Cache & Cook

Quick recipes with shrimp and noodles

Got shrimp and noodles and not sure what to make? Here are 8 easy dinners you can cook tonight. Each one keeps to everyday ingredients and a single skillet or sheet pan where possible, with rough prep and cook times so you can pick by how much time you have. Prefer to cook with exactly what's on your shelf? Tell Cache & Cook what you have and it drafts a recipe free.

Common questions

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh for these recipes?
Yes, frozen shrimp works great and is often cheaper—just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water for 15 minutes, then pat dry before cooking. Frozen shrimp are typically pre-cooked or wild-caught, so they cook faster than fresh.
What type of noodles work best with shrimp?
Egg noodles, rice noodles, ramen, and spaghetti all pair well with shrimp—choose based on your recipe's sauce style (heavier sauces work with egg or wheat noodles, while light broths suit rice or ramen noodles). Thinner noodles cook faster, so they're ideal if you're in a rush.
How long does shrimp and noodle dish keep in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; keep noodles and shrimp together or separate them to prevent noodles from getting too soft. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of water or broth rather than the microwave to maintain texture.
Can I make this healthier by using different noodles?
Swap regular noodles for whole wheat, chickpea, or zucchini noodles to boost fiber and protein while reducing carbs. Just note that vegetable noodles cook much faster (often 2-3 minutes), so add them toward the end to avoid mushiness.
What's a cheap way to bulk up a shrimp and noodle dish?
Add plenty of vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, or cabbage—they're inexpensive and make the dish more filling while keeping shrimp as the star. You can also stretch the meal by serving it over a larger portion of noodles or adding a side of rice.
How do I prevent my shrimp from becoming tough and rubbery?
Cook shrimp for only 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque—overcooked shrimp toughens quickly. Remove them from heat as soon as they're done and set aside, then add them back at the very end if the recipe requires further simmering.