If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dish that balances savory beef, crunchy vegetables, and irresistible noodles, look no further than Beef Chow Mein with Crispy Noodles.

This classic takeout favorite combines tender strips of beef with crisp stir-fried veggies, all tossed in a rich, umami-packed sauce.

The highlight? Golden, crunchy noodles that bring the perfect texture contrast to every bite.

Whether you’re recreating a Chinese restaurant favorite at home or just want a quick and satisfying dinner, this recipe will hit the spot.

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What is Beef Chow Mein?

“Chow Mein” translates to “stir-fried noodles” in Cantonese. Traditionally, it can be made with soft noodles or crispy ones.

In this version, the noodles are pan-fried until golden and crunchy, creating a delicious nest for the saucy beef and vegetables.

The combination of crispy noodles, tender beef, and savory sauce makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe—you can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the sauce to your liking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy noodles add an irresistible crunch.
Quick & easy—ready in about 30 minutes.
Customizable with any vegetables you have on hand.
Better than takeout—fresh, flavorful, and budget-friendly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Beef Marinade:

300g (10 oz) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
2 tsp soy sauce
1 tsp oyster sauce
1 tsp cornstarch
½ tsp sesame oil

For the Sauce:

3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp hoisin sauce
2 tsp cornstarch (mixed with 3 tbsp water)
1 tsp sugar
½ cup beef broth (or water)

For the Noodles & Stir-Fry:

200g (7 oz) chow mein noodles (or thin egg noodles)
2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying noodles)
2 tbsp vegetable oil (for stir-fry)
1 onion, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
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1 cup bean sprouts
1 small carrot, julienned
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 green onions, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

In a bowl, combine sliced beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil.
Mix well and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. This tenderizes the beef and infuses flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Boil chow mein noodles according to package instructions, then drain well.
Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large non-stick pan or wok.
Spread the noodles evenly and let them fry undisturbed for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Beef and Veggies

In the same wok, heat 2 tbsp oil.
Add marinated beef and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
Add onion, bell pepper, carrot, and garlic. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes.
Toss in bean sprouts and half the green onions.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, and beef broth.
Pour into the wok and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return beef to the wok and toss with sauce and vegetables.
Place crispy noodles on a serving plate.
Pour the beef and vegetable mixture over the noodles.
Garnish with the remaining green onions.

Serving Suggestions

Serve immediately while the noodles are still crisp.
Pair with hot jasmine rice if you’d like a heartier meal.
Add chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.

Tips for the Best Beef Chow Mein

Slice beef thinly against the grain for tenderness.
Don’t overcook noodles before frying—they’ll crisp better if slightly underdone.
Use a wok if possible for that authentic smoky flavor (wok hei).
Customize veggies—bok choy, snow peas, or mushrooms all work beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken or shrimp instead of beef?
Absolutely! Chow mein works with any protein—just adjust cooking time so it doesn’t overcook.

2. Do I have to make the noodles crispy?
No, you can leave them soft if you prefer traditional chow mein. The crispy version just adds an extra crunch.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
The beef and sauce can be prepped ahead, but fry the noodles just before serving to keep them crispy.

4. What noodles work best?
Egg noodles or chow mein noodles are ideal, but thin spaghetti can work in a pinch.

Final Thoughts

Beef Chow Mein with Crispy Noodles is the perfect combination of textures and flavors—crispy, saucy, tender, and savory all at once. Once you try making it at home, you’ll see how simple, customizable, and satisfying it can be.

Skip the takeout and treat yourself to this delicious homemade version—you won’t regret it.

Beef Chow Mein Recipe with Crispy Noodles

This Beef Chow Mein with Crispy Noodles combines tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a savory sauce served over golden, crunchy noodles for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 30

Servings: 4

Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course

Cuisine: asian, French

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

300 g 10 oz beef (flank steak or sirloin), thinly sliced
2 tsp soy sauce
1 tsp oyster sauce
1 tsp cornstarch
½ tsp sesame oil
200 g 7 oz chow mein noodles
4 tbsp vegetable oil divided
1 onion sliced
1 red bell pepper sliced
1 small carrot julienned
1 cup bean sprouts
2 cloves garlic minced
2 green onions chopped

Sauce:

3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp hoisin sauce
1 tsp sugar
½ cup beef broth
2 tsp cornstarch + 3 tbsp water slurry

Method

Marinate beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Rest for 15 minutes.
Cook noodles, drain, then pan-fry in oil until crispy on both sides. Set aside.
Stir-fry beef in a hot wok until browned. Remove.
Stir-fry onion, bell pepper, carrot, and garlic for 2–3 minutes. Add bean sprouts and half the green onions.
Mix sauce ingredients, add to wok, and thicken with cornstarch slurry.
Return beef to wok, toss everything together.
Serve over crispy noodles and garnish with remaining green onions.