Grandma’s Ground Beef Chow Mein

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Once fully cooked, remove the beef from the pan and set it aside, leaving a little oil in the pan for the vegetables.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the remaining oil to the skillet. Toss in the sliced onions and garlic, cooking for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. The aroma here is the heart of the dish—it’s what gives chow mein its comforting, homemade taste.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

Next, add the carrots, bell peppers, and cabbage. Stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp. If needed, splash in 2–3 tablespoons of water or beef broth to help steam the veggies lightly without overcooking them.

Step 5: Combine Beef and Vegetables

Return the browned ground beef to the skillet, mixing it evenly with the vegetables. Let it heat through for 1–2 minutes.

Step 6: Add the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, and a dash of black pepper. Pour this sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables. Toss thoroughly to coat everything evenly. Allow it to simmer for 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 7: Incorporate the Noodles

Gently fold the cooked chow mein noodles into the skillet, tossing carefully to combine without breaking the noodles. Ensure every strand is coated with the savory sauce and mixed with beef and vegetables.

Step 8: Final Touch

Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top and give a final gentle toss. A light drizzle of sesame oil here adds a nutty aroma that elevates the dish to restaurant-quality flavor at home.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Grandma’s Ground Beef Chow Mein hot, straight from the pan. Pair it with a side of egg rolls, steamed dumplings, or a crisp Asian cucumber salad for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Chow Mein

1. Use fresh vegetables for crispness. Avoid overcooking—they should retain a slight crunch.
2. Noodles matter: Chow mein noodles work best, but thin spaghetti is a convenient substitute.
3. Adjust sauces to taste: Feel free to add more soy sauce or a splash of rice vinegar for extra zing.
4. Add a protein twist: Ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu works if you want a lighter version.

Grandma’s recipe has stood the test of time because it’s easy, satisfying, and deeply comforting. The combination of tender noodles, savory ground beef, and crisp vegetables in a flavorful sauce creates a dish that brings family and friends together. This chow mein isn’t just dinner—it’s a warm hug from the kitchen.

If you want, I can also create a shortcut one-pan version of this chow mein that’s perfect for busy weeknights but still tastes like Grandma made it.

Do you want me to make that version too?