Main course

Beef and Broccoli Noodles – Friendsgiving Food Ideas

Name: Beef and Broccoli Noodles – Friendsgiving Food Ideas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: Here’s your shopping list:; 1 large head of broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets; 2 garlic cloves, finely minced; 1.5 tbsp peanut oil or any neutral vegetable oil; 1 tsp fresh ginger, finely grated; 400 – 400 450 g / 14 – 15 oz fresh egg noodles; 1/2 medium onion, thinly sliced; 350 – 350 400 g / 12 – 14 oz beef rump or tenderloin, thinly sliced; 1 tsp oyster sauce; 1/4 tsp ground pepper; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 1/2 cup 1/2 / 125 ml water; 2 tbsp dark soy sauce; 0 0.5 toasted sesame oil; 1 tbsp 1.5 light soy sauce; 1 tbsp 1.5 Chinese cooking wine; 1 tsp white sugar; 1/8 tsp Chinese five-spice powder; Freshly chopped green onions/scallions; Toasted sesame seeds

Iris Miller August 23, 2025

Servings: 4 Total Time: 20 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Beef and broccoli noodles can stand alone as a meal, but why not elevate this culinary experience? Here’s a quick hit list of things to consider pairing alongside your dish:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: A classic choice that soaks up the flavors beautifully.
2. Spring Rolls: Crispy and filled with fresh veggies, these make for a great appetizer.
3. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of this savory soup complements the saltiness of the noodles.
4. Chili Oil: Drizzle a little over your finished dish for extra kick.
5. Refreshing Cucumber Salad: A quick and easy side that cools it all down.

Let me start by painting a picture: it’s a Thursday evening, and you’re staring down an empty kitchen. You know you want something scrumptious, but you just can’t muster the energy to cook for an hour. Enter beef and broccoli noodles—your solution to a busy weeknight dinner!

When I first stumbled upon this dish, it was during a cold winter night. As a food enthusiast, I thought, “How does this one-take wonders like beef and broccoli noodles not get a starring role at every dinner table?” I decided to test it out, and let me tell you, it transformed my weeknight meals.

This dish has something for everyone—it’s savory, satisfying, and oh boy, it’s easy to whip up. It boasts crispy broccoli, tender beef, and a delicious sauce that you’ll want to pour over everything. Let’s unravel the magic behind beef and broccoli noodles, shall we?

What is Beef and Broccoli Noodles?

Simply put, it’s a delightful noodle dish that combines tender beef slices with bright, crisp broccoli, all bathed in a savory sauce. Think of it as a love letter between Chinese and Western flavors. The noodles serve as the perfect canvas, soaking up the sauce while the beef lends a satisfying bite. This essence creates a meal that’s filling without being heavy.

Typically, the dish is made with egg noodles or similar varieties that offer a chewy texture. The impressive part? The beef retains its juices while the broccoli provides that much-needed crunch. Each forkful has a punch of flavor that dances on your palate. It’s comfort food, but with a flair. So, why wouldn’t you want to make it?

Why You’ll Love Beef and Broccoli Noodles

Let me break it down into digestible bites (pun intended!):

Quick and Easy: In a rush? You can have this meal prepped and on the table in just about 30 minutes.
Balanced, Balanced, Balanced: We’re talking about a wholesome mix of protein, fiber, and vitamins. With beef and broccoli anchoring the dish, headaches about nutrition sink away.
Kid-Approved: Have picky eaters? This is a great choice for little ones who may be resisting vegetables. Who doesn’t love noodles? Adding a little soy sauce gives kids a familiar taste.
Flavor Explosion: It’s got umami down to an art. From garlic to soy sauce and sesame oil, this dish is a harmony of flavors that resonate well.
Meal Prep Friendly: You can cook this in bigger quantities and enjoy leftovers for days to come, saving both time and money.

With those points laid out, how could you not want to jump into this beefy noodle adventure?

The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Beef and Broccoli Noodles

Here’s your shopping list:

1 large head of broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
1.5 tbsp peanut oil or any neutral vegetable oil
1 tsp fresh ginger, finely grated
400 – 450 g / 14 – 15 oz fresh egg noodles (Hokkien, lo mein, or Singapore-style, refrigerated)
1/2 medium onion, thinly sliced
350 – 400 g / 12 – 14 oz beef rump or tenderloin, thinly sliced (or you could choose another quick-cooking cut)

For the Sauce:

1 tsp oyster sauce (for some deep umami flavor)
1/4 tsp ground pepper (white or black)
1 tbsp cornstarch
1/2 cup / 125 ml water
2 tbsp dark soy sauce
0.5 tsp toasted sesame oil
1.5 tbsp light soy sauce
1.5 tbsp Chinese cooking wine (Shaoxing wine)
1 tsp white sugar (leave this out if you’re using mirin)
1/8 tsp Chinese five-spice powder

Optional Garnishes:

Freshly chopped green onions/scallions
Toasted sesame seeds

Directions to Make Beef and Broccoli Noodles

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

First, gather all your ingredients and have everything prepped. Mince the garlic, grate the ginger, and slice your beef thinly. Trust me, it saves time in the long run.

