As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties.
If you've ever found yourself yearning for that perfect takeout lo mein, you're not alone. Luckily, you can recreate those satisfying flavors at home with just an Instant Pot. Imagine savoring tender noodles, fresh veggies, and your choice of protein in a matter of minutes. Curious about how to whip up these nine easy recipes that promise to elevate your weeknight dinners? Let's explore the options that'll transform your kitchen into a noodle lover's paradise.
Key Takeaways
- Instant Pot lo mein recipes offer quick, one-pot meals that save time on busy weeknights while delivering restaurant-quality flavors.
- Classic options like Chicken, Beef, and Shrimp Lo Mein allow for customization with proteins and vegetables based on personal preferences.
- Vegetarian choices, such as Vibrant Vegetable Lo Mein and Thai Peanut Lo Mein, provide healthy, flavorful alternatives to traditional takeout.
- Utilize sauces like soy sauce, peanut sauce, and teriyaki to enhance taste and cater to diverse flavor profiles in your lo mein dishes.
- Easy preparation and minimal cleanup make Instant Pot lo mein a perfect solution for satisfying cravings without the hassle of takeout.
Classic Chicken Lo Mein
Classic Chicken Lo Mein is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful noodles in a savory sauce. Cooking this dish in an Instant Pot not only cuts down on time but also enhances the flavors as everything melds together beautifully. It's perfect for a quick dinner or a cozy meal with family and friends.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. The Instant Pot allows you to sauté the chicken and vegetables, then cook the noodles, all in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Let's get started on making this delicious Classic Chicken Lo Mein!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
- 8 oz lo mein noodles
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the vegetable oil and let it heat up. Once hot, add the sliced chicken breast and season with salt and pepper. Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until it's golden brown and cooked through.
Add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant. Next, add the broccoli, bell pepper, and carrots to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir well to combine.
Break the lo mein noodles in half and add them on top of the vegetables, then close the lid of the Instant Pot. Set it to manual mode for 4 minutes and make sure the steam release valve is sealed. Once the cooking time is up, do a quick release of the steam. Carefully open the lid and give everything a good stir to mix the noodles and vegetables together.
For best results, let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking, allowing the noodles to absorb any remaining sauce. Serve the Classic Chicken Lo Mein hot, garnished with sliced green onions for an extra pop of flavor.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in soy sauce and ginger for about 30 minutes before cooking. You can also customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables such as snap peas, mushrooms, or bok choy.
If you prefer a spicier kick, a dash of chili sauce can elevate the dish. Remember to adjust the cooking time if you use thicker or different types of noodles. Enjoy your delicious homemade Classic Chicken Lo Mein!
Savory Beef Lo Mein
Savory Beef Lo Mein is a delightful dish that combines tender strips of beef with perfectly cooked noodles and an array of colorful veggies, all tossed in a savory sauce. This recipe takes advantage of the Instant Pot, making it a quick and convenient option for busy weeknights or whenever you're craving a delicious homemade meal.
With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up an impressive dinner that will satisfy the whole family.
The key to achieving the best flavor in your Savory Beef Lo Mein lies in marinating the beef and using fresh vegetables. The Instant Pot helps to lock in the flavors while ensuring that the noodles are cooked to perfection in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop.
Follow this recipe for a satisfying dish that's sure to impress!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
- 8 oz lo mein noodles
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 cup beef broth
Cooking Instructions:
Start by marinating the sliced flank steak in a mixture of soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch for at least 15 minutes.
While the beef is marinating, prepare your vegetables by chopping the broccoli, slicing the bell pepper, and julienning the carrot.
Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the marinated beef, cooking until browned. Remove the beef and set it aside.
Next, add the garlic and ginger to the pot, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the beef broth and then, using a wooden spoon, scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Place the lo mein noodles on top of the broth without stirring. Layer the cooked beef and the vegetables on top of the noodles. Seal the Instant Pot and set it to manual high pressure for 4 minutes.
Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release of the pressure, then open the pot and gently toss everything together before serving.
Extra Tips:
For the best results, be sure to slice the beef against the grain to keep it tender.
Feel free to customize your Savory Beef Lo Mein by adding other vegetables like snap peas, mushrooms, or bok choy based on your preferences.
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce. Enjoy your homemade lo mein!
Vibrant Vegetable Lo Mein
Preparing this dish in the Instant Pot enhances the flavors and textures of the vegetables while keeping the noodles perfectly cooked.
The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger adds a delightful aroma and taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Whether you're a vegetarian or simply looking to add more vegetables to your diet, Vibrant Vegetable Lo Mein is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz lo mein noodles
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by adding the vegetable broth to the Instant Pot. Place the lo mein noodles on top of the broth, making certain they're submerged. Don't stir.
- Layer the broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, mushrooms, garlic, and ginger on top of the noodles. Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil over the vegetables.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 3 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, do a quick release of the pressure.
- If desired, mix the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry and stir it into the noodles and vegetables for a thicker sauce. Allow the dish to sauté for a couple of minutes to heat through.
- Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
For best results, make certain to cut your vegetables into uniform sizes to guarantee even cooking.
Feel free to get creative with your vegetable choices; bok choy, zucchini, or baby corn can be excellent additions.
If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a splash of chili sauce or red pepper flakes. Enjoy your vibrant and colorful meal!
Spicy Shrimp Lo Mein
Spicy Shrimp Lo Mein is a delicious and quick dish that brings the flavors of a classic Chinese takeout favorite right to your kitchen. With the help of an Instant Pot, you can prepare this meal in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
The combination of tender shrimp, colorful vegetables, and savory noodles tossed in a spicy sauce creates a delightful meal that's sure to impress your family or guests.
This recipe allows for customization, so feel free to adjust the spice levels to your preference by adding more or less chili sauce. Additionally, you can swap out the shrimp for chicken, beef, or tofu if you prefer. The Instant Pot makes it easy to cook everything in one pot, enhancing the flavors and saving you time on cleanup.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz lo mein noodles
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by cooking the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions, then set aside. In the Instant Pot, select the sauté mode and add vegetable oil. Once hot, add minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp, bell peppers, and snap peas to the pot. Stir in the soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, sesame oil, and sugar. Mix well to coat the shrimp and vegetables in the sauce. Close the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 2 minutes. Once the time is up, perform a quick release of the pressure.
- Open the lid and add the cooked lo mein noodles to the shrimp and vegetable mixture. Toss everything together until well combined, allowing the heat from the dish to warm the noodles. Serve hot and garnish with chopped green onions.
Extra Tips:
When preparing Spicy Shrimp Lo Mein, make certain that your shrimp are fresh and not overcooked, as they can become rubbery.
If you like your dish extra spicy, consider adding some sliced fresh chili peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes. Additionally, you can incorporate other vegetables like carrots or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
Enjoy your homemade takeout experience!
Teriyaki Tofu Lo Mein
Teriyaki Tofu Lo Mein is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of teriyaki sauce with the satisfying texture of stir-fried noodles and vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal prep option. The Instant Pot makes the process a breeze, allowing you to infuse the tofu with teriyaki goodness while cooking the noodles to perfection in a fraction of the time.
Using fresh ingredients and a homemade teriyaki sauce, this dish not only tastes great but is also packed with nutrients. The combination of tofu and colorful vegetables adds a wonderful variety of textures and flavors, ensuring that every bite is enjoyable. Serve this dish hot, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions for an extra touch of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 14 oz firm tofu, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups lo mein noodles
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish
To cook Teriyaki Tofu Lo Mein, start by pressing the cubed tofu to remove excess moisture. In the Instant Pot, select the 'Sauté' mode and heat the olive oil. Add the tofu cubes and sauté until they're golden brown on all sides. Remove the tofu and set it aside.
