Name: Easy 15-Minute Lo Mein Recipe
Prep time: 7 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 2 Carrots, sliced; 1/4 Yellow Onion, sliced; 3 cups Cabbage, thinly sliced (about 1/4 large cabbage); 3 Garlic Cloves, diced; 1 bunch Green Onion (green part only); 8 oz Dry Egg Noodles (package or fresh); 2 tbsp Dark Soy Sauce; 2 tbsp Soy Sauce; 2 tbsp Brown Sugar (or regular sugar); 1 tbsp Water; 1 tsp Sesame Oil; 1 tbsp Corn Starch; 1/4 tsp White Pepper; 1 tbsp Oyster Sauce

If you’re craving a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal, this Easy 15-Minute Lo Mein Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with vibrant veggies, tender egg noodles, and a savory sauce that hits all the right notes, this dish comes together faster than you can say “takeout.” It’s the perfect blend of sweet, salty, and umami, delivering a comforting taste of Chinese-inspired cuisine without the fuss or long wait. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a hungry crowd, this recipe is a total game-changer in your weeknight dinner rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two steps of preparing vegetables on a white marbled surface. On the left, a woman's hand holds a large brown onion being sliced vertically with a kitchen knife on a wooden chopping board, revealing the white inner layers of the onion. On the right, a woman's hand is slicing bright orange carrots into thin, long matchstick-like pieces on the same wooden chopping board. The close-up view captures the texture of the vegetables and the motion of slicing. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These simple but essential ingredients are the backbone of the Easy 15-Minute Lo Mein Recipe. Each one adds its unique flavor and texture—whether it’s the crisp bite of fresh cabbage, the rich depth of dark soy sauce, or the subtly sweet balance from brown sugar. Grab these basics, and you’re almost there!

8 oz Dry Egg Noodles: The perfect noodle base, tender yet firm to hold the sauce beautifully.
2 Carrots, sliced: Adds a natural sweetness and a lovely pop of orange color.
1/4 Yellow Onion, sliced: Brings a mild sharpness and depth when sautéed.
3 cups Cabbage, thinly sliced (1/4 large cabbage): Offers crunch and freshness to balance the noodles.
3 Garlic Cloves, diced: Infuses the dish with fragrant, savory warmth.
1 bunch Green Onion (green part only): Adds a fresh, vibrant oniony flavor as a finishing touch.
2 tbsp Dark Soy Sauce: Gives a rich, complex umami flavor and deep color.
2 tbsp Soy Sauce: Balances with a lighter, salty taste.
2 tbsp Brown Sugar (or regular sugar): Adds just the right amount of sweetness to round out the flavors.
1 tbsp Water: Helps dissolve the sauce ingredients for even coating.
1 tsp Sesame Oil: Lends a nutty aroma that elevates the dish’s aroma and taste.
1 tbsp Corn Starch: Thickens the sauce so it clings perfectly to every noodle strand.
1/4 tsp White Pepper: Adds a subtle heat without overpowering the dish.
1 tbsp Oyster Sauce: Boosts savory depth and a hint of sweetness.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Easy 15-Minute Lo Mein Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Veggies and Garlic

Start by slicing the onion, carrots, cabbage, garlic, and green onion. Having everything ready before cooking will make the whole process smooth and quick. Plus, fresh veggies bring a crisp texture and wonderful natural flavors to the Lo Mein.

Step 2: Whip Up the Sauce

In a bowl, combine dark soy sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, corn starch, water, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper. Mix well until everything is thoroughly blended. This sauce is the heart of the Easy 15-Minute Lo Mein Recipe, creating that irresistible sweet-savory glaze that coats every noodle perfectly.

Step 3: Cook the Egg Noodles

Boil the egg noodles for about 5 minutes until just tender. The key here is not to overcook them — once done, drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking. This step ensures your noodles stay firm with a perfect bite.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat a pan or wok until hot, then add garlic, carrots, and onions. Cook for 2 minutes to soften and develop sweetness. Next, add the cabbage and keep cooking for another 2 minutes until it just starts to wilt. This quick stir-fry keeps the veggies vibrant and crunchy — a wonderful contrast to the noodles.

Step 5: Combine Everything and Finish Cooking

Toss in the cooked noodles, the sauce mix, and green onions. Stir everything together for about 1 minute, making sure the noodles get fully coated with the luscious sauce. This step melds all the flavors and textures beautifully, creating a piping-hot, flavorful feast in no time!

How to Serve Easy 15-Minute Lo Mein Recipe

The image shows a close-up of cooked noodles mixed with shredded carrots and chopped cabbage in a black pan. On top of the noodles, there is a layer of fresh chopped green onions scattered evenly. The noodles have a light brown color with a slightly shiny texture from the sauce, while the vegetables add splashes of orange and pale green. The dish looks warm and freshly cooked with a small amount of sauce being poured over it from above. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a handful of chopped peanuts adds delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor. You could also finish with a drizzle of chili oil for a spicy kick, or fresh cilantro if you love a bright herbal note.

Side Dishes

Pair this Easy 15-Minute Lo Mein Recipe with simple steamed dumplings, a crisp Asian cucumber salad, or even some steamed edamame for a well-rounded, satisfying meal that’s bursting with complementary textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Lo Mein in colorful bowls for a fun, casual vibe, or plate it neatly with a side of sliced lime wedges for a touch of elegance. You can also pile it into lettuce cups for a lighter, hands-on eating experience that’s both fresh and fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover Lo Mein in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting overnight, making it perfect for next-day lunches or dinners.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, it’s not ideal for this dish because the noodles might become mushy. If you must freeze it, pack it tightly in a freezer-safe container and thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat your leftover Lo Mein in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. This helps revive the noodles’ perfect bite and keeps the veggies crisp.

FAQs

Can I use fresh noodles instead of dry egg noodles?

Absolutely! Fresh egg noodles will work beautifully and may even cook faster. Just adjust cooking time accordingly to prevent overcooking.

Is this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

This Easy 15-Minute Lo Mein Recipe contains oyster sauce, which is not vegan. You can substitute with a vegetarian mushroom sauce or soy sauce to keep it vegan-friendly.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Definitely! Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, beef, or tofu to make this dish even heartier and protein-packed without adding extra prep time.

What vegetable substitutions can I make?

Feel free to swap in bell peppers, snap peas, bok choy, or mushrooms depending on what you have on hand. These swaps can add different textures and flavors while keeping the dish fresh.

How spicy is this recipe? Can I make it spicy?

By default, this Lo Mein is mild and family-friendly. If you love heat, add chili flakes, chili garlic sauce, or a dash of hot sauce when mixing the sauce or topping at the end.

Final Thoughts

Ready to have dinner on the table in just 15 minutes? This Easy 15-Minute Lo Mein Recipe is such a joy to make and eat — simple ingredients, bold flavors, and a speedy process that feels like a real treat. Next time you’re craving takeout but want to stay home, give this recipe a whirl and watch it become your fast favorite. Happy cooking!

Easy 15-Minute Lo Mein Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need