Step 2: Blanch the Broccoli

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in the broccoli florets. Cook for about 2 minutes until they turn vibrant green, then remove them and toss them in ice water to stop the cooking. This step locks in color and crunch.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet or wok, heat the peanut oil over medium-high heat. Add in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Give them a quick stir; you’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen starts smelling absolutely divine.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Next, toss in the sliced beef. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until browned and fully cooked but still tender. Don’t overcook it! We want tender bites, not shoe leather. Remember to season it lightly with pepper.

Step 5: Add the Onion and Blanched Broccoli

With the beef cooked, add the sliced onion. Sauté till it softens, about 2 minutes, and then gently fold in your blanched broccoli. Let everything mingle in the pan for a minute or so.

Step 6: Create the Sauce

Now, mix together the sauce ingredients. In a bowl, combine the oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, light soy sauce, and the cornstarch with water. Stir this into your beef and broccoli mixture.

Step 7: Cook the Noodles

While your stir-fry is thickening, it’s time for your noodles. Bring another pot of water to boil for the noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions. Drain well, then add them to the skillet, tossing to combine with the beef and broccoli.

Step 8: Final Touches

Finish it off with sesame oil and Chinese cooking wine. Taste and adjust your sauce if needed—it might need a tad more soy or sugar depending on your preference.

Step 9: Serve and Garnish

Plate up your beef and broccoli noodles. Top with freshly chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Enjoy hot!

Notes on Making the Best Beef and Broccoli Noodles

Choose the Right Beef Cut: Tenderloin or rump provides the best texture. Thin slicing goes a long way in tenderness.
Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: It should be bright and crisp, not mushy!
Cornstarch for Thickening: Mixing it with water ensures it doesn’t clump when added to the pan.
Prepare in Advance: Marinate the beef for a couple of hours to infuse flavor, or pre-cut your veggies if you’re in a rush.
Adjust Spice Levels: If you want heat, add a splash of chili oil or fresh chilies while cooking.

Storage Tips

Leftovers? Store the noodles in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to revive the noodles. You can also freeze the dish for a month if you need a hearty meal ready to go!

Nutrition Information

One serving of beef and broccoli noodles contains approximately:

Calories: 450
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Fats: 15g

Nutritional values can change based on specific portion sizes and ingredients, so feel free to adjust them based on your needs!

Serving Suggestions

Pair with Cleaner Greens: Have a salad on the side—sliced cucumbers, a dash of vinegar, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Serve with Soy Sauce: Keep a small bowl of soy sauce on the table for extra flavor enhancing.
Add a Side of Tofu: Grilled or fried tofu offers great texture contrast and adds plant protein.
Enjoy with Hot Sauce: A few drops of hot sauce can ignite the flavors.
Complement with Steamed Egg: A light, fluffy steamed egg makes for a comforting side.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Beef and Broccoli Noodles?

Chicken: Chicken breast works wonderfully if you want a lighter protein option.
Tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu can easily replace meat for a vegetarian alternative.
Rice Noodles: Rice noodles provide a gluten-free option that soaks up the flavors well.
Zucchini Noodles: For a lower-carb approach, spiralized zucchini adds a fun twist.
Other Vegetables: Feel free to use bell peppers, carrots, or even snap peas in place of broccoli.

Conclusion

Beef and broccoli noodles offer that comforting feel of home-cooked meals. I’ve come to cherish this dish not only for its quick preparation but also for its burst of flavors. Whether you’re cooking for just yourself or entertaining guests, you can’t go wrong.

It stands tall among quick evening meals that fit the bill for both nutrition and flavor. So go ahead, give it a try, and watch it become a household favorite. With minimal effort and maximum satisfaction, it’s hard to find a better dish out there!

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Print Recipe

Beef and Broccoli Noodles – Friendsgiving Food Ideas

Author: Iris Miller Cuisine: American Courses: Main course

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 10 mins Total Time 20 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 450

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Let me start by painting a picture: it’s a Thursday evening, and you’re staring down an empty kitchen. You know you want something scrumptious, but you just can't muster the energy to cook for an hour. Enter beef and broccoli noodles—your solution to a busy weeknight dinner!

This dish has something for everyone—it’s savory, satisfying, and oh boy, it’s easy to whip up. It boasts crispy broccoli, tender beef, and a delicious sauce that you'll want to pour over everything. Let’s unravel the magic behind beef and broccoli noodles, shall we?