Description

Savory, slightly sweet, and full of bold flavor, these Sticky Beef Noodles are the ultimate weeknight comfort food. Tender strips of beef are seared until caramelized, then tossed in a glossy, sticky sauce and served over slurp-worthy noodles. With garlic, ginger, soy, and a touch of sweetness, every bite is packed with umami goodness that’s better than takeout—and so easy to make at home.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Beef:

1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil or vegetable oil

For the Sauce:

¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tbsp oyster sauce
2 tbsp hoisin sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
½ tsp chili flakes or sriracha (optional, for heat)
1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry for thickening)

For the Noodles:

8 oz lo mein, rice noodles, or spaghetti
1 tbsp sesame oil or vegetable oil
1 cup shredded carrots or bell peppers (optional)
2 green onions, sliced
Sesame seeds, for garnish

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

In a bowl, toss sliced beef with 1 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tbsp cornstarch. Let sit for 10 minutes to tenderize and coat.
Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add beef in a single layer and sear 1–2 minutes per side until browned and just cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles
4. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and toss with 1 tbsp sesame oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sticky Sauce
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes.
6. Stir in the cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) and set aside.

Step 4: Combine Everything
7. In the same skillet, add a splash of oil if needed and sauté any optional veggies for 2–3 minutes.
8. Add noodles and beef back to the pan.
9. Pour sauce over everything and toss well until the sauce thickens and everything is evenly coated, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Serve & Garnish
10. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
11. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

Slice Beef Thin – This ensures it cooks quickly and stays tender.
Use High Heat – Helps the beef caramelize and the sauce get sticky.
Customize – Add veggies like snap peas, mushrooms, or baby bok choy.
Double the Sauce – If you like it extra saucy, increase the sauce ingredients.
Use Fresh Noodles – If available, they offer the best texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired