Easy Plain Lo Mein Noodles Recipe for Quick Meals

If you’re craving a quick, comforting meal, plain lo mein noodles are a perfect choice. This simple recipe brings out the classic flavors of soft, chewy noodles tossed with a savory sauce that complements anything you pair it with. Whether you want a base for stir-fried veggies or just a straightforward side, mastering plain lo mein noodles will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.

this Recipe

You’ll love how fast it comes together and how flexible it is. You can enjoy it on its own or customize it with proteins and vegetables. Let’s dive into the easy steps to make plain lo mein noodles that taste like your favorite takeout, but homemade!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in under 20 minutes for busy weeknights.
• Uses simple pantry staples you likely have on hand.
• Soft, perfectly cooked noodles with a silky sauce.
• Highly versatile base for adding veggies or protein.
• No complicated techniques—just straightforward stovetop cooking.

Ingredients

Gather these easy-to-find ingredients to whip up plain lo mein noodles with a deliciously balanced sauce.

• 8 ounces lo mein or egg noodles
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (regular or low sodium)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 cup water or chicken broth
• 2 green onions, sliced, for garnish
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 3
• Calories: Approximately 280 per serving

How to Make Plain Lo Mein Noodles Recipe

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions until al dente, usually 4-5 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking, then drain thoroughly.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
3. Add the cooked noodles to the pan and gently toss to coat them with the garlic oil, heating them through for about 2 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and water or broth. Pour this sauce over the noodles and toss continuously for 2-3 minutes to evenly distribute and slightly thicken the sauce.
5. Remove from heat and transfer the plain lo mein noodles to serving bowls. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds if using. Serve immediately while warm.

Tips for the Best Results

• Rinse noodles after boiling to prevent sticking and overcooking.
• Use a wok or large non-stick skillet to toss noodles easily without breaking them.
• Adjust soy sauce and oyster sauce to taste if you prefer a saltier or richer flavor.
• Add a splash of broth instead of water for extra savory depth.
• Garnish with fresh herbs or chili flakes for a flavor boost.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover plain lo mein noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep noodles from drying out, add a teaspoon of water or broth before reheating.

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. Avoid microwaving straight away to maintain the best texture, but if using a microwave, cover loosely and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe?

Absolutely! While lo mein or egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute spaghetti or ramen noodles if needed. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they don’t overcook.

Is plain lo mein noodles gluten-free?

Standard lo mein noodles contain wheat flour and are not gluten-free. For a gluten-free option, look for rice noodles or gluten-free egg noodles and use gluten-free soy sauce.

Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace oyster sauce with a vegetarian mushroom sauce or additional soy sauce to keep it vegan-friendly. The rest of the ingredients are plant-based.

How can I add vegetables or protein to plain lo mein noodles?

Feel free to stir-fry your favorite veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas before adding noodles. For protein, cooked chicken, tofu, or shrimp can be tossed in during the sauce step to create a complete meal.