles or Chinese egg noodles

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 cup sliced bell peppers
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup sliced green onions
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional for extra richness)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional: red chili flakes for heat

3. How to Make Homemade Beef Chow Mein

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by thinly slicing the beef against the grain. Marinate with a tablespoon of soy sauce and a teaspoon of sesame oil for 10 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Cook the chow mein or egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. This ensures the noodles are ready to absorb the stir-fry sauce and stay moist.

Step 3: Stir-fry the Vegetables

Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the bell peppers, carrots, and green onions, sautéing until crisp-tender, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Add the marinated beef to the same skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, approximately 3-5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 5: Combine Everything

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Return the beef and vegetables to the skillet. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and black pepper. Toss well to combine. Gently fold in the cooked noodles, ensuring everything is coated evenly with the sauce.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Garnish with additional green onions and a drizzle of sesame oil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this flavorful, homemade dinner favorite!

4. Tips for Perfect Beef Chow Mein

Use a wok or large skillet for high heat and even cooking.
Thinly slice the beef for quicker cooking and better tenderness.
Vary the vegetables based on what you have on hand—snap peas, mushrooms, or broccoli work well.

For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos.

5. Storage & Reheating

Save leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a hot skillet or wok, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to refresh the noodles and prevent it from drying out.

6. Serving Suggestions

Pair your easy Beef Chow Mein with steamed dumplings or a simple side of sautéed greens. It also tastes fantastic topped with a fried egg for extra richness. For an even easier dinner, you can add dumplings or comfort food sides to round out the meal.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I substitute chicken or tofu for beef?

Absolutely! This Beef Chow Mein recipe works beautifully with chicken or tofu for a vegetarian or lighter version. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The total prep and cook time is approximately 25-30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

What are common substitutions or variations?

You can use different vegetables, swap soy sauce for coconut aminos, or add chili flakes for spice. Feel free to customize based on your taste preferences.

8. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe

Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master: Make chopping your vegetables quick and easy, saving valuable time and effort.
CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensures even heat distribution and easy cleanup for stir-fry cooking.
Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1: Perfect for quick side dishes or additional crispy snacks to serve alongside your chow mein.

9. Conclusion

This easy Beef Chow Mein recipe is the perfect combination of quick preparation and rich flavors, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create an authentic Chinese-inspired dish right in your kitchen. Don’t forget to explore our other dinner recipes and upgrade your cooking arsenal with top-rated kitchen tools to make every meal a success. Happy cooking!