This Spicy Garlic Noodles with Shrimp recipe is the perfect mix of bold flavors and quick preparation. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an easy weeknight meal or a satisfying lunchbox option. With aromatic garlic, tender shrimp, and a touch of chili heat, this dish is a flavorful and comforting meal the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love how simple and versatile this Spicy Garlic Noodles with Shrimp recipe is. It requires minimal ingredients, cooks in minutes, and can be easily customized to suit your taste or dietary preferences. The noodles soak up the spicy garlic sauce beautifully, while the shrimp add a delicious, protein-packed touch. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a flavorful meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 tablespoons light cooking oil
2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic
20–25 small shrimp, shelled and deveined (frozen or fresh)
1 tablespoon sambal oelek or your favorite chili sauce
2 tablespoons light soy sauce
500 grams spaghetti noodles, cooked according to package instructions, drained, and set aside
Salt and pepper to taste
Finely chopped green onions, for garnish
Directions
Heat the oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
Add the chopped garlic and sauté for a few seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the shrimp and stir-fry for 1–2 minutes, or until they begin to turn pink.
Stir in the sambal oelek and soy sauce, mixing well to coat the shrimp and garlic evenly.
Add the cooked noodles, season with salt and pepper, and stir-fry for another 1–2 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with chicken, tofu, or even tempeh for a different take.
Vegetable Boost: Add bok choy, broccoli, cabbage, or snow peas for extra texture and nutrition.
Noodle Options: Use udon noodles for a chewier bite or soba/buckwheat noodles for a gluten-free version.
Flavor Twist: Add a splash of rice vinegar or sesame oil at the end for a tangy or nutty aroma.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid overcooking the shrimp during reheating to keep them tender.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish less spicy?
Yes, reduce the amount of sambal oelek or use a mild chili sauce to control the spice level.
2. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely. Just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.
3. What type of noodles work best for this recipe?
Spaghetti, udon, or rice noodles all work well—choose based on your texture preference or dietary needs.
4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, replace shrimp with tofu or your favorite plant-based protein and use vegetarian soy sauce.
5. How do I keep the noodles from sticking together?
Toss the cooked noodles in a little oil after draining to prevent clumping.
6. Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely. Bok choy, bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas make great additions.
7. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the noodles and shrimp in advance, then toss everything together right before serving.
8. What can I serve with these noodles?
Pair them with a side of stir-fried vegetables, spring rolls, or a light cucumber salad.
9. Can I use another sauce instead of soy sauce?
You can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter flavor.
10. How can I make the sauce thicker?
Add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water during stir-frying to slightly thicken the sauce.
Conclusion
Spicy Garlic Noodles with Shrimp is a quick, delicious, and customizable recipe that delivers big flavor in minimal time. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a lunchbox meal, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite. With just a few pantry ingredients, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality noodle bowl right at home.
Spicy Garlic Noodles with Shrimp is a quick and flavorful dish made with tender shrimp, aromatic garlic, and a spicy chili sauce tossed with noodles. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or satisfying lunches, ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons light cooking oil
2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic
20–25 small shrimp, shelled and deveined (frozen or fresh)
1 tablespoon sambal oelek or your favorite chili sauce
2 tablespoons light soy sauce
500 grams spaghetti noodles, cooked and drained
Salt and pepper to taste
Finely chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions
Heat oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
Add chopped garlic and sauté for a few seconds until fragrant, but not burnt.
Add shrimp and stir-fry for 1–2 minutes until they start to turn pink.
Stir in sambal oelek and soy sauce, mixing well to coat the shrimp.
Add cooked noodles, season with salt and pepper, and stir-fry for 1–2 more minutes until everything is heated through and combined.
Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Notes
Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative.
Adjust chili sauce to make it more or less spicy.
Add vegetables like bok choy or bell peppers for a more balanced meal.
Toss noodles with a little oil after cooking to prevent sticking.
