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Easy 15-Minute Lo Mein Noodles

Easy 15-Minute Lo Mein Noodles

Easy 15-Minute Lo Mein Noodles are your shortcut to a delicious and satisfying stir-fry that's perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe delivers authentic lo mein flavor with minimal effort, proving that incredible meals can be made in a flash.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: asian

Ingredients
  

  • ounces lo mein noodles fresh or dried
  • tablespoon vegetable oil or other neutral oil like canola or peanut
  • cup your favorite protein, thinly sliced e.g., cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or thinly sliced beef
  • cups mixed stir-fry vegetables, pre-cut e.g., broccoli florets, sliced carrots, snow peas, sliced bell peppers, chopped mushrooms
  • cloves garlic, minced
  • teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • tablespoon oyster sauce omit for vegetarian/vegan, or use mushroom stir-fry sauce
  • tablespoon Shaoxing wine or dry sherry, or omit
  • teaspoon sesame oil
  • teaspoon cornstarch or arrowroot starch
  • tablespoons water

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Small Bowl

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Noodles: If using dried lo mein noodles, cook them according to package directions until just al dente. Drain them thoroughly and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. If you're using fresh noodles, they typically only need a brief blanch in boiling water for a minute or two, then drain. Set aside.
    ounces lo mein noodles
  2. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients: soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine (if using), sesame oil, cornstarch, and water. Make sure the cornstarch is fully dissolved to avoid lumps. Set this sauce mixture aside.
    tablespoons soy sauce, tablespoon oyster sauce, tablespoon Shaoxing wine, teaspoon sesame oil, teaspoon cornstarch, tablespoons water
  3. Stir-Fry Aromatics and Protein: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Add your chosen protein (e.g., cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu) and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until heated through or lightly browned. If using raw protein like thinly sliced beef or chicken, cook it until no longer pink.
    tablespoon vegetable oil, cloves garlic, minced, teaspoon fresh ginger, grated, cup your favorite protein, thinly sliced
  4. Add Vegetables: Toss in the pre-cut mixed stir-fry vegetables. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are tender-crisp. You want them to retain a slight crunch for the best texture.
    cups mixed stir-fry vegetables, pre-cut
  5. Combine Everything: Add the cooked lo mein noodles to the skillet with the vegetables and protein. Pour the prepared sauce mixture over everything.
    ounces lo mein noodles, cup your favorite protein, thinly sliced, cups mixed stir-fry vegetables, pre-cut, tablespoons soy sauce, tablespoon oyster sauce, tablespoon Shaoxing wine, teaspoon sesame oil, teaspoon cornstarch, tablespoons water
  6. Toss and Thicken: Toss all the ingredients together gently but thoroughly, ensuring the noodles, protein, and vegetables are evenly coated in the sauce. Continue to cook and stir for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and cling to the noodles. The cornstarch in the sauce will work its magic to create a luscious coating.
  7. Serve Immediately: Remove from heat and serve your Easy 15-Minute Lo Mein Noodles hot. Garnish with your favorite toppings if desired.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on stovetop for best texture, or microwave.
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