Easy Steak and Shrimp Stir-Fried Noodles

STEAK SHRIMP STIR-FRIED NOODLES: The Only Recipe You’ll Ever Need

Craving a vibrant, satisfying meal that’s both restaurant-worthy and surprisingly easy to make at home? Look no further than these incredible Steak and Shrimp Noodles. Forget takeout menus; this shrimp noodle recipe delivers a symphony of flavors and textures with tender slices of steak, succulent shrimp, crisp vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles, all coated in a savory sauce that’ll have you coming back for more. If you’re searching for the ultimate steak shrimp stir fry that bridges the gap between quick weeknight dinners and impressive weekend feasts, you’ve found your match!

Imagine the tantalizing aroma of garlic and onion sizzling in the wok, followed by the sound of perfectly seared steak and plump shrimp, their natural sweetness enhanced by the savory depth of soy and oyster sauces. Each forkful offers a delightful contrast: the slight chew of the noodles, the tender bite of the steak, the firm snap of the shrimp, and the fresh crunch of bell peppers and onions. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience for your senses, a true celebration of Asian-inspired cuisine that promises pure culinary joy.

At Cooking With Emy, we believe that every home cook deserves to create show-stopping dishes with confidence. This Asian steak noodles recipe has been meticulously tested to ensure foolproof results every single time. Our “Secret Marinade Method”—a simple yet transformative step we reveal below—is the key to unlocking unparalleled tenderness in the steak and infusing every ingredient with incredible flavor. Get ready to master the art of the perfect stir-fry and impress yourself and everyone you cook for!

Why This STEAK SHRIMP STIR-FRIED NOODLES Recipe is a Game-Changer

The Chef’s Secret: The Marinade for Max Flavor

The true magic behind these unforgettable steak and shrimp noodles lies in a simple, yet crucial, marinating step for the steak. While many recipes skip this for speed, we’ve discovered that marinating the thinly sliced flank steak for just 10-15 minutes prior to cooking makes an astronomical difference in tenderness and flavor delivery. Our “Secret Marinade Method” involves a blend of soy sauce, a touch of cornstarch (which creates a protective barrier and helps achieve a beautiful sear), and a hint of black pepper. This not only tenderizes the steak but also ensures that each piece acts as a flavor sponge, soaking up the deliciousness from the sauce and aromatics during the stir-fry. It’s the small step that transforms average steak into melt-in-your-mouth perfection, making this steak stir fry recipe truly superior.

Unbeatable Texture & Flavor Harmony

The beauty of this shrimp noodle recipe is its exquisite balance of textures and complementary flavors. The high heat and quick cooking of the stir-fry process are crucial here. Searing the steak and shrimp rapidly locks in their juices, ensuring they remain tender and succulent. The crisp-tender vegetables add a delightful freshness and crunch, preventing the dish from becoming monotonous. When tossed with yielding noodles and bathed in a savory sauce, the result is a complex yet cohesive dish where every element shines. This dish is a testament to how simple ingredients, when treated with the right technique, can create something truly extraordinary.

Foolproof for a Reason

We understand that stir-frying can sometimes feel intimidating, with its rapid pace and need for precision. That’s why this steak and shrimp stir fry recipe has been designed for maximum success. From the clear, step-by-step instructions to the specific ingredient ratios, every detail has been honed through rigorous testing. We guide you through the searing process, the vegetable cooking times, and the final saucing, ensuring that even novice cooks can achieve restaurant-quality results. The straightforward nature of this recipe means you can confidently whip up a gourmet meal any night of the week.

