Welcome to your new favorite weeknight dinner solution: the **10-Minute Teriyaki Shrimp Recipe**! This incredibly quick, easy, and undeniably delicious dish brings the authentic flavors of Asian takeout right to your kitchen in a flash. Perfectly sautéed shrimp, coated in a luscious, homemade teriyaki sauce, forms the centerpiece of a meal that’s both healthy and utterly satisfying. Serve it alongside fluffy white rice and vibrant steamed broccoli for a complete, balanced, and family-friendly meal that’s ready in mere minutes.
Why This Teriyaki Shrimp Will Be Your New Go-To
Teriyaki sauce is a culinary staple in many households, and for good reason! Its savory, sweet, and tangy profile makes it incredibly versatile, transforming simple ingredients into memorable meals. While you might be familiar with classics like Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls or Easy Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry, it’s time to introduce a sensational seafood twist. This shrimp version is not just a delightful alternative; it’s a revelation in speed, ease, and flavor, proving that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.
Here’s why this 10-minute Teriyaki Shrimp recipe is destined to become a regular star in your busy weeknight rotation:
- Unbeatable Speed: True to its name, this dish is genuinely ready in approximately 10 minutes of active cooking time, making it faster than ordering takeout.
- Effortless Preparation: With straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, even novice cooks can achieve perfect results.
- Healthy & Wholesome: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, low in calories, and packed with essential nutrients. Paired with fresh vegetables and rice, it creates a well-rounded and nutritious meal.
- Bursting with Flavor: The homemade teriyaki sauce delivers a perfect balance of umami, sweetness, and a hint of tang that coats every piece of succulent shrimp.
- Highly Customizable: Easily adapt it with your favorite vegetables or serve it in various ways, from rice bowls to stir-fries.
- Family Favorite: Its universally appealing flavors make it a hit with both adults and children, simplifying mealtime for everyone.
Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Teriyaki Shrimp
Crafting this quick and delicious Teriyaki Shrimp dish requires just a few key ingredients. Focusing on quality will elevate your meal, but the beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and accessibility. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some tips for selecting the best components:
- Shrimp: The backbone of this recipe! For the best texture and visual appeal, opt for large or jumbo shrimp (21-25 count or larger). Avoid smaller “popcorn” shrimp, as they tend to shrink significantly when cooked and can become overcooked easily. Fresh shrimp from the seafood counter is ideal, but high-quality frozen shrimp (thawed properly) works just as well. To save time, look for shrimp that is already peeled and deveined. If not, you’ll need to do this yourself – it’s a small effort that pays off in a more enjoyable eating experience.
- Oil: A good cooking oil is essential for searing the shrimp to perfection. Olive oil is a popular choice for its mild flavor and health benefits. For an added layer of authentic Asian aroma, a small amount of sesame oil can be used. Remember, sesame oil is very potent, so a little goes a long way. You can use it solely, or combine it with a neutral cooking oil like olive oil or avocado oil.
- Teriyaki Sauce: The heart and soul of the dish! While many fantastic store-bought teriyaki sauces are available for ultimate convenience, I highly recommend trying the homemade version. It’s incredibly easy to whisk together from scratch and allows you to control the sweetness and sodium levels. The ingredients for the sauce are listed in the recipe card below, typically including soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil, ground ginger, minced garlic, cornstarch (for thickening), and water. Making it yourself ensures a fresh, vibrant flavor that truly elevates the shrimp.
Crafting Your Homemade Teriyaki Sauce
The beauty of homemade teriyaki sauce is its simplicity and the ability to customize its flavor profile. At its core, teriyaki balances salty, sweet, and umami notes. Here’s a closer look at the key components often found in the best homemade versions:
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: This is the foundation, providing the savory, umami depth. Using low-sodium allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish, preventing it from being overly salty. Tamari is an excellent gluten-free alternative.
- Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and a subtle caramel note, contributing to the signature glossy glaze of teriyaki. You can adjust the amount to your preference or even use maple syrup or honey for a different kind of sweetness.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Provides a crucial tangy counterpoint to the sweetness and richness, brightening the overall flavor. Rice vinegar is another excellent option.
- Sesame Oil (Optional but Recommended): A tiny drizzle of toasted sesame oil adds a wonderfully nutty, aromatic complexity that is characteristic of many Asian dishes. Use sparingly, as its flavor is quite strong.
