When dinner indecision strikes—should it be shrimp or steak?—this recipe boldly answers: why not both? Shrimp Teriyaki Steak Noodles is a sizzling, savory mash-up that brings together the smoky depth of Cajun-spiced shrimp, the tender bite of pan-seared steak, and the sweet-salty glaze of teriyaki, all tangled with perfectly cooked noodles.
This dish isn’t just a flavor bomb—it’s also surprisingly simple. With just one pan and a handful of accessible ingredients, you can craft a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, casual entertaining, or any time you crave something bold without spending hours cooking.
In this complete guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know—from prepping ingredients and cooking techniques to expert tips, storage advice, and flavorful variations. Ready to transform dinner into something unforgettable?
1. Why You’ll Love This Dish
This meal is a celebration of contrasts—sweet and salty, soft and crisp, light and rich. Here’s why it deserves a place in your recipe box:
- One Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
- Quick & Easy: Done in 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Customizable: Make it spicy, low-carb, gluten-free, or veggie-packed.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Adults love the richness; kids love the noodles.
- Balanced: Lean protein from shrimp and steak, fiber-rich veggies, satisfying carbs.
2. Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s break down the ingredients to help you shop smarter and prep quicker:
Proteins
- Shrimp – Medium or large, peeled and deveined. Fresh or thawed frozen both work.
- Flank Steak – Thinly sliced against the grain for tenderness.
Noodles
- Lo Mein, Rice Noodles, or Spaghetti – Choose your favorite. Even linguine works.
Vegetables
- Bell Pepper – Red, orange, or yellow for sweetness and color.
- Carrots – Julienned or shredded for crunch.
- Snow Peas – Fresh and crisp.
- Green Onions – Stirred in at the end for brightness.
- Garlic & Ginger – Freshly minced for an aromatic base.
Sauces & Oils
- Teriyaki Sauce – Use bottled or homemade (recipe below).
- Soy Sauce – Low-sodium preferred.
- Sesame Oil – For a nutty finish.
- Vegetable Oil – High heat searing.
- Cornstarch Slurry – 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water to thicken sauce.
3. Choosing the Right Shrimp and Steak
The flavor and texture of your dish start with quality ingredients.
Shrimp Tips:
- Look for wild-caught if possible.
- Medium shrimp (41-50 count per pound) work well for bite-sized ease.
- Devein and pat dry before cooking for the best sear.
Steak Tips:
- Flank steak is ideal due to its bold beefy flavor and fast cook time.
- Slice thinly against the grain to avoid toughness.
- Marinate briefly if you have time—for extra flavor and tenderness.
4. Noodles That Soak Up Flavor
The noodles are more than just a base—they’re the vessel for all that saucy goodness.
- Lo Mein or Chow Mein Noodles – Traditional and ideal.
- Spaghetti or Linguine – Great pantry-friendly substitutes.
- Rice Noodles – Perfect for a gluten-free version.
- Udon – Thick and chewy for a hearty feel.
Pro Tip: Undercook noodles slightly—they’ll finish cooking in the sauce, soaking up every drop.
5. Homemade Teriyaki Sauce (Optional)
Bottled teriyaki works in a pinch, but making your own gives you control over flavor and sweetness.
Quick Teriyaki Sauce Recipe:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (for thickening)
Instructions: Simmer all ingredients (except cornstarch) over medium heat. Once warm, add cornstarch slurry and stir until thickened.
6. How to Make Shrimp Teriyaki Steak Noodles
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Boil noodles in salted water according to the package, until al dente. Drain and rinse slightly to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet or wok. Sear steak slices over high heat for 1–2 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp
Add 1 more tbsp oil. Cook shrimp until pink and opaque, about 2 minutes. Remove to prevent overcooking.
Step 4: Cook the Veggies
Sauté garlic and ginger in the same pan. Add carrots, snow peas, and bell pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes until just tender-crisp.
Step 5: Add Sauce
Stir in teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and cornstarch slurry. Let simmer until thickened.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return steak and shrimp to the pan. Toss in noodles and green onions. Stir to coat everything in sauce.
Step 7: Finish with Sesame Oil
Turn off the heat and drizzle in sesame oil. Serve hot with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chili flakes if desired.
7. Add a Cajun Twist – Flavor Boost Ideas
To give the dish a bold Cajun edge:
- Season shrimp with Cajun seasoning before cooking.
- Add a splash of hot sauce or cayenne to the teriyaki sauce.
- Toss in smoked paprika or blackened seasoning with the veggies.
8. Pro Cooking Tips
- Prep first. This dish moves fast—chop, measure, and mix before the pan hits the stove.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook proteins in batches for a better sear.
- Use high heat. For a proper stir-fry char.
- Finish with sesame oil, not earlier. Cooking it kills the flavor.
9. Make-Ahead Instructions
- Cook steak, shrimp, and noodles ahead. Store separately in the fridge.
- Chop veggies and store in an airtight container.
- Mix the sauce and refrigerate in a jar.
- When ready, stir-fry for 5–7 minutes—dinner in a flash!
10. Storage, Reheating & Leftover Tips
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Use a skillet with a splash of water or soy sauce. Microwave works too, but the texture is better on the stove.
- Avoid freezing: Shrimp and veggies lose texture.
11. Variations – Customize Your Way
- Low-Carb: Use zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
- Gluten-Free: Sub rice noodles and tamari for soy sauce.
- Vegetarian: Use tofu or mushrooms instead of meat.
- Extra Protein: Add scrambled egg or edamame.
- Kids’ Version: Skip spicy elements and cut ingredients smaller.
12. What to Serve with Shrimp Teriyaki Steak Noodles
- Cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Miso soup for a light starter
- Spring rolls or potstickers on the side
- Iced green tea or sparkling lemonade
13. Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~510 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
- Fat: 19g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Cholesterol: 110mg
14. FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken instead of steak?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work best for juiciness, but breasts work too.
Q: Is this dish spicy?
Not unless you make it so. Cajun spice or chili flakes are optional.
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes—thaw and pat dry before cooking for best results.
15. Final Thoughts: A Weeknight Hero You’ll Crave Again
Shrimp Teriyaki Steak Noodles isn’t just dinner—it’s an experience. Every bite is a fusion of textures, spices, and umami-rich sauce that satisfies on every level. Whether you’re looking for a new favorite or want to impress guests without breaking a sweat, this dish always delivers. Fast, flavorful, and foolproof, it’s the kind of meal you’ll return to week after week.
16. 📌 Printable Recipe Card
Let me know if you’d like me to format the recipe card in printable layout or include a custom image for Pinterest!
