Fast & Easy Shrimp Lo Mein Recipe

Irresistible Shrimp Lo Mein Recipe For Busy Nights

Fast & easy shrimp lo mein brings a delectable Asian-inspired feast right to your kitchen, bursting with colorful ingredients and bold flavors.

Silky noodles intertwine with succulent seafood, creating a harmonious blend that dances across your palate.

The dish represents a perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and aromatic seasonings that change simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Authentic yet approachable, this recipe breaks down complex culinary techniques into straightforward steps anyone can master.

Each bite promises a symphony of textures, from tender shrimp to crisp vegetables, all coated in a glossy, umami-rich sauce.

The preparation requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction, making it ideal for busy home cooks seeking a quick and impressive meal.

Why Fast & Easy Shrimp Lo Mein Saves the Day

  • Rapid Cooking Delight: Whip up this shrimp lo mein in just minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a restaurant-quality meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Nutrition-Packed Power Meal: Packed with lean protein from shrimp, fiber-rich vegetables, and balanced macronutrients, this dish offers a wholesome and satisfying dinner that keeps you energized.
  • Texture Sensation: Experience a mouthwatering combination of tender, golden shrimp, crisp-tender vegetables, and silky noodles that create an irresistible play of textures in every single bite.
  • Customize Your Comfort: Easily swap ingredients or adjust spice levels to match your personal taste, making this lo mein a versatile recipe that adapts to your culinary preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients That Make Lo Mein So Flavorful

Noodles:
  • Lo Mein or Udon Noodles: Hearty base for the dish, providing a satisfying texture and authentic Asian flair.
Protein:
  • Shrimp: Tender seafood protein that cooks quickly and absorbs delicious seasonings.
Vegetables:
  • Onion, Broccoli: Fresh vegetables adding crunch, nutrition, and vibrant color to the lo mein.
  • Garlic: Aromatic ingredient providing depth of flavor and classic Asian cuisine profile.
  • Scallions: Optional fresh garnish with mild onion flavor and bright green color.
Sauce and Seasonings:
  • Soy Sauce: Umami-rich liquid that seasons and coats the entire dish with traditional Asian taste.
  • Oil: Neutral cooking medium for searing shrimp and stir-frying vegetables.
  • Water: Used for steaming vegetables and creating sauce consistency.

How to Whip Up Shrimp Lo Mein in Minutes

Step 1: Prepare Noodle Foundation

Cook lo mein or udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking process, then set aside.

Step 2: Sear Succulent Shrimp

Season shrimp with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Quickly sear shrimp until they turn golden but are not fully cooked. Remove shrimp and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Vegetable Medley Sauté

In the same skillet, add more oil if needed. Sauté:
  • Chopped onions
  • Broccoli florets
  • Minced garlic

Cook vegetables until they become tender-crisp. Add a splash of water to create quick steam and enhance vegetable texture.

Step 4: Combine and Finish Dish

Add prepared noodles back to the skillet. Pour in soy sauce mixture and toss everything together. Return shrimp to the pan and cook until shrimp are completely done and everything is evenly coated with sauce. Sprinkle freshly chopped scallions on top for a vibrant finish. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious shrimp lo mein!

Tips to Avoid Soggy Noodles and Bland Shrimp

  • Master Noodle Selection: Choose fresh lo mein or udon noodles for authentic texture and best flavor absorption.
  • Quick Shrimp Searing: Use high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan to achieve golden edges without overcooking the shrimp.
  • Vegetable Timing Trick: Add harder vegetables like broccoli first, then softer ingredients to maintain perfect crisp-tender consistency.
  • Sauce Balance Technique: Whisk sauce ingredients thoroughly to ensure even coating and prevent clumping when mixing with noodles.
  • Heat Control Hack: Maintain medium-high heat during final combining stage to help sauce cling to noodles and shrimp without making them soggy.

How to Keep Lo Mein Fresh for Later

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover shrimp lo mein in an airtight container within two hours of cooking. Seal tightly to prevent moisture loss and preserve the noodles' texture. Refrigerated lo mein stays fresh for 3-4 days.
  • Microwave Reheating: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a tablespoon of water to prevent drying, and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to distribute heat evenly.
  • Skillet Method: Warm lo mein in a non-stick skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil or water. Gently toss noodles to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. Stir continuously for 3-4 minutes until the dish is steaming hot and shrimp are warmed through.