- Ground Ginger & Minced Garlic: These aromatic powerhouses infuse the sauce with warmth and pungency. Freshly minced ginger and garlic offer the most vibrant flavor, but ground ginger and garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- Cornstarch and Water Slurry: This is the secret to a perfectly thick, glossy sauce. Cornstarch, when mixed with cold water, creates a slurry that, when added to hot liquid, thickens it beautifully without altering the flavor. This gives the teriyaki its characteristic sheen and allows it to cling to the shrimp.
How to Make 10-Minute Teriyaki Shrimp: Step-by-Step
Get ready to impress yourself with how quickly this flavorful dish comes together. The key is to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go, as shrimp cooks incredibly fast!
- Prepare the Shrimp: If your shrimp isn’t already peeled and deveined, take a few minutes to do so. This step is essential for a pleasant eating experience. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels; this helps them sear better and prevents a soggy outcome.
- Whisk the Teriyaki Sauce: In a small bowl or 1-cup measuring cup, combine all the sauce ingredients: low-sodium soy sauce, packed brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil (if using), ground ginger (if using), minced garlic, cornstarch, and water. Whisk vigorously until the cornstarch is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Set this aside right next to your stove, as you’ll need it quickly. Having your sauce ready is crucial because the shrimp cooks so rapidly.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat the olive oil (or chosen cooking oil) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the prepared shrimp in a single layer. Try not to overcrowd the pan, as this can steam the shrimp instead of searing it. Season the shrimp generously with salt and black pepper. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn opaque pink and curl slightly into a C-shape. Be careful not to overcook, as rubbery shrimp is a common pitfall!
- Add the Sauce: Once the shrimp are perfectly cooked, give your prepared teriyaki sauce another quick whisk, then pour it directly over the shrimp in the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer gently, stirring occasionally. The cornstarch will quickly work its magic, thickening the sauce to a beautiful, glossy glaze that coats every piece of shrimp. This usually takes just 1-2 minutes.
- Remove and Garnish: As soon as the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, remove the skillet from the heat to prevent overcooking the shrimp. Garnish your freshly made teriyaki shrimp with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and vibrant chopped green onions for extra flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. Serve your delicious teriyaki shrimp over a bed of steamed rice or noodles, and alongside your favorite steamed vegetables, such as crisp broccoli or snow peas.
Pro Tips for Perfect Teriyaki Shrimp Every Time:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the shrimp in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and a good sear.
- Pat Dry: Always pat shrimp completely dry before cooking. Moisture can prevent searing and lead to less flavorful results.
- Watch the Heat: High heat is great for searing, but once the sauce is added, reduce it to prevent scorching the sugar in the teriyaki sauce.
- Taste and Adjust: Before adding the sauce to the pan, taste it and adjust seasonings as needed. Want it sweeter? Add a pinch more brown sugar. Prefer more tang? A splash of vinegar.
Raw Shrimp vs. Cooked Shrimp: What’s Best?
When preparing this Teriyaki Shrimp recipe, you have the option of using either raw or pre-cooked shrimp. Both can yield a delicious meal, but there are subtle differences to consider for optimal flavor and texture.
Raw Shrimp: Whether fresh from the seafood counter or frozen in a bag, raw shrimp (which typically appears grey or translucent) is generally preferred for this recipe.
- Pros: Raw shrimp offers superior flavor and texture. It cooks up more tender and juicy, absorbing the teriyaki flavors more deeply as it cooks. You also have more control over the cooking process, reducing the risk of overcooking.
- Cons: It requires a bit more prep time for peeling and deveining, which some find tedious. However, you can often buy raw shrimp that is already peeled and deveined, significantly cutting down on prep.
- Cooking Raw Shrimp: Follow the recipe instructions precisely. Sauté the shrimp until it turns pink and opaque, then add the sauce.
Cooked Shrimp: These are typically sold pink and ready to eat, often found in the refrigerated or frozen sections of grocery stores.
- Pros: The main advantage is convenience. Since it’s already cooked, it saves a step in preparation, making your dinner even faster.
- Cons: Pre-cooked shrimp can sometimes be rubbery or less flavorful than raw shrimp, as it’s been cooked once already. It’s also more prone to becoming overcooked if reheated too intensely.