Next, add the broccoli, bell pepper, and snap peas to the pot, stirring for about 2-3 minutes until they're slightly tender. Pour in the soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir in the lo mein noodles, making sure they're submerged in the sauce mixture. Add the sautéed tofu back into the pot.
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry and add it to the pot. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 3 minutes. Once done, perform a quick release and carefully open the lid. Toss everything gently to combine and serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
Extra Tips:
For a richer flavor, marinate the tofu in the teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking. You can also customize the vegetables based on your preference or what's in season. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha before serving.
Garlic Mushroom Lo Mein
Garlic Mushroom Lo Mein is a delectable dish that brings together the rich flavors of garlic and the earthy taste of mushrooms, all wrapped up in tender lo mein noodles. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, and it can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
The Instant Pot makes the cooking process incredibly efficient, delivering perfectly cooked noodles and a flavorful sauce that clings to every strand. The combination of garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil creates a savory sauce that elevates the dish, while the mushrooms add a delightful texture and depth of flavor.
With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this Garlic Mushroom Lo Mein in no time. Get ready to indulge in a comforting bowl of noodles that you won't be able to resist!
Ingredients:
- 8 oz lo mein noodles
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (shiitake, button, or a mix)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
- Begin by pouring the vegetable broth into the Instant Pot and adding the lo mein noodles. Guarantee the noodles are submerged in the broth. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 2 minutes. Once the time is up, perform a quick release of the pressure.
- Carefully open the lid and stir in the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, and oyster sauce if using. Mix everything well, guaranteeing the noodles are coated in the sauce and the mushrooms are evenly distributed.
If the mixture seems too dry, add a bit more vegetable broth. Allow it to sauté on the 'Sauté' setting for an additional 2-3 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the flavors meld together.
Extra Tips:
For an added crunch, consider incorporating some chopped bell peppers or snap peas into the dish during the sauté phase. If you prefer a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil can enhance the flavors beautifully.
Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving, as the saltiness of soy sauce can vary between brands. Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Mushroom Lo Mein!
Cashew Chicken Lo Mein
Cashew Chicken Lo Mein is a delightful and hearty dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and chewy lo mein noodles all tossed in a savory sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or when you're craving a taste of takeout at home. The Instant Pot makes preparation incredibly easy, allowing you to enjoy this delicious meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
The combination of crunchy cashews and fresh veggies adds texture and flavor, while the lo mein noodles soak up the delicious sauce, creating a well-rounded dish that everyone will love. With just a few simple ingredients and the convenience of the Instant Pot, you can whip up this scrumptious Cashew Chicken Lo Mein in no time!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz lo mein noodles
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1/2 cup cashews, toasted
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 green onions, chopped for garnish
To prepare the Cashew Chicken Lo Mein, start by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté setting. Add a splash of sesame oil and the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
Next, add the chicken pieces and cook until they're no longer pink. Then, pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and oyster sauce, stirring to combine. Layer the lo mein noodles on top of the chicken without stirring.
Place the broccoli, bell pepper, and carrot on top of the noodles. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 4 minutes, then perform a quick release.
After releasing the pressure, carefully open the lid and give everything a good stir. Add the toasted cashews and gently mix them in. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions for added freshness and flavor.
Extra Tips: When cooking Cashew Chicken Lo Mein, feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Snow peas, snap peas, or mushrooms can also make great additions.
For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of chili sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture. Remember to check the doneness of the noodles and adjust the cooking time if necessary, as some brands may require slightly different cooking times. Enjoy your homemade lo mein!
Lemon Pepper Lo Mein
Lemon Pepper Lo Mein is a delightful twist on the classic Chinese dish, infusing fresh citrus and zesty spices into tender noodles. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful dish to impress your guests. The Instant Pot makes it easy to whip up this delicious meal in no time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the noodles are cooked to perfection.
