Szechuan Noodles with Shrimp

Name: Szechuan Noodles with Shrimp
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Chinese egg noodles; 250g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 3 green onions, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons Szechuan sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon sugar; Salt and pepper to taste; Sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Exotic Global Recipes

I absolutely love making Szechuan Noodles with Shrimp for dinner! The vibrant flavors and spicy kick really excite my palate, making it an instant favorite in my household. Every time I prepare this dish, I'm transported to the bustling streets of Szechuan, where the aroma of spicy noodles fills the air. It’s the perfect choice for a quick weeknight meal or a fun gathering with friends. Plus, the combination of succulent shrimp and fragrant vegetables ensures everyone will leave the table satisfied.

Created by

Andrea

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:30:27.975Z

When I first tried making Szechuan Noodles with Shrimp, I was amazed at how easy it is to create such robust flavors at home. The key is using fresh ingredients and a homemade Szechuan sauce that truly captures the essence of this dish. I experimented with different spice levels, and I found that balancing the heat with a touch of sweetness enhances the overall flavor.

One specific tip I discovered while preparing this dish is to cook the noodles just until al dente before combining them with the shrimp and sauce. This ensures they soak up the flavors without becoming mushy, leading to a deliciously satisfying meal that I come back to over and over again.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bold, spicy flavors that awaken your senses
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
Versatile—easily adjustable to suit your spice preference

Cooking the Perfect Noodles

When preparing Szechuan Noodles, using the correct type of noodles is crucial for achieving the desired texture. Chinese egg noodles are ideal because they have a slightly chewy bite that holds up well to the sauce. Ensure you cook them just until al dente, as they will continue to cook slightly when combined with the hot shrimp and sauce. I recommend testing a noodle around the 3-minute mark to prevent overcooking, which can lead to a mushy texture.

To enhance the flavor of the noodles, consider adding a pinch of salt to the boiling water. This simple step infuses the noodles with seasoning from the start, creating a more flavorful base. After draining, rinse the noodles under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together. If you're preparing them in advance, a light drizzle of oil can help separate them while storing.

Shrimp Cooking Tips

The shrimp in this recipe are the star, so getting them just right is essential. Sauté them in a hot skillet with vegetable oil to develop a slight golden color and fully cook them until pink and opaque—about 2-3 minutes on each side. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; this can cause the shrimp to steam rather than sear. If you're cooking more shrimp than your skillet can handle, work in batches for a better texture.

For those who prefer alternatives, feel free to swap shrimp for chicken or tofu. If using chicken, cut it into small bite-sized pieces and ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. For tofu, opt for firm or extra-firm tofu, pressing out excess moisture before sautéing for a crisp texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make flavorful Szechuan Noodles with Shrimp:

Ingredients

200g Chinese egg noodles
250g shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
3 green onions, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons Szechuan sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
Sesame seeds for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Szechuan Noodles with Shrimp:

Cook the Noodles

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the garlic, ginger, and sliced bell peppers. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked noodles and shrimp back to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce, Szechuan sauce, sesame oil, and sugar. Toss everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving hot.

Enjoy your homemade Szechuan Noodles with Shrimp!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like bok choy or snap peas for more color and nutrition. Adjust the amount of Szechuan sauce to control the spiciness.

Storing and Reheating

This Szechuan Noodles with Shrimp dish is excellent for meal prep. After cooking, let it cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to the skillet to reintroduce moisture, as the noodles can dry out during storage. Heat on medium-low, stirring frequently, until everything is warmed through—about 5-7 minutes.

If you’re interested in freezing leftovers, consider leaving out the shrimp and adding them fresh when you reheat the noodles, as freezing can change their texture. Store the noodles and cooked shrimp in separate containers. Thaw the noodles overnight in the fridge before the day you plan to serve them, and quickly sauté the shrimp again before combining.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving Szechuan Noodles hot, garnished with extra green onions and a dusting of sesame seeds for added crunch. You can also introduce additional textures and flavors by serving the dish alongside a light cucumber salad or pickled vegetables. The contrast of the spicy noodles with something cool and crisp elevates the dining experience.

For a family-style meal, consider serving this dish in a large bowl where everyone can help themselves. Pair it with steamed dumplings or spring rolls to enhance the meal and create a real Szechuan-inspired feast! Adding a few Thai basil or cilantro leaves as a garnish can also introduce a fresh note that beautifully complements the bold flavors of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of shrimp?

Yes, chicken, beef, or tofu can be used as alternatives.

→ What if I can't find Szechuan sauce?

You can make a substitute with soy sauce, chili paste, and a bit of sugar.

→ How can I make the noodles gluten-free?

Use rice noodles or gluten-free pasta as a suitable alternative.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the ingredients a few hours in advance.