- Cooking Cooked Shrimp: If using pre-cooked shrimp, you’ll want to warm it through gently without cooking it further. Prepare the sauce as instructed. Then, briefly sauté the cooked shrimp in a little oil until just warmed, about 1-2 minutes. Pour the sauce over and simmer just long enough for the sauce to thicken and coat the shrimp, usually 1 minute or less. The goal is to heat it through without re-cooking it.
While I personally lean towards raw shrimp for its superior taste and texture, especially in a dish where it’s the star, cooked shrimp is a perfectly acceptable option when time is of the essence. Just be mindful of the cooking times to avoid a tough, chewy result.
Recipe Variations to Explore
This 10-Minute Teriyaki Shrimp recipe is wonderfully adaptable, serving as a fantastic base for numerous culinary adventures. Don’t hesitate to experiment with these delicious variations to keep things exciting:
- Teriyaki Shrimp Stir Fry: The most natural evolution! Before cooking the shrimp, sauté your favorite chopped vegetables in the skillet until crisp-tender. Think broccoli florets, carrot sticks, bell peppers, snow peas, sliced onions, or cabbage. Once the vegetables are nearly done, add the shrimp and cook as directed, then toss everything together with the luscious teriyaki sauce. This makes for a complete, vibrant one-pan meal.
- Foil Pack Teriyaki Shrimp: Perfect for grilling or baking with minimal cleanup. Combine shrimp, teriyaki sauce, and quick-cooking vegetables like pineapple chunks, bell peppers, and snap peas in individual foil packets. Seal tightly and cook on a grill or in the oven until the shrimp is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. This method infuses flavors beautifully.
- Sheet Pan Teriyaki Shrimp: Another fantastic option for easy baking and cleanup. On a large sheet pan, spread out your shrimp, along with vegetables like broccoli florets, pineapple pieces, or asparagus. Drizzle with teriyaki sauce and bake in a hot oven until the shrimp is pink and the vegetables are tender. One pan, one delicious dinner!
- Spicy Teriyaki Shrimp: For those who love a kick, add a dash of red pepper flakes, a squeeze of sriracha, or a touch of chili garlic sauce to your homemade teriyaki sauce.
- Teriyaki Shrimp Skewers: Thread shrimp and colorful vegetables (like bell peppers and red onion) onto skewers. Brush generously with teriyaki sauce and grill or broil until cooked. This makes a fantastic presentation for gatherings or a fun meal for kids.
- Noodle Bowl: Instead of rice, serve your teriyaki shrimp over your favorite Asian noodles (udon, ramen, lo mein, or rice noodles) for a heartier noodle bowl experience.
What to Serve with Teriyaki Shrimp
While the teriyaki shrimp itself is the star, the accompaniments play a crucial role in creating a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some popular and delicious ideas for what to serve alongside your quick teriyaki shrimp:
- Fluffy Rice: A classic pairing! Whether it’s white rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice, a bed of perfectly cooked, fluffy rice is ideal for soaking up the savory teriyaki sauce.
- Steamed Broccoli: Crisp, vibrant, and healthy, steamed broccoli is a fantastic complement. Its slightly bitter notes provide a wonderful contrast to the sweet and savory sauce. You can also lightly sauté the broccoli in a bit of sesame oil for added flavor.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice is an excellent choice. It’s light, absorbs flavors well, and keeps the meal remarkably healthy.
- Asian Noodles: Beyond rice, consider serving with warm ramen, udon, or lo mein noodles for a heartier, more slurp-worthy meal.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a very low-carb and refreshing option, serve the teriyaki shrimp in crisp lettuce cups (like butter lettuce or iceberg). Add a sprinkle of shredded carrots or cucumbers for extra crunch.
- Other Steamed or Sautéed Vegetables: Expand beyond broccoli! Green beans, snap peas, bell peppers, carrots, asparagus, or bok choy all make excellent additions, either steamed separately or tossed into a stir-fry with the shrimp.
- Garnishings: Don’t underestimate the power of garnishes! Chopped green onions (scallions) add a fresh, pungent bite and a pop of color. Toasted sesame seeds provide a delightful nutty crunch. A squeeze of fresh lime juice can also brighten the flavors.