What to Serve with This Quick Takeout-Style Dish

  • Pair with Crisp Riesling: The wine's slight sweetness and high acidity beautifully cut through the savory shrimp and balance the soy sauce's saltiness, enhancing every bite of the lo mein.
  • Complement with Jasmine Green Tea: This light, fragrant tea provides a clean palate refresher between bites, cleansing the mouth and highlighting the dish's delicate seafood and vegetable flavors.
  • Boost with Ginger Beer: The spicy, bubbly beverage adds a zesty kick that mirrors the garlic and onion notes in the lo mein, creating a vibrant and exciting flavor experience.
  • Serve with Cucumber Salad: A cool, crisp side dish with a light rice vinegar dressing will provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, saucy noodles and add an extra layer of texture to the meal.

Flavor Variations for Lo Mein Lovers

  • Spicy Kick Lo Mein: Replace regular shrimp with chili-coated shrimp by tossing them in red pepper flakes and sriracha before searing. Add sliced jalapeños during vegetable stir-fry for extra heat.
  • Veggie Power Lo Mein: Swap shrimp with tofu cubes or edamame for a plant-based protein option. Include additional vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and snap peas to boost nutritional value.
  • Ginger Sesame Lo Mein: Enhance sauce with fresh grated ginger and sesame oil for deeper, more complex flavor profile. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving for added texture and nutty undertones.
  • Quick Protein Lo Mein: Substitute shrimp with pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or thinly sliced beef for faster meal preparation. Use store-bought rotisserie meat to reduce cooking time while maintaining delicious taste.
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Fast & Easy Shrimp Lo Mein Recipe

Fast & Easy Shrimp Lo Mein Recipe


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4.6 from 24 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Spicy shrimp lo mein delivers classic Chinese-inspired comfort with restaurant-quality noodles and succulent seafood. Saucy, quick-cooking strands tangle with plump shrimp, creating a delicious meal you can whip up faster than takeout delivery.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 12 ounces (340 grams) medium raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (21 to 25 per pound)

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 large broccoli crown (about 12 ounces or 340 grams)
  • ½ medium yellow onion
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 medium scallion (optional)

Noodles, Sauces, and Seasonings:

  • 8 ounces (226 grams) dried lo mein or udon noodles
  • 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) vegetable oil, divided
  • 1 teaspoon packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for boiling noodles
  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) water

Instructions

  1. Prepare lo mein or udon noodles according to package instructions, ensuring they are cooked al dente. Carefully drain and immediately rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
  2. Season raw shrimp with salt and pepper. Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat and quickly sear shrimp until they just turn golden on the exterior, approximately 1-2 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside, as they will finish cooking later.
  3. In the same wok, add additional oil and sauté diced onions, chopped broccoli florets, and minced garlic. Stir continuously for 3-4 minutes until vegetables reach a vibrant, tender-crisp texture. Splash a small amount of water to create quick steam and enhance vegetable brightness.
  4. Whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, and other sauce ingredients in a separate bowl. Add cooked noodles to the vegetable mixture, then incorporate the prepared sauce and previously seared shrimp. Toss everything together, allowing the ingredients to heat through and the shrimp to complete cooking.
  5. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce evenly coats all ingredients and the shrimp are fully opaque and pink. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions for a fresh, aromatic finish. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • Prep all ingredients beforehand to make cooking smooth and stress-free.
  • Customize vegetable mix with your favorite seasonal produce for added freshness.
  • Frozen shrimp works perfectly when thawed completely and patted dry before cooking.
  • Choose thick lo mein or udon noodles for authentic texture and better sauce absorption.
  • Adjust sauce heat level by adding more or less sriracha or red pepper flakes to suit taste preferences.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stir-Frying
  • Cuisine: Fusion

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 440 kcal
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 820mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg
Mary Ellen

Mary Ellen

Founder, Pastry Chef & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Artisanal Bread Making
  • Exquisite Pastry Craftsmanship
  • Creative Dessert Presentation
  • Flavor Profile Development
  • Menu Concept Innovation.

Education

Savannah Technical College

  • Program: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Baking & Pastry Arts
  • Focus: A specialized program focusing on baking and pastry fundamentals, including bread making, cake decorating, and advanced pastry techniques. Developed creative presentation skills and an understanding of ingredient functions through lab-based practice.

Mary Ellen is the heart and soul of thatsmyhome.com. As the founder, pastry chef, and recipe developer, she refined her skills at Savannah Technical College with an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Baking & Pastry Arts. 

Mary blends classic techniques with modern twists to make artisanal breads, beautifully crafted pastries, and desserts full of unique flavor. Her passion is evident in every recipe, and she enjoys sharing her expertise through hands-on pastry workshops and insightful articles in local culinary magazines.

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