With its bright flavors and satisfying texture, Lemon Pepper Lo Mein is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your tastes. Whether you're looking to add protein, such as chicken or shrimp, or prefer a vegetarian version loaded with veggies, this dish can adapt to whatever ingredients you have on hand. Get ready to enjoy a bowl of vibrant, flavorful noodles that will brighten your dinner table!
Ingredients:
- 8 oz lo mein noodles
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Optional: protein of choice (chicken, shrimp, tofu)
Cooking Instructions:
- Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add the vegetable oil. Once heated, add the sliced bell peppers and snap peas, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they're tender-crisp. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in 1 cup of water and add the lo mein noodles, lemon zest, soy sauce, lemon juice, black pepper, and sesame oil. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Close the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. Once the timer goes off, perform a quick release of the pressure.
Extra Tips:
When making Lemon Pepper Lo Mein, feel free to adjust the level of lemon juice and pepper according to your taste preference. Adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a handful of fresh cilantro before serving can elevate the dish further.
If you prefer a saucier noodle dish, consider increasing the soy sauce or adding a splash of chicken or vegetable broth. Enjoy your flavorful and aromatic meal!
Thai Peanut Lo Mein
Thai Peanut Lo Mein is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the rich, nutty taste of peanut sauce with tender noodles and an assortment of fresh vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dinner with friends. The Instant Pot makes cooking this dish a breeze, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully while keeping the noodles perfectly cooked.
To achieve the best results, it's crucial to use quality ingredients and balance the flavors. The combination of soy sauce, peanut butter, and fresh veggies creates a delightful harmony that will tantalize your taste buds. This dish isn't only delicious but also versatile; feel free to customize it by adding your favorite proteins or swapping out vegetables based on what you have on hand.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz lo mein noodles
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup water
- Chopped green onions and crushed peanuts for garnish
To prepare the Thai Peanut Lo Mein, start by adding the lo mein noodles and 1 cup of water to the Instant Pot. Close the lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure.
Open the lid and add in the broccoli, red bell pepper, snap peas, and carrots. In a separate bowl, mix the soy sauce, peanut butter, sesame oil, honey, garlic, ginger, and 1/4 cup of water until smooth. Pour this peanut sauce over the vegetables and noodles, then stir well to combine.
Secure the lid again and set the Instant Pot to sauté mode for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are tender and the sauce is heated through. Once done, serve the Thai Peanut Lo Mein in bowls, garnished with chopped green onions and crushed peanuts for added texture and flavor.
Extra Tips: When cooking this dish, feel free to adjust the level of spiciness by adding some chili paste or crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy heat. Additionally, you can substitute the vegetables with whatever you have on hand, such as baby corn or bok choy, to keep the meal fresh and exciting.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a bit more peanut butter or let it sauté for a few extra minutes. Enjoy your homemade Thai Peanut Lo Mein!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Gluten-Free Noodles in These Recipes?
Absolutely, you can use gluten-free noodles! They'll dance in your dish like a culinary ballet, soaking up flavors like a sponge. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time for perfect, delightful results. Enjoy!
How Do I Adjust Cooking Time for Frozen Ingredients?
When using frozen ingredients, you'll want to increase the cooking time slightly. Typically, add an extra minute or two to guarantee everything cooks through evenly. Don't forget to adjust the liquid if needed!
What Kitchen Tools Do I Need for These Recipes?
For these recipes, you'll need an Instant Pot, a sturdy cutting board, a sharp knife, measuring cups, and a spatula. Having these tools on hand makes cooking easier and guarantees everything turns out deliciously!
Are These Recipes Suitable for Meal Prep?
You know what they say: "A stitch in time saves nine." Yes, these recipes are perfect for meal prep! You'll enjoy flavorful, quick lunches or dinners throughout the week without sacrificing taste or quality.
Can I Make These Dishes Vegetarian or Vegan?
You can easily make these dishes vegetarian or vegan by substituting meat with tofu or vegetables, and using plant-based sauces. Just guarantee all ingredients align with your dietary preferences, and you'll have a delicious meal!