However you choose to serve it, this Teriyaki Shrimp is always a hit! It’s versatile enough to fit into various dietary preferences and culinary styles, ensuring a delicious outcome every time.
Recipe FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Here are some frequently asked questions about making this 10-Minute Teriyaki Shrimp recipe, along with helpful tips and insights:
Can I use frozen shrimp to make this?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp is a fantastic, convenient option. Opt for peeled and deveined frozen shrimp to save even more time and effort. Before cooking, ensure you thaw the shrimp properly. The best way is to place it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can thaw it by placing the sealed bag of shrimp under cold running water for about 15-20 minutes. Once thawed, pat the shrimp thoroughly dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear and prevent excess moisture from diluting the sauce.
Can I bake the shrimp in the oven instead of pan-frying?
Yes, baking is a great idea for a hands-off approach and easy cleanup! To bake, simply place the raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp in a single layer in a shallow baking dish or on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper. Pour the whisked teriyaki sauce over the shrimp, stirring gently to ensure all pieces are coated. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 9 to 12 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque pink and cooked through. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
How do I know if the shrimp are cooked perfectly?
Shrimp cooks very quickly, so vigilance is key to avoid rubbery results. Raw shrimp will turn from translucent grey to an opaque pink color when cooked. They will also curl slightly into a “C” shape. Typically, this takes only 2-3 minutes per side when pan-frying over medium-high heat. If your shrimp curls tightly into an “O” shape, it’s likely overcooked. The moment you see them turn pink, flip them and cook for another minute or two, then immediately remove them from the heat or add the sauce.
Can I prepare the teriyaki sauce ahead of time?
Yes, preparing the teriyaki sauce in advance is a fantastic time-saving tip! You can whisk all the sauce ingredients together and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to use, give it a good whisk again, as the cornstarch may settle at the bottom.
How do I store and reheat leftover teriyaki shrimp?
Store any leftover teriyaki shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat with a tablespoon of water or broth, just until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the shrimp tough. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this teriyaki shrimp recipe gluten-free, simply substitute regular soy sauce with a certified gluten-free tamari. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check labels, especially for any store-bought sauces if you choose that option.
More Delicious Seafood Dinner Recipes
If you’ve enjoyed this quick and flavorful Teriyaki Shrimp, you’re in for a treat! Seafood is a fantastic option for fast, healthy, and delicious meals, and there are many more recipes to explore. Here are a few more dinner ideas featuring shrimp and other delightful fish that are sure to become family favorites:
- Shrimp and Broccoli:A simple yet incredibly satisfying combination, this dish pairs tender shrimp with crisp broccoli florets in a light, savory sauce, perfect for a balanced meal.
- 15-Minute Creamy Tuscan Shrimp:Indulge in a rich and creamy sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, creating an elegant dish that comes together in just 15 minutes.
- Salmon Foil Packets:A hassle-free way to cook moist and flavorful salmon with your favorite vegetables, all wrapped in a neat foil packet for easy cleanup and incredible taste.
- Crispy Parmesan Tilapia:Light, flaky tilapia coated in a savory Parmesan crust, baked to crispy perfection for a quick and impressive fish dinner.
If you like this recipe and make it, let me know in the comments below! Don’t forget to rate it if you enjoyed it!
10-Minute Teriyaki Shrimp Recipe
Author: Anna
This 10-Minute Teriyaki Shrimp Recipe is a quick and easy seafood takeout dinner that’s healthy and delicious. Sauté shrimp with easy homemade teriyaki sauce and serve with rice and steamed broccoli.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb medium or large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Garnish:
- Toasted sesame seeds (optional)
- Chopped green onions
Instructions
- In a measuring cup, whisk together all of the sauce ingredients. Set aside, close to the stove.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and pepper. Cook until pink, about 2 to 3 minutes per side.
- Pour the whisked sauce mixture over the shrimp and cook on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Remove from heat immediately to prevent overcooking the shrimp.
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds (if using) and chopped green onions.
- Serve hot with rice or noodles and steamed vegetables, such as broccoli.
Notes
- All optional ingredients are recommended for enhanced flavor but are not strictly necessary.
- The provided calorie count does not include any accompanying rice or broccoli.
- Please note that nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and products used. Always consult a calorie counter you are familiar with for precise information.
Nutrition
Leave a comment with rating below!