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 Szechuan noodles; 300g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 3 green onions, chopped; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons Szechuan sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making Szechuan Noodles with Shrimp for the perfect combination of flavors that excite the palate. The fiery Szechuan sauce, complemented by tender shrimp, gives this dish a delightful spice that awakens the senses. As I prepare this meal, I can't help but feel a rush of excitement with each step, knowing it will bring smiles around the dinner table. The rich, complex notes of garlic and ginger mingle beautifully, resulting in a dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:14:28.066Z

When I first discovered Szechuan Noodles with Shrimp, I was mesmerized by the bold flavors and vibrant colors that come to life in the dish. This recipe truly celebrates the essence of Szechuan cuisine, and each bite transports me right to China. What I love most about this dish is how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for those busy weeknight dinners.

During my culinary explorations, I learned that the key to achieving the authentic taste is in the balance of spices. A good quality Szechuan peppercorn can elevate your noodles to an entirely new level. I recommend adding it just before serving to ensure its unique flavor stays vibrant. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Spicy and tangy sauce that packs a punch
Fresh shrimp that perfectly complements the noodles
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for weeknight dinners

Understanding Szechuan Flavors

Szechuan cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors and unique combination of spices that create a delightful contrast. The heat from the Szechuan sauce comes from a blend of chili peppers, while the addition of garlic and ginger adds a fragrant complexity. These elements work together to awaken the palate. When making Szechuan Noodles with Shrimp, it's essential to taste the sauce as you mix it in, adjusting the heat to find your perfect balance between spicy and savory.

The vegetables play a crucial role in this dish beyond just texture. The bell pepper adds a sweet crunch that balances the heat of the sauce, while the broccoli contributes not only vibrant color but also nutritional value. I recommend cutting the broccoli into evenly sized florets to ensure even cooking. With a quick sauté, they will retain their bright color and health benefits while complementing the noodles beautifully.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When cooking the shrimp, ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding them. Heating the sesame oil over medium-high heat not only enhances the flavor but ensures the shrimp cook quickly and evenly. Look for the shrimp to turn from translucent to a vibrant pink color; this usually takes about three minutes. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will cause the shrimp to steam rather than sear, resulting in a less appealing texture.

Once you combine everything in the skillet, give it a gentle toss with tongs rather than stirring too vigorously. This prevents the noodles from breaking apart and allows each ingredient to maintain its shape. A final two-minute heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Keep an eye on the noodles; they should be heated through and glossy, indicating that they've absorbed the sauce without overcooking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a burst of flavor in your Szechuan Noodles with Shrimp.

Main Ingredients

200g Szechuan noodles
300g shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
3 green onions, chopped

Sauce Ingredients

3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons Szechuan sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced

Once you have everything ready, we can jump into the cooking process!

Instructions

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

Cook the Noodles

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the Szechuan noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, around 3 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the sliced bell pepper and broccoli florets. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are vibrant and slightly tender.

Combine with Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Szechuan sauce, and chili garlic sauce. Pour this mixture over the shrimp and vegetables, stirring well.

Mix in the Noodles

Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.

Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve immediately for the best flavor.

Enjoy your spicy, flavorful Szechuan Noodles with Shrimp!

Pro Tips

Feel free to adjust the spice level to your preference. Adding a splash of lime juice just before serving can also enhance the flavors beautifully.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you’re planning to make Szechuan Noodles with Shrimp ahead of time, consider cooking the shrimp and vegetables separately, then combining them with freshly cooked noodles right before serving. This prevents the noodles from getting mushy and allows you to enjoy the dish at its best texture. The sauce can also be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week, just remember to adjust seasoning if needed after reheating.

Leftover Szechuan Noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, I suggest adding a splash of water or a little more soy sauce to prevent drying out. Heat them gently in a skillet over medium heat, tossing to ensure even warming. If you find the noodles are stiff, a bit of moisture will help revive them.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to experiment with different proteins in this recipe. Chicken, beef, or tofu work wonderfully in place of shrimp and can be prepared similarly. If using chicken or beef, ensure they are cut into thin strips to allow for quick cooking. Tofu, particularly firm or extra-firm varieties, should be pressed to remove excess moisture before sautéing for better texture absorption of the flavors.

For a vegetarian twist, you can double the amount of vegetables or add alternatives like snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms. These not only enhance the color and nutrition of your dish but also add diverse textures. Adjust the sauce volume if adding more veggies to maintain the flavor balance, ensuring every bite is still intensely seasoned.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute Szechuan noodles with any other variety of noodles you prefer, such as spaghetti or rice noodles.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace the shrimp with tofu and use vegetable broth instead of shrimp stock for a delicious vegetarian version.

→ What is Szechuan sauce?

Szechuan sauce is a spicy, tangy sauce made with chili paste, soy sauce, and various spices commonly used in Chinese cuisine.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.