Spicy Szechuan Shrimp and Noodles

Name: Spicy Szechuan Shrimp and Noodles
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Szechuan
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tsp Szechuan peppercorns; 8 oz egg noodles or rice noodles; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tbsp chili paste (adjust to taste); 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 3 green onions, chopped

Published: March 28, 2025

by mimi

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Spicy Szechuan Shrimp and Noodles recipe is super easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
The bold flavors create an explosion of taste that will leave your guests begging for more
With its vibrant colors and enticing aromas, this dish looks as good as it tastes
It’s versatile enough to be enjoyed on its own or paired with fresh veggies or rice

Sharing this dish during our last family get-together had everyone asking for seconds and even thirds

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen shrimp just make sure they’re peeled and deveined for the best texture.
Szechuan Peppercorns: These add a unique tingling sensation look for whole peppercorns for maximum flavor.
Noodles: I recommend using egg noodles or rice noodles, as they absorb the sauce beautifully.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves elevate the dish’s aroma finely chop them for maximum flavor release.
Ginger: Fresh ginger adds warmth and depth use a microplane to finely grate it into your mixture.
Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to balance the flavors without overwhelming saltiness.
Chili Paste: Choose your favorite chili paste to control the heat level according to your preference.
Vegetable Oil: A neutral oil works best here use it to stir-fry the shrimp and veggies seamlessly.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions add freshness sprinkle them on top right before serving.

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 so you’re ready to go. Chop garlic, ginger, and green onions while having your shrimp thawed if frozen.

Cook the Noodles: Boil a pot of water and cook noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain them well but keep a bit of pasta water aside for later.

Sauté Aromatics and Shrimp: In a hot pan with vegetable oil, sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant about 30 seconds then add shrimp. Cook until they turn pink and opaque.

Add Sauce Ingredients : Stir in soy sauce, chili paste, and Szechuan peppercorns. Allow these flavors to meld together as they simmer over medium heat for about two minutes.

Toss in Noodles : Add the drained noodles into the pan with shrimp and pour in reserved pasta water if needed. Toss everything together until well combined.

Garnish and Serve : Once everything is heated through, sprinkle chopped green onions on top before serving. Enjoy this amazing dish immediately while it’s hot

With each step, you’ll feel like a culinary wizard conjuring up magic in your kitchen The rich colors will dance before your eyes while delightful aromas waft through the air your family will wonder how you became such an expert chef overnight

You Must Know

This spicy Szechuan shrimp and noodles dish is a flavor explosion
The perfect balance of heat and umami makes it irresistible
Your kitchen will smell divine, and it’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the shrimp for at least 30 minutes to enhance their flavor. While they soak, cook the noodles to al dente perfection. Then, stir-fry the shrimp quickly over high heat to keep them juicy.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out shrimp for chicken or tofu if you prefer. Add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and color. Experiment with different spices to personalize your dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, microwave gently or stir-fry briefly on medium heat until warmed through, ensuring the shrimp stays tender.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture frozen can work too if thawed properly
Be careful not to overcook the shrimp they should be just pink and opaque
Always taste your sauce before serving you can adjust flavors as needed

Cooking this spicy Szechuan shrimp and noodles brings me back to my college days when my friends dared me to make something that would “blow their socks off.” It sure did

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use other types of noodles?

Absolutely Rice noodles or udon work well in this spicy Szechuan dish.

How spicy is this recipe?

This recipe has a good kick, but you can adjust the spice level as desired.

What should I serve with this dish?

Pair it with steamed broccoli or a light cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.