Spicy Szechuan Shrimp and Noodles

There’s something about the aroma of Spicy Szechuan Shrimp and Noodles that makes your taste buds dance with anticipation. Imagine the sizzling sound of shrimp hitting a hot skillet, mingling with garlic, ginger, and a symphony of spices that transport you straight to the bustling streets of Chengdu. Each slurp of those perfectly cooked noodles coated in a glossy, vibrant sauce brings an explosion of flavor that makes your mouth water and your heart sing.

I remember the first time I tried this dish at a tiny hole-in-the-wall restaurant. The owner, a charming little lady with a wicked sense of humor, served it with a wink and a warning: “Watch out It bites back” As I took that first bite, I felt like my taste buds were taking a joyride through an amusement park – thrilling, spicy, and oh-so-satisfying. Now, whenever I whip up this recipe at home, it becomes an instant party on my dinner table. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, you’ll be craving more long after the last noodle is gone.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Spicy Szechuan Shrimp and Noodles recipe is quick enough for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for entertaining
  • The bold flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds
  • It’s visually stunning with its vivid colors and garnishes that pop
  • Plus, it’s versatile you can easily customize it based on what you have in your pantry

The first time I made this dish, my friends couldn’t stop raving about it they even asked for takeout leftovers

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works great just ensure they are deveined and peeled for easy cooking.
  • Egg Noodles: Choose thin egg noodles for their ability to soak up the flavorful sauce beautifully.
  • Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves minced finely for that punchy flavor boost.
  • Ginger: Grate fresh ginger to add warmth and spice avoid dried ginger for best results.
  • Szechuan Peppercorns: These give the dish its unique numbing heat don’t skip them if you want authentic flavor.
  • Vegetable Oil: Use high smoke point oil like canola or peanut oil to sauté everything without burning.
  • Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while keeping that umami goodness intact.
  • Chili Paste: Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance sambal oelek works well here.
  • Green Onions: Chop these up for garnish they add freshness and color at the end.
  • Cilantro (optional): Add chopped cilantro for an extra burst of flavor if you’re feeling adventurous

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the garlic and ginger finely so they’ll infuse their flavors into the dish seamlessly.

Cook the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente about 3-4 minutes usually does the trick.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add vegetable oil. Once hot, toss in minced garlic and grated ginger until fragrant about 30 seconds will do.

Add Shrimp: Toss in the shrimp and Szechuan peppercorns. Cook until shrimp turn pink and opaque around 3-4 minutes flipping occasionally so they cook evenly.

Create the Sauce: Stir in soy sauce and chili paste. Let it simmer briefly until everything is well combined and heated through this should take another minute or two.

Toss Noodles In: Finally, add drained noodles into the skillet with shrimp. Gently toss everything together until noodles are well-coated with sauce about 1-2 minutes will make magic happen here.

Serve immediately garnished with sliced green onions and cilantro if desired. Enjoy your Spicy Szechuan Shrimp and Noodles with pride knowing you’ve created something mouthwateringly delicious

You Must Know

  • Spicy Szechuan Shrimp and Noodles is a delightful dish that combines heat with flavor
  • The crispy shrimp paired with the chewy noodles creates a satisfying texture
  • The dish’s vibrant colors make it visually appealing, perfect for impressing family or friends at dinner

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the shrimp to infuse flavor, then cook the noodles while preparing the spicy sauce for an efficient workflow.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out shrimp for chicken or veggies. Experiment with different sauces to create your own unique twist on this classic dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain texture and flavor.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To elevate your Spicy Szechuan Shrimp and Noodles, ensure your ingredients are fresh for maximum flavor impact
  • Adjust the spice level based on your taste preferences, and always have extra sauce on hand for those who crave more heat

Sharing this recipe reminds me of a gathering where my friends couldn’t get enough of these spicy noodles. Their laughter filled the kitchen as they debated who could handle the most heat

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for Spicy Szechuan Shrimp and Noodles?

Yes, thaw them completely before marinating for even flavor distribution.

What can I substitute for Szechuan peppercorns?

Try black pepper or crushed red pepper flakes if you can’t find Szechuan peppercorns.

How can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?

Modify the amount of chili paste or add more sugar to balance out the heat.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Spicy Szechuan Shrimp and Noodles


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Ann Foster
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Spicy Szechuan Shrimp and Noodles is a bold, flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp with perfectly cooked egg noodles in a vibrant, spicy sauce. This recipe brings the authentic taste of Chengdu right to your kitchen, delivering an explosion of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Quick enough for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for entertaining, it’s a perfect blend of heat and savory goodness that satisfies every palate.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb shrimp (fresh or frozen, deveined and peeled)
  • 8 oz thin egg noodles
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger (grated)
  • 1 tsp Szechuan peppercorns
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp chili paste (adjust to taste)
  • 3 green onions (chopped, for garnish)
  • ¼ cup cilantro (chopped, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients by finely chopping garlic and ginger.
  2. Cook the egg noodles in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente (about 3–4 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat vegetable oil. Add minced garlic and grated ginger; sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
  4. Add shrimp and Szechuan peppercorns; cook until shrimp are pink and opaque (3–4 minutes), flipping occasionally.
  5. Stir in soy sauce and chili paste; let it simmer briefly until heated through (1–2 minutes).
  6. Toss the drained noodles into the skillet with shrimp, mixing gently until well-coated with the sauce (1–2 minutes).
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and cilantro if desired.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 390
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 210mg

Related Articles

Ann Foster

Chef & Blogger

Hi, I’m Ann Foster! Born and raised in California’s Central Valley, I found my passion for cooking in my grandmother’s kitchen. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, I traveled across the country exploring new flavors and cooking techniques. This website is my passion project—where I share delicious recipes meant to bring people together, one meal at a time. Welcome to my culinary journey!

Chef Ann