Ingredient Spotlight: Quality Makes the Difference

• Flank Steak: For the best flavor and tenderness in your steak and shrimp noodles, opt for a good quality flank steak. Its naturally beefy flavor and texture hold up wonderfully to high-heat searing. Thinly slice it against the grain for maximum tenderness; this is non-negotiable for a superior steak stir fry recipe. If flank steak is unavailable, skirt steak or even sirloin can be used as substitutes, though flank steak often provides the best balance of flavor and value.
• Large Shrimp: Plump, succulent shrimp are essential for this shrimp noodle recipe. Choose large or jumbo shrimp for the best visual appeal and satisfying bite. Ensure they are peeled and deveined for ease of eating. Fresh shrimp are always ideal, but high-quality frozen shrimp, thawed properly, will also work beautifully. Avoid overcooking, as they can become rubbery very quickly—a common pitfall we’ll help you avoid.
• Stir-Fry Noodles: The base of our Asian steak noodles! While any good quality stir-fry noodle will work, we love using fresh ramen-style noodles or udon noodles for their satisfying chew. Dried egg noodles or even spaghetti can be used as convenient substitutes if needed. The key is to cook them just until al dente, as they will continue to cook and absorb sauce in the wok.
• Fresh Vegetables (Red Bell Pepper & Onion): These aren’t just for color; they add critical freshness, sweetness, and a delightful crunch to your steak and shrimp stir fry. Red bell peppers offer a mild sweetness and vibrant hue, while yellow or red onions provide a pungent, savory depth. Feel free to add other crisp-tender vegetables like broccoli florets, snow peas, snap peas, or carrots for added complexity and nutrition.
• Garlic: The aromatic backbone of almost any great stir-fry! Freshly minced garlic adds an indispensable pungent kick that complements the steak and shrimp perfectly. Don’t skimp on this; it’s a cornerstone of the sauce’s flavor profile in this steak and shrimp noodles dish.
• Soy Sauce & Oyster Sauce: These are the stars of our savory sauce. Use a good quality, low-sodium soy sauce for a balanced, umami-rich flavor without excessive saltiness. Oyster sauce adds a subtle sweetness, deep savory notes, and a glossy finish to the sauce – it’s crucial for achieving that authentic stir-fry taste.
• Sesame Oil: A drizzle of toasted sesame oil at the end of cooking imparts a wonderful nutty aroma and flavor that is quintessentially Asian. It’s often used as a finishing oil, so adding it just before serving preserves its delicate fragrance.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Steak

First, ensure your flank steak is thinly sliced against the grain. In a small bowl, combine the sliced steak with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, and a pinch of black pepper. Toss to coat evenly and let it marinate for at least 10-15 minutes while you prepare other ingredients. This “Secret Marinade” will ensure incredibly tender steak.

Pro Tip: Partially freezing the steak for about 20-30 minutes before slicing makes it much easier to achieve paper-thin, uniform slices.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Bring a pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add your 8 oz of stir-fry noodles and cook according to package directions until just al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Overcooked noodles will become mushy in the stir-fry. Drain them immediately and, to prevent sticking, you can toss them with a tiny bit of sesame oil or a splash of cold water. Set aside.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t overcook the noodles! Remember, they will be stir-fried with other ingredients, absorbing more heat and sauce. Aim for a texture that still has a slight bite.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Steak and Shrimp

Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil (like canola or vegetable oil) in a wok or large skillet over high heat until it shimmers. Add the marinated steak in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Remove the steak from the wok and set aside. Add another tablespoon of oil if needed, then add the cleaned shrimp. Cook for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until pink and just opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside with the steak.

Pro Tip: Using a hot wok is crucial for achieving a good sear. Don’t be afraid of high heat – it’s the key to tender steak and perfectly cooked shrimp.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables

Add the minced garlic, sliced onion, and bell pepper to the hot wok. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes, or until the vegetables are crisp-tender and the onion is slightly softened but still has a bit of bite. You want them to retain some of their fresh crunch.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t burn the garlic! Add it towards the end of the vegetable sautéing time, or it can turn bitter.

Step 5: Combine and Sauce

Return the seared steak and shrimp to the wok with the vegetables. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Pour this sauce over the ingredients in the wok. Toss everything together to coat evenly. Allow it to bubble and thicken slightly for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Pro Tip: Having your sauce ingredients pre-mixed and ready to go makes this step much smoother. Stir-frying is fast-paced!

Step 6: Add Noodles and Finish

Add the cooked and drained stir-fry noodles to the wok. Toss gently but thoroughly to combine them with the steak, shrimp, vegetables, and sauce. Continue to stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes, just until the noodles are heated through and well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving immediately. Enjoy your vibrant steak and shrimp noodles!

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t over-stir the noodles once they’re in the wok, especially if they’re delicate, to prevent them from breaking apart.

Serving & Presentation

Present this beautiful steak and shrimp stir fry piping hot directly from the wok. For an extra touch of elegance and a burst of freshness, garnish generously with thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a few slivers of red chili can add a pop of color and a touch of heat. This dish is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a light, refreshing side salad or some steamed edamame. For a drink pairing, consider a crisp lager, a dry Riesling, or a glass of chilled green tea.

Make-Ahead & Storage Solutions

Make-Ahead Strategy: To save time on busy nights, you can prep many components in advance. Slice and marinate the steak (store separately in the marinade in the fridge for up to 24 hours). Chop and store vegetables in an airtight container. Prepare the sauce mixture and store it in a small jar. Cook the noodles up to 2 days ahead and store them lightly tossed with a little oil in the fridge. The shrimp should be prepped just before cooking for optimal texture.

Storing Leftovers: Once cooled, store any leftover steak and shrimp noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to separate any garnishes that might wilt.

The Best Way to Reheat: The ideal way to reheat this dish is in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat with a splash of water or a little extra soy sauce. Stir-fry until heated through, which should only take a few minutes. This helps restore some of the original texture without making the noodles mushy, unlike microwaving, which can sometimes result in uneven heating and undesirable texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)