Beef Chow Mein Recipe (Better Than Takeout!) | Quick, Savoury Wok-Fried Noodles

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Craving a fast, flavour-packed noodle dish that beats takeaway every time? This Beef Chow Mein is smoky, savoury, and loaded with tender beef, crisp vegetables, and glossy noodles coated in a rich soy-based sauce. Made in one hot wok, it’s a weeknight-friendly recipe that delivers restaurant-style results with simple pantry ingredients.

Chow mein is a classic Chinese stir-fried noodle dish loved for its balance of chewy noodles, umami sauce, and quick high-heat cooking. The magic comes from wok hei—the slightly smoky flavour created by cooking over very high heat. Using beef mince keeps this version budget-friendly and juicy, while cabbage and carrot add crunch and natural sweetness. This dish reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep or next-day lunches without losing texture.

           

Key Ingredients & Their Roles

  • Egg noodles / ramen → Chewy base that absorbs sauce beautifully 

  • Beef mince (ground beef) → Rich, savoury protein that cooks quickly
  • Garlic → Aromatic foundation for depth of flavour
  • Spring onions → Mild onion flavour with freshness and crunch
  • Eggs → Add richness and classic chow mein texture
  • Cabbage → Light crunch and natural sweetness 

  • Carrots → Colour, texture, and subtle sweetness 

  • Soy sauce → Salty umami backbone
  • Dark soy sauce → Colour and deeper flavour
  • Oyster sauce → Savoury sweetness and gloss
  • Chinese cooking wine → Enhances aroma and removes beefy odour
  • Cornflour (cornstarch) → Thickens sauce and coats noodles evenly
  • White pepper → Gentle heat without overpowering

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Cuisine: Chinese / Asian Fusion
  • Estimated Calories: ~520 kcal per serving
  • Serves: 4–5

🥕 Ingredients

Noodles & Stir-Fry

  • 400 g (14 oz) thin egg noodles or ramen cakes
  • 2 Tbsp canola oil
  • 1 Tbsp minced garlic
  • 600 g (1.3 lb) beef mince (ground beef)
  • 6 spring onions (scallions), cut into 5 cm lengths, whites & greens separated
  • 3 large eggs
  • 400 g (14 oz) green cabbage, finely sliced
  • 2 carrots, julienned

Sauce

  • 2 1/2 Tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 Tbsp dark soy sauce
  • 1 Tbsp oyster sauce
  • 3 Tbsp Chinese cooking wine
  • 1 Tbsp brown sugar
  • 1/8 tsp white pepper
  • 1½ tsp cornflour (cornstarch) 

🍳 Instructions

  1. Prepare noodles
    Cook noodles according to packet instructions. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Mix the sauce
    In a bowl, combine all sauce ingredients until smooth. Set aside. 

  3. Heat the wok
    Heat a large wok over high heat (220°C / 430°F). Add oil.
  4. Cook beef
    Add garlic, then beef mince. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until browned.
  5. Build flavour
    Add 3 Tbsp of the sauce and the white part of spring onions. Cook for 2 minutes.
  6. Scramble eggs
    Push beef to one side. Add eggs and scramble gently until just set.
  7. Add vegetables
    Add carrots and cabbage. Stir-fry 1–2 minutes until slightly wilted. 

  8. Combine everything
    Add noodles, remaining sauce, and green spring onions. Toss over high heat for 2 minutes until glossy and well combined. 

  9. Serve immediately
    Enjoy hot for the best texture and flavour.

Tips & Ingredient Substitutions

  • Gluten-free: Use rice noodles + gluten-free soy & oyster sauce
  • Vegan: Swap beef for mushrooms or firm tofu; omit eggs
  • Extra flavour: Add a drizzle of sesame oil at the end
  • Time-saving: Use pre-shredded cabbage and carrots

FAQ Section

Q: Can I make beef chow mein ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best eaten fresh. Reheat quickly over high heat to avoid soggy noodles.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Q: Can I use sliced beef instead of mince?
Absolutely—use thinly sliced flank or sirloin for a more traditional texture.

Q: What noodles work best?
Thin egg noodles or ramen are ideal for absorbing sauce without breaking.

Wrap-Up 

This Beef Chow Mein is fast, comforting, and packed with bold wok-fried flavour—perfect for busy nights when you want something satisfying without takeaway.
Have you tried chow mein with beef mince before, or do you prefer sliced beef?

👉 You might also love my Chicken Chow Mein or Yaki Udon Stir-fry on the blog.
💬 Leave a comment and let me know your favourite noodle add-ins!

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