Garlic Butter Steak and Shrimp Stir-Fried Noodles – A Flavor-Packed Takeout Classic at Home

Introduction:

Craving the rich, savory flavors of your favorite Asian takeout but want to skip the delivery fee and make it at home? This Garlic Butter Steak and Shrimp Stir-Fried Noodles recipe is your perfect solution. It brings together tender slices of beef steak, juicy shrimp, and noodles tossed in a garlicky butter-based sauce that’s both comforting and crave-worthy. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or treating guests, this dish offers bold umami flavors and a satisfying mix of textures in every bite.

In this guide, we’ll dive into the detailed preparation of this beloved fusion stir-fry, explore its ingredients, discover its background, offer pairing suggestions, suggest variations for customization, highlight health benefits, and answer common questions so you can master this dish like a pro.

Overview of the Recipe:

This garlic butter steak and shrimp stir-fried noodles recipe features thinly sliced beef steak and shrimp cooked to perfection, combined with tender noodles, and tossed in a garlicky, buttery soy-based sauce. The use of everyday pantry staples such as soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, and sesame oil makes this dish accessible while delivering restaurant-quality flavor. It’s quick, customizable, and bursting with savory depth and umami.

History and Origin:

While this exact combination of ingredients may not hail from a specific traditional dish, the concept is deeply rooted in the Asian stir-fry tradition—particularly from Chinese and Southeast Asian cuisines, where quick cooking over high heat and bold sauces are key.

Garlic butter as a fusion element likely originated from Western culinary traditions but has been seamlessly adapted into Asian dishes to amplify richness and depth. Stir-fried noodles, whether lo mein or chow mein, have long been a staple of Asian households, with protein variations added to suit regional preferences and availability. The combination of beef and shrimp in a garlic butter sauce is a modern twist that reflects global culinary integration.

Ingredients:

For the Protein:

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/2 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, thinly sliced (or any preferred beef cut)

• 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

For the Noodles & Sauce:

• 8 oz stir-fry noodles (lo mein, ramen, or spaghetti)

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, adds sweetness)

• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• 2 green onions, chopped

• Sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Noodles:

• Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

• Add the stir-fry noodles (lo mein, ramen, or spaghetti). Cook according to the package instructions until just tender (al dente).

• Once cooked, drain the noodles in a colander and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking process.

• Set the noodles aside while preparing the other components.

2. Prepare the Steak & Shrimp:

• Pat dry the thinly sliced beef steak with a paper towel. Season with salt, black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of soy sauce.

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

• Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the beef slices in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan.

• Sear the steak slices for 2–3 minutes per side until they develop a nice brown crust and are cooked to your preferred doneness.

• Remove the steak from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

• In the same skillet, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Sear them for 2 minutes per side or until they turn pink and are opaque throughout.

• Remove the shrimp and place them with the steak.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• Reduce the heat to medium.

• In the same pan (do not clean it – the flavor remnants add depth), add 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter.

• Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic.

• Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Avoid browning it.

• Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce (if using), 1/2 teaspoon of sesame oil, and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using).

• Mix well until the sauce is fully combined and bubbling slightly.

4. Stir-Fry Everything Together:

• Add the cooked noodles directly into the pan with the sauce.

• Toss the noodles thoroughly so that each strand is coated evenly with the garlic butter sauce. Use tongs or chopsticks to mix well.

• Return the cooked steak and shrimp to the pan. Stir everything together until the beef and shrimp are evenly distributed and everything is heated through.

• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. You can add a splash more soy sauce for extra umami or a pinch of salt if necessary.

5. Garnish and Serve:

• Turn off the heat and transfer the stir-fry to a serving platter or keep it in the skillet for a rustic presentation.

• Sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top for garnish.

• Serve immediately while hot.

Serving Suggestions:

This garlic butter steak and shrimp noodle dish is satisfying as a standalone entrée, but you can enhance your meal with:

• A side of steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bok choy, or snap peas

• A fresh cucumber salad with sesame dressing for a refreshing contrast

• A bowl of miso soup or egg drop soup for a cozy starter

• Jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for those who want a lower-carb companion

Pairing and Serving Suggestions:

While this dish is already complete, beverages like:

• Iced green tea

• Sparkling water with lemon or cucumber

• Ginger ale or a ginger-infused mocktail

These all complement the savory umami and garlic notes beautifully. Avoid sweet drinks that may overpower the savory components.

Variations of the Recipe:

Protein Swaps:

• Use chicken breast or chicken ham instead of steak

• Try tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version

• Add scallops for a deluxe seafood variation

Noodle Options:

• Substitute lo mein with soba, udon, or rice noodles for a different texture

• Use zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles for a low-carb version

Vegetable Add-Ins:

• Bell peppers, shredded carrots, snow peas, or baby spinach

• Add mushrooms like shiitake or cremini for extra umami

Spice It Up:

• Add chili garlic paste or Sriracha for more heat

• Include minced ginger with the garlic for added zing

Health Benefits Notes:

Despite its indulgent flavor, this dish can offer nutritional benefits:

• Beef Steak: A great source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12

• Shrimp: High in lean protein, low in calories, and rich in selenium and iodine

• Garlic: Boosts immunity and has anti-inflammatory properties

• Olive Oil & Sesame Oil: Healthy fats that support heart health

• Green Onions: Provide antioxidants and essential vitamins

• Optional Veggies: Adding bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas boosts fiber, vitamins A and C

For a healthier version, consider reducing butter, using whole wheat noodles, and adding more vegetables.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

Q: What kind of noodles work best?
A: Lo mein is ideal for authenticity, but ramen, spaghetti, or even rice noodles work well.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, but for best texture, store the noodles and sauce separately and combine when reheating.

Q: What can I use instead of oyster sauce?
A: You can use mushroom stir-fry sauce or a mix of soy sauce with a touch of brown sugar for similar depth.

Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: Not by default. To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure all sauces (hoisin, oyster) are labeled gluten-free. Use rice noodles instead of wheat noodles.

Conclusion:

This Garlic Butter Steak and Shrimp Stir-Fried Noodles recipe is the ultimate comfort meal that brings restaurant-style flavor to your kitchen with minimal effort. It’s a dynamic blend of juicy shrimp, tender beef, and slurp-worthy noodles, all enveloped in a buttery garlic sauce that’s both rich and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving something cozy and bold, this dish will quickly become a staple in your home.

With the flexibility to swap ingredients and adjust flavors, this recipe is endlessly customizable and suited to a variety of dietary preferences. Packed with flavor, nutrients, and an irresistible aroma, it’s a one-pan meal that delivers on every level.