Shrimp Pad Thai

Shrimp Pad Thai is one of my all-time favorite meals! This dinner recipe features tender shrimp, rice noodles, and the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. It’s always a satisfying dish that brings a bit of excitement to dinner time.

Well, the holidays are over, and it’s time to lock back into a routine. For me, that means finding recipes I can make that taste great but don’t take too much time in the kitchen. This dish absolutely fits the bill! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s perfect for those busy evenings when you still want something delicious and homemade.

Trust me, once you make this, you’ll want to keep this popular stir-fried noodle dish handy for quick weeknight meals.

This noodle dish is inspired by the perfect version of Shrimp Pad Thai I found in a local restaurant. Sometimes I have a hard time finding somewhere that makes Thai food just the way I like it. So, what does a food blogger do? Take it into my own kitchen and create the perfect version to have at home anytime! This way, I can enjoy the same incredible flavors without needing to leave the house.

Ingredients Needed for Pad Thai with Shrimp

The ingredients for Pad Thai are pretty simple, with a few interesting ingredients for the sauce and garnish. You’ll find the list easy to put together, and the dish comes together quickly. Here’s what you need for this Thai recipe:

Pad Thai Ingredients

• Pad Thai Rice noodles (these are a kind of flat rice noodles)
• Vegetable oil
• Shrimp, deveined
• Butter
• Large eggs

Pad Thai Sauce

• Water
• Brown sugar
• Lime juice
• Peanut butter
• Fish sauce
• Soy sauce
• Chili Sauce

Garnish Ingredients

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Chopped peanuts
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Be sure to review the recipe card at the bottom of the post for detailed ingredients and directions!

How to make Shrimp Pad Thai

You can make this stir fry recipe in just a few easy steps! Here’s how to do it:

1. Bring 4-5 quarts of water to boil in a large saucepan. Add noodles and boil for 4-5 minutes. Drain and rinse the noodles under cold water and set them aside.
2. While the noodles cook, heat the sauce ingredients (water, brown sugar, lime juice, peanut butter, fish sauce, soy sauce, and chili sauce) in a small saucepan, stirring occasionally, until the sugar fully dissolves and the peanut butter is fully incorporated. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add a few tablespoons of oil to a large skillet or wok. Add your shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes over medium-high heat, tossing to cook them evenly.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet. Add the butter and let it melt, then add your eggs. Scramble until fully cooked.
5. Reduce the heat under the skillet to low. Add the sauce, noodles, and shrimp to the eggs, then toss until well combined.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, peanuts, and lime wedges. Serve and enjoy!

Recipe Additions

• Many versions of Pad Thai include fresh bean sprouts, blanched broccoli and green onions or scallions as well. Feel free to include them as you stir fry!
• You can use palm sugar instead of brown sugar. 
• Don’t like fish sauce? You can use oyster sauce or equal parts vinegar and soy sauce instead. 

FAQs

Where do I find things like fish sauce?

You can find rice noodles, fish sauce, and soy sauce in the Asian or International Aisle of your regular grocery store, or you can check out international or Asian grocery stores.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Pad Thai?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure it is thawed properly before using it so you don’t add excess moisture to the dish.

Can I make this with another protein?

Substitute chicken pieces instead of shrimp for Chicken Pad Thai, or use tofu and omit the fish sauce for a vegetarian Pad Thai!

Why aren’t you using tamarind paste?

Tamarind paste is hard to find in some places, so I’m using a combination of brown sugar and lime juice in the sauce as a substitute. Feel free to use it if you like it and can find it easily!

How can I make this dish more spicy?

If you like your Thai more spicy, you can add more chili paste to the sauce, or you can add some crushed red pepper flakes.

How do I store leftover Shrimp Pad Thai?

Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet with a little oil, tossing until warmed through!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Shrimp Pad Thai tastes best when made fresh, so while you can prep some of your ingredients ahead of time, I recommend making and serving it right away.

More Shrimp Recipes

If you enjoy eating shrimp for dinner, here are some easy recipes you should try next time:

• This Shrimp Noodle Bowl features grilled shrimp, tender rice noodles, and ginger in a lemon curry sauce. It’s delicious, refreshing, and perfect for lunch or a light dinner! The bright flavors come together effortlessly, making it a delightful meal that feels both healthy and satisfying.
• This creamy Shrimp with Mushrooms and Peas is an easy one-pot meal that’s comforting and hearty. The sauce begins with a rich seafood stock, seasoned with spices, and everything is topped with a generous sprinkle of cheese, adding a luxurious touch.
• These copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp are made with crispy shrimp tossed in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce that’s simply irresistible. They make the perfect appetizer for any night, whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy evening at home.
• You’ll love these Spicy Tequila Shrimp Tacos, served with a side of flavorful Mexican rice and a tangy cilantro lime cream. Bursting with vibrant flavors, they’re so easy to make, making them a fantastic option for dinner anytime you’re craving Mexican food!

What is your favorite way to eat shrimp? And let us know how you enjoyed this dish in the comments below!

This post was originally published December 1, 2016. It has been updated in format and with photos on January 9, 2025.