This Spicy Basil Shrimp Noodle Stir-Fry is a quick, flavorful meal that comes together in just 15 minutes. Juicy shrimp, tender noodles, crisp vegetables, fresh basil, and a savory spicy sauce come together in one hot skillet for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz (225 g) rice noodles or lo mein noodles
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1–2 red chilies, thinly sliced
- 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 small carrot, julienned
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil or regular basil leaves
- 2 green onions, sliced
For the Sauce
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
Instructions
1. Prepare the Noodles
Cook the noodles according to the package directions.
Drain well and rinse briefly with cold water to prevent them from sticking together.
Set aside.
2. Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sweet chili sauce, sesame oil, lime juice, honey, and red pepper flakes.
Set aside.
3. Cook the Shrimp
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
Add the shrimp in a single layer.
Cook for about 1–2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque.
Transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add the garlic and sliced chilies to the same skillet.
Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot.
Cook for approximately 2–3 minutes, keeping the vegetables slightly crisp.
5. Add the Noodles and Sauce
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet.
Pour the prepared sauce over everything and toss vigorously for 1–2 minutes, making sure the noodles and vegetables are evenly coated.
6. Add the Shrimp and Basil
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet.
Add the fresh basil and green onions.
Toss everything together for another 30–60 seconds, just until the basil wilts and the shrimp is heated through.
7. Serve
Divide the stir-fry between bowls and serve immediately.
Add an extra squeeze of lime or a few sliced chilies for additional flavor and heat.
Tips for a 15-Minute Stir-Fry
- Prep everything before you start cooking. Stir-frying happens quickly, so have all ingredients ready.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp; they only need a few minutes.
- Keep the vegetables slightly crisp for better texture.
- Thai basil gives the dish a more authentic flavor, but regular fresh basil works well too.
- Use a large skillet or wok so the ingredients have enough room to cook properly.
Easy Variations
Extra Spicy
Add more fresh chilies, crushed red pepper flakes, or a spoonful of chili garlic sauce.
Add More Vegetables
Try mushrooms, snow peas, zucchini, baby corn, or bok choy.
Chicken Version
Replace the shrimp with thinly sliced chicken breast or thigh. Cook until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Coconut Basil Shrimp
Add a splash of coconut milk to the sauce for a creamy, mildly sweet variation.
Gluten-Free
Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and check that your oyster and chili sauces are gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this spicy noodle stir-fry with:
- Fresh lime wedges
- Sliced cucumber
- Steamed edamame
- Extra basil
- Crushed peanuts
- A simple Asian cucumber salad
With juicy shrimp, chewy noodles, crisp vegetables, fragrant basil, and a spicy savory sauce, this 15-minute stir-fry is a fast and satisfying meal when you don’t have much time to cook.