Sticky Beef Noodles – A Sweet & Savory Weeknight Stir-Fry

There’s nothing quite like a hot bowl of sticky beef noodles—tender beef strips tossed in a glossy, sweet-savory sauce, tangled with slurp-worthy noodles and crisp vegetables. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or want something that feels takeout-fancy without leaving your kitchen, this dish delivers big flavor in under 30 minutes.

This recipe balances the umami of soy and oyster sauce, the warmth of ginger and garlic, and a subtle sweetness from brown sugar—all tied together with sesame oil and your favorite veggies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You probably already have most of these in your pantry!

200g beef strips (sirloin, flank, or skirt steak works well)
200g noodles (egg noodles, rice noodles, or udon)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1–2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snow peas)

Tip: For extra heat, add a pinch of red chili flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce.

How to Make Sticky Beef Noodles (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Cook noodles according to package instructions until just tender. Drain, rinse with cold water (if needed), and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
Add beef strips and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until browned and just cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches for the best sear!

Step 3: Build the Flavor

In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

Stir in:

2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar

Let the sauce simmer for 1–2 minutes, until slightly thickened and sticky.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the beef to the pan and toss to coat in the sticky sauce.

Add your cooked noodles and vegetables. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes, or until everything is well combined and heated through.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Top with freshly chopped green onions, a drizzle of sesame oil, or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.

Serve hot and enjoy your homemade takeout-style stir-fry!

Time Breakdown

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Serves

2–3 servings

Nutritional Info (Approx. per serving)

Calories: 450
Protein: 30g
Carbs: 40g
Fat: 20g

Nutrition will vary based on type of noodles, beef cut, and vegetables used.

Variations & Swaps

Vegetarian? Swap beef for crispy tofu or mushrooms and use hoisin instead of oyster sauce.
Low-carb? Try shirataki noodles or spiralized zucchini.
Gluten-free? Use tamari instead of soy sauce and rice noodles or gluten-free pasta.
Extra protein? Add an egg on top or toss in some edamame.

What to Serve With Sticky Beef Noodles

Cucumber salad or Asian slaw for a refreshing side
Steamed dumplings or spring rolls for a takeout-style feast
A glass of iced green tea or chilled plum wine

Leftovers & Storage

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Reheat: Pan-fry over medium heat with a splash of water or microwave until warm
Freezer: Best consumed fresh, but can be frozen (note: noodles may soften)

Final Thoughts

Sticky beef noodles are one of those magical meals that feel indulgent but come together in a flash. Whether you’re cooking for one, prepping lunchboxes, or feeding the whole family, this flavorful stir-fry checks all the boxes: quick, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. Reuben Bake with Layers of Corned Beef