Szechuan Noodles with Shrimp

Name: Szechuan Noodles with Shrimp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces of egg noodles; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup snap peas; 3 tablespoons Szechuan sauce; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon chili oil; 1/4 cup scallions, chopped; Sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: International Recipes

I absolutely adore Szechuan noodles, and this recipe has become a favorite in my home. The spicy, tangy sauce combined with succulent shrimp creates a culinary experience that is both exciting and comforting. Every time I make this dish, I love watching the vibrant colors come together, making it not only tasty but also visually appealing. The fragrant garlic and ginger infuse the noodles with amazing flavor, and I can't resist adding a sprinkle of scallions and sesame seeds for an extra crunch. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun gathering!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:30:27.686Z

When I first tried Szechuan noodles at a local restaurant, I was captivated by their bold flavors and satisfying heat. I decided to recreate them at home, experimenting with fresh ingredients to capture that authentic taste. One key tip I discovered is to use a high-quality chili oil; it really elevates the dish!

This recipe is not just about the noodles; the shrimp add a delightful texture that complements the dish perfectly. I recommend cooking the shrimp just until they turn pink to ensure they remain tender. Pairing them with perfectly cooked noodles drenched in a savory sauce makes for a truly irresistible meal!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A perfect balance of heat and flavor that awakens your taste buds
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
A colorful and inviting dish that's sure to impress!

Tips for Perfect Shrimp

When cooking the shrimp, aim for a medium heat that allows for even cooking without burning. You’ll know they’re done when they turn a bright pink color and are just opaque in the center, which usually takes around 3-5 minutes. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can easily become rubbery. A good tip is to remove them from the skillet slightly before you think they’re done; they will continue cooking from residual heat once taken off the stove.

If fresh shrimp isn't available, feel free to use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. You can do this by placing them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Always check the package for any added ingredients, as some pre-seasoned shrimp might alter the overall flavor of your dish. Substituting with shrimp alternatives like tofu or tempeh can yield delicious vegetarian results, too!

Creating the Perfect Sauce

The Szechuan sauce is what makes this dish truly special, providing that signature spiciness and depth. Adjust the heat level by varying the amount of chili oil; I recommend starting with one tablespoon and tasting as you go. If your palate prefers a milder flavor, consider adding more soy sauce to balance the heat without sacrificing flavor. You can also experiment with additional elements like a splash of rice vinegar for extra tang or a teaspoon of sugar to round off the spiciness.

If you're looking for a quick way to elevate the sauce, consider making a homemade version. Simply combine equal parts soy sauce and rice vinegar with a splash of sesame oil and finely minced garlic to create a flavorful base. You can always tailor this mix to your taste by adding chili flakes or fresh herbs for a twist. The beauty of this recipe is in its adaptability—so feel free to get creative with the seasonings.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Szechuan noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. If you find that the noodles have absorbed a lot of the sauce, adding extra Szechuan or soy sauce will help bring back the flavor. It's a great way to enjoy the dish again without losing its signature taste!

If you want to prepare this dish in advance, you can cook the noodles and shrimp separately. Store them in the fridge and mix with the sauce just before serving, which helps maintain the textures of the noodles and shrimp. This technique also makes it easy to serve at gatherings, allowing guests to enjoy a freshly tossed dish without the last-minute rush.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to cook this delightful Szechuan dish:

Ingredients for Szechuan Noodles with Shrimp

8 ounces of egg noodles
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons sesame oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 cup snap peas
3 tablespoons Szechuan sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon chili oil
1/4 cup scallions, chopped
Sesame seeds for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Szechuan noodles:

Cook the Noodles

In a pot of boiling water, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Shrimp and Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp, bell pepper, and snap peas. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and vegetables are tender.

Mix in Sauces

Pour in the Szechuan sauce, soy sauce, and chili oil. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld.

Combine with Noodles

Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss everything together to coat the noodles with the sauce and distribute the shrimp evenly.

Serve

Garnish with chopped scallions and sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving warm.

Enjoy your spicy Szechuan noodles with shrimp!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, adjust the amount of chili oil or add sliced jalapeños to the mix. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed broccoli or a light salad.

Serving Suggestions

For an eye-catching presentation, consider serving the Szechuan noodles in a large bowl topped with the vibrant scallions and a generous sprinkle of sesame seeds. Pair this dish with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh cucumber salad to add a refreshing crunch. If you’re looking for a complete meal, serving alongside some crispy spring rolls can elevate the dining experience even further.

To enhance the flavor profile, serve with additional condiments on the side, such as more chili oil or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for added texture and taste. Fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil can also provide an aromatic contrast to the spicy noodles, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand! Broccoli florets, carrots, or zucchini can be great additions or substitutions that add different textures and flavors. Just be sure to cut them into even pieces so they cook at the same rate as the shrimp and noodles.

If you're looking to switch up the protein, this recipe also works beautifully with chicken or beef. Just ensure the meat is sliced thinly to cook through quickly, and adjust cooking times accordingly. For a vegan option, tofu and chickpeas can both offer satisfying protein while absorbing the bold flavors of the sauces used.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply replace the shrimp with tofu or additional vegetables.

→ What can I use instead of Szechuan sauce?

You can use a combination of hoisin sauce, chili paste, and soy sauce for a similar flavor.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can meal prep the ingredients and assemble them right before cooking.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.