Sweet & Savory Sticky Beef Noodles with Garlic Soy Glaze

Tender beef, chewy noodles, and a glossy garlic-soy glaze come together in this better-than-takeout stir-fry. Sweet, savory, and just a little sticky, this dish makes a quick weeknight favorite that’s bursting with flavor.

Recipe Card

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Dietary Tags: Dairy-Free | Nut-Free | Can be made Gluten-Free (with tamari & rice noodles)

✅ Ingredients

Rice noodles or egg noodles
Beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
Cornstarch
Vegetable oil
Soy sauce
Dark soy sauce
Hoisin sauce
Oyster sauce
Brown sugar
Rice vinegar
Garlic, minced
Fresh ginger, grated
Crushed red pepper (optional)
Green onions, sliced

🔪 Instructions

Cook the Noodles
- Boil noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
Prep the Beef
- Toss sliced beef with cornstarch until lightly coated.
Sear the Beef
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add beef in batches and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Make the Garlic Soy Glaze
- In the same pan, add the remaining oil. Sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Stir in soy sauce, dark soy sauce, hoisin, oyster sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine & Toss
- Return beef to the skillet along with noodles. Toss until evenly coated in the sticky glaze.
Serve
- Garnish with sliced green onions. Serve hot, straight from the wok.

🌟 Extra Tips

Tender Beef: Slice beef thinly against the grain for the best texture.
Noodle Options: Rice noodles make this naturally gluten-free; egg noodles add extra chew.
Sticky Factor: If you like it thicker, whisk 1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water, then stir into the glaze before adding noodles.
Veggie Boost: Add broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra crunch and color.

🍴 Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp cucumber salad or steamed edamame.
Top with sesame seeds or chili oil for a restaurant-style finish.
Serve family-style in a large wok or deep platter for an authentic touch.

🥡 Storage & Make-Ahead

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Meal Prep: Cook beef and glaze in advance; toss with fresh noodles just before serving.

❓ FAQ

Q: Can I use chicken instead of beef?
A: Yes! Chicken thighs work especially well—just follow the same cornstarch-searing method.

Q: What’s the difference between regular and dark soy sauce?
A: Dark soy is thicker, less salty, and adds that glossy caramelized color.

Q: Is it spicy?
A: Only mildly (from the red pepper flakes). Leave them out for a family-friendly version.

✨ This dish is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and garlicky flavors—comforting yet bold. Once you try it, you’ll be adding it to your weeknight rotation again and again.

Author
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Rabia

Chef & Food Blogger at menuatthetable.com

Rabia has been a chef in Dubai for over eight years and loves exploring different types of food. Through the blog Menu at the Table, Rabia shares the best places to eat in Dubai for every cuisine. Whether you want street food or a fancy restaurant, Rabia helps you find the perfect spot to enjoy delicious meals.