Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy, golden-brown noodles that contrast beautifully with the tender beef
- A rich, umami-packed sauce that enhances every bite
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables and proteins
- A restaurant-quality meal that can be made at home at a fraction of the cost
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 8 oz beef (flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye), thinly sliced
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 8 oz fresh or dried egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sliced onions
- 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup bok choy or baby spinach
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Directions
- Marinate the Beef – In a bowl, mix the beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, and sugar. Let it marinate for 15–20 minutes.
- Prepare the Noodles – Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Pan-Fry the Noodles – Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Spread the cooked noodles in an even layer and let them fry for 3–4 minutes until crispy and golden. Flip and repeat on the other side. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Beef – In the same pan, heat another tablespoon of oil. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry until browned. Remove from the pan.
- Sauté the Vegetables – Add garlic, onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, and bok choy. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender.
- Make the Sauce – Pour in the beef broth, oyster sauce, and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens.
- Combine Everything – Return the beef to the pan and mix well. Drizzle in sesame oil.
- Assemble and Serve – Place the crispy noodles on a plate and pour the beef and vegetable mixture on top. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2–3
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version – Add chili flakes or a teaspoon of chili paste for extra heat.
- Different Proteins – Swap the beef for chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Extra Veggies – Try adding carrots, snap peas, or bean sprouts for more crunch.
- Gluten-Free – Use rice noodles and gluten-free soy sauce.
- Low-Carb – Substitute with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating – Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving as it can make the noodles soggy.
- Freezing – It’s best to freeze the beef and sauce separately from the noodles to maintain texture.
FAQs
How do I keep the noodles crispy?
After frying, place the noodles on a cooling rack instead of a plate to prevent them from getting soggy.
Can I use dried noodles instead of fresh ones?
Yes, just cook them according to the package instructions before pan-frying.
What’s the best beef cut for this dish?
Flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye work best due to their tenderness and flavor.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, replace the beef with tofu or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
What’s the secret to tender beef?
Marinating with cornstarch and soy sauce helps tenderize the meat.
Can I use other sauces?
You can add hoisin sauce or black bean sauce for different flavor profiles.
Is this dish spicy?
No, but you can add chili paste or sriracha for heat.
Can I meal prep this dish?
Yes, prepare the sauce and marinate the beef ahead of time. Cook the noodles fresh for best results.
What can I serve with beef pan-fried noodles?
Pair it with egg drop soup, dumplings, or a simple cucumber salad.
Can I cook everything in one pan?
Yes, but frying the noodles separately first ensures they stay crispy.
Conclusion
Beef pan-fried noodles are the perfect combination of crispy noodles, tender beef, and a savory sauce, making it a must-try dish for any noodle lover. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe delivers both taste and texture in every bite. Try it today and enjoy a homemade version of this restaurant favorite.
