Ground Beef Lo Mein – Easy Chinese-Inspired Noodle Recipe for Busy Weeknights

Looking for a quick and satisfying dinner that the whole family will love? This Ground Beef Lo Mein is a flavorful, budget-friendly twist on classic Chinese takeout. Made with tender noodles, savory ground beef, crisp vegetables, and a rich homemade lo mein sauce, this easy recipe comes together in just 30 minutes.

Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you’re craving takeout without leaving the house!

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Lo Mein Recipe

• ✅ Ready in 30 minutes

• ✅ Simple pantry ingredients

• ✅ Better than takeout

• ✅ Family-friendly

• ✅ Great for leftovers

This homemade Ground Beef Lo Mein delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.

What Is Lo Mein?

Lo Mein is a popular Chinese noodle dish traditionally made with wheat egg noodles, vegetables, and protein tossed in a savory soy-based sauce. While you might find chicken, shrimp, or pork in restaurant versions, this recipe uses affordable ground beef for a hearty and delicious variation.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Lo Mein

For the Noodles:

• 8 oz lo mein noodles (or spaghetti as a substitute)

• Water for boiling

For the Beef & Vegetables:

• 1 lb lean ground beef

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

• 1 cup shredded carrots

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 cup snap peas

• 3 green onions, sliced

For the Lo Mein Sauce:

• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce

• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Ground Beef Lo Mein

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Boil lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Stir in garlic and ginger. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

Add carrots, bell pepper, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, and black pepper.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add cooked noodles to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the mixture and toss until evenly coated. Cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Top with sliced green onions and serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Ground Beef Lo Mein

• Use fresh lo mein noodles if available for authentic texture.

• Don’t overcook the vegetables — they should stay slightly crisp.

• For extra spice, add red pepper flakes or sriracha.

• Make it healthier by using whole wheat noodles.

Variations

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken

• Add broccoli, mushrooms, or bok choy

• Make it spicy with chili garlic sauce

• Add scrambled eggs for extra protein

Storage & Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce.

• This recipe is not ideal for freezing due to noodle texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use spaghetti instead of lo mein noodles?

Yes! Spaghetti works great if lo mein noodles aren’t available.

Is Ground Beef Lo Mein authentic?

This is an American-style Chinese-inspired version designed for home cooks.

How do I prevent noodles from sticking?

Toss them lightly with oil after draining if not using immediately.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef Lo Mein recipe is the perfect combination of savory, satisfying, and simple. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this easy Chinese-inspired noodle dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor at home.

Make it tonight and skip the takeout!