There's something utterly satisfying about slurping up saucy, tender noodles mixed with crisp-tender vegetables and juicy shrimp—and that's exactly what this Shrimp Lo Mein with Sesame Ginger Sauce delivers. If you've ever been tempted by the rich flavors of Chinese takeout, especially those bold, savory noodles from a local spot or even a Panda Express lo mein recipe, this homemade version will blow your mind. It's healthier, faster than delivery, and loaded with flavor from scratch-made sesame ginger sauce that’s both aromatic and deeply umami. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable—so whether you’re craving a veggie lo mein recipe, something more protein-packed, or just looking to explore easy Chinese recipes, this dish checks all the boxes.
Shrimp Lo Mein with Sesame Ginger Sauce
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Chinese
Large skillet or wok A wok is traditional for Chinese cooking recipes and gives you the ability to stir-fry quickly over high heat. A deep nonstick skillet works great too.
Medium pot For boiling your noodles.
Tongs or a spatula To toss and stir-fry the ingredients evenly.
Grater or microplane For fresh ginger (makes a huge difference).
Mixing bowl To whisk up the sesame ginger sauce.
For the Sauce
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar for a deeper sweetness
- 1 tablespoon rice vinega
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch to thicken the sauce
- ¼ cup water
For the Stir Fry
- 8 oz lo mein noodles or ramen noodles if that’s what you have
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil like canola or vegetable
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
- 1 cup snow peas
- 1 medium carrot julienned
- ½ small red onion thinly sliced
- 2 green onions chopped (reserve green tops for garnish)
- 1 cup shredded napa cabbage optional but adds great texture
- Toasted sesame seeds for garnish
- Lime wedges optional, but adds brightness
Prepare the Noodles
Cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. If using ramen noodles, follow the same approach (skip the seasoning packet). Set aside.
Make the Sesame Ginger Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water. This blend will thicken as it cooks and coat your noodles with that iconic glossy sheen seen in your favorite lo mein recipes.
Cook the Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in your wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and sear for about 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
Add a touch more oil if needed, then toss in the bell pepper, carrot, onion, and snow peas. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until just tender but still crisp. Add the cabbage and green onion (white parts), and cook for 1 more minute. If you're looking for something closer to a chow mein recipe vegetable mix, feel free to include broccoli, bean sprouts, or mushrooms.
Combine Everything
Return the cooked shrimp to the pan, then add in the cooked noodles. Pour the sesame ginger sauce over everything. Toss well to coat, letting the sauce thicken and cling to the noodles (about 1-2 minutes).
Garnish and Serve
Top with green onion tops and toasted sesame seeds. A squeeze of lime juice adds a bright finishing touch. Serve hot and enjoy the savory-sweet-spicy balance of this easy lo mein recipe.
Pairings
Shrimp Lo Mein with Sesame Ginger Sauce is flavorful enough to be a standalone dinner, but here are a few side and drink pairings to complete your meal:
- Appetizers: Serve with steamed dumplings, crispy spring rolls, or a light wonton soup.
- Sides: Try garlic sautéed bok choy, sesame cucumber salad, or even a quick miso soup.
- Drinks: Pair with a cold jasmine tea, a light riesling, or a ginger beer for a zingy contrast.
If you’re planning a dinner recipes lineup for a themed night, this lo mein makes a great main course alongside other easy Chinese recipes like sweet and sour chicken, Chinese scallion pancakes, or homemade egg fried rice.
FAQs
1. What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?
Use large or extra-large shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Tail-on shrimp look great for presentation but tail-off makes eating easier. Frozen shrimp are fine—just thaw them completely and pat dry.
2. Can I substitute chicken or beef instead of shrimp?
Absolutely. If you’re craving a chicken lo mein recipe easy enough for weeknights, swap the shrimp for thinly sliced chicken breast or thigh. Sear until golden and cooked through, then follow the rest of the recipe as written. For beef, flank steak or sirloin are great options.
3. Are lo mein noodles different from chow mein noodles?
Yes. Lo mein noodles are soft and chewy, typically boiled before being tossed in sauce. Chow mein noodles are often thinner and either stir-fried or deep-fried for a crisp texture. You can easily convert this into a vegetable lo mein recipe or chow mein-style by switching up the noodle prep.
4. Is this a healthy lo mein recipe?
Compared to takeout, definitely. This version uses less oil, fresh vegetables, and lean protein. You can reduce the sodium by using low-sodium soy sauce and skipping hoisin or oyster sauce, though those do add rich flavor. It's one of the more balanced dinner recipes you can make at home.
5. Can I use ramen noodles for lo mein?
Yes! If you're looking to try a lo mein with ramen noodles, just toss cooked ramen (discard the seasoning packet) into the stir fry and follow the same method. The texture will be a bit softer but still delicious.
