Better Than Takeout: Ground Beef Lo Mein You Can Make in 30 Minutes

Looking for a fast, flavor-packed dinner that brings the comfort of your favorite takeout straight to your kitchen? This Ground Beef Lo Mein is the answer. With savory noodles, tender vegetables, and seasoned ground beef tossed in a rich, garlicky sauce — it’s a one-pan wonder that’s ready in 30 minutes or less.

It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again: family-friendly, budget-conscious, and endlessly customizable. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy Sunday, this dish satisfies every time.

🍜 Why You’ll Love Ground Beef Lo Mein

Quick & easy: Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.

Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples and affordable ground beef.

Customizable: Swap in any veggies or protein you like.

One-pan cleanup: Less mess, more flavor.

🛒 Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Ground Beef Lo Mein:

For the noodles:

8 oz lo mein noodles (or spaghetti/ramen in a pinch)

Salt, for boiling water

For the beef and veggies:

1 lb ground beef (85/15 or leaner)

2 cups shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix

1 cup carrots, julienned or shredded

1/2 cup green onions, sliced

2–3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp ginger, grated (optional but recommended)

1 tbsp vegetable oil

For the sauce:

1/4 cup soy sauce

2 tbsp oyster sauce

1 tbsp hoisin sauce

1 tsp sesame oil

1 tsp sugar

1 tsp cornstarch (for thickening)

2–3 tbsp water

🔪 Instructions

Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, sugar, cornstarch, and water. Set aside.

Brown the beef: In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

Add aromatics: Stir in garlic and ginger. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Add veggies: Toss in cabbage and carrots. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, until slightly softened.

Combine: Add cooked noodles and pour the sauce over everything. Toss to coat evenly. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.

Finish: Stir in green onions. Serve hot, optionally garnished with sesame seeds or extra scallions.

👩‍🍳 Tips & Variations