There’s something so comforting about a big bowl of lo mein.

This Shrimp Lo Mein brings together tender shrimp, colorful vegetables, and noodles tossed in a savory-sweet sauce that coats every strand. I

t’s a takeout classic you can easily make at home, full of flavor and better than what you’d order out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s quick and comes together in under 40 minutes.

The shrimp stays juicy and flavorful thanks to a simple marinade.

The sauce is balanced with savory soy, sweet brown sugar, and tangy vinegar.

It’s a flexible dish—you can swap in your favorite vegetables or noodles.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Shrimp – use medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined, for a tender bite.

Soy sauce – both in the marinade and the sauce for depth of flavor.

Brown sugar – balances the saltiness with just the right sweetness.

Hoisin sauce – adds a rich, umami note that makes the sauce irresistible.

Garlic and ginger – the aromatics that give this dish its signature flavor.

Vegetables – bell peppers, broccoli, cabbage, and carrots add crunch and color.

Spaghetti – a convenient substitute for lo mein noodles, widely available.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Marinate shrimp briefly with cornstarch and baking soda to tenderize.

Cook pasta just shy of al dente since it will finish in the skillet.

Have all ingredients prepped before stir-frying—it moves quickly.

Toss noodles in the sauce thoroughly so every bite is flavorful.

How to Make Shrimp Lo Mein

Step 1 – Cook the noodles

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package directions.

Drain and set aside.

Step 2 – Prepare the sauce

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, rice wine vinegar, cornstarch, and browning sauce (if using). Set aside.

Step 3 – Marinate the shrimp

at shrimp dry. Toss with cornstarch, baking soda, soy sauce, and sesame oil.

Let sit while you heat the pan.

Step 4 – Cook the shrimp

Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

Sear shrimp on both sides until almost cooked through, then remove and set aside.

Step 5 – Sauté aromatics

In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, and ginger.

Cook until fragrant.

Step 6 – Cook the vegetables

Add bell peppers, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, and scallions.

Stir-fry until crisp-tender.

Step 7 – Combine noodles and sauce

Add cooked noodles to the skillet.

Pour the sauce over and toss until noodles and veggies are evenly coated.

Step 8 – Finish with shrimp

Return shrimp to the skillet.

Toss everything together and cook for 1–2 minutes until shrimp are fully cooked and flavors come together. Serve hot.

What to Serve It With

Pair with egg rolls or spring rolls for a takeout-style meal.

Add a side of steamed dumplings or potstickers.

Serve with hot tea or a light Asian-style cucumber salad.

For extra protein, add a fried egg on top.

Variations / Substitutions

Swap shrimp for chicken, beef, or tofu.

Use rice noodles or lo mein noodles instead of spaghetti.

Add mushrooms, snow peas, or baby corn for extra veggies.

Make it spicy with a drizzle of sriracha or chili flakes.

For a lighter version, use zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.

Storage & Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture.

Add a splash of soy sauce or broth when reheating to loosen the noodles.

Freeze is not recommended as shrimp can become rubbery after thawing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before marinating.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely—skip the shrimp and add tofu or more vegetables.

Do I have to use spaghetti?
No, lo mein noodles or even linguine work well if available.

How can I make it spicier?
Add chili garlic sauce, sriracha, or red pepper flakes to the sauce.

What vegetables work best in lo mein?
Bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, cabbage, mushrooms, and snow peas all work great.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, it can be whisked together up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Lo Mein is a weeknight-friendly meal that tastes like restaurant takeout but fresher and customizable.

With juicy shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a sauce that clings to every noodle, it’s a dish that everyone will love.

Once you try it, you may never order lo mein again.