If you’re dreaming of a cozy night in with an aromatic bowl of shrimp fried rice that’s better than what you can get from your favorite takeout, you’re in the right place! This Easy Better-Than-Takeout Shrimp Fried Rice recipe is not only quick to whip up, but it’s also packed with flavor, colorful veggies, and succulent shrimp. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds.

Imagine fluffy rice, perfectly cooked shrimp, and vibrant peas and carrots all coming together in a savory, soy-infused harmony. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to master. Let’s dive into why this recipe is reliable, what ingredients you’ll need, and how to make your own delicious batch of shrimp fried rice at home.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This Easy Better-Than-Takeout Shrimp Fried Rice recipe is a failsafe way to bring restaurant-quality flavors right into your kitchen. With straightforward steps and readily available ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that rivals your favorite Chinese takeout. Plus, it’s easily customizable; if you have leftover veggies or proteins, feel free to toss them in! This dish is versatile and forgiving, making it an ideal choice for cooks of all levels.

Ingredient Notes

To make the best shrimp fried rice, here’s what you’ll need:

2 tablespoons sesame oil: Adds a nutty flavor and enhances aroma.
2 tablespoons canola or vegetable oil: For sautéing the shrimp and veggies.
1 pound medium-large fresh shrimp: Cleaned and deveined, approximately 15-20 count.
1 cup frozen peas and diced carrots blend: No thawing needed; just toss them in straight from the freezer.
1 cup corn: I use frozen corn for convenience.
2 to 3 garlic cloves: Finely minced or pressed for maximum flavor.
1 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds warmth and depth to the dish.
3 large eggs: Lightly beaten to create a fluffy texture.
4 cups cooked rice: Use white long-grain rice or brown rice; for convenience, you can use two 8.8-ounce pouches of cooked rice.
2 to 3 green onions: Trimmed and sliced into thin rounds for garnish.
3 to 4 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce: Adjust to taste for seasoning.
1 teaspoon salt: Or to taste, depending on preference.
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Or to taste.

Equipment Breakdown

You don’t need any fancy tools to make this dish. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need:

Wok or large skillet: Essential for stir-frying the ingredients.
Spatula or wooden spoon: For stirring and mixing everything together.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure you get the right amounts of each ingredient.
Cutting board and knife: For chopping garlic and green onions.

The Method for Easy Better-Than-Takeout Shrimp Fried Rice

Now, let’s get cooking with these step-by-step instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. If you’re using leftover rice, make sure it’s cold as day-old rice works best for fried rice recipes.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

In a wok or large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and 1 tablespoon of canola oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the medium-large shrimp. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

In the same pan, add another tablespoon of sesame oil. Add the frozen peas and carrots blend, corn, minced garlic, and ground ginger. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are heated through.

Step 4: Scramble the Eggs

Push the veggies to one side of the pan, and pour the lightly beaten eggs into the other side. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked, then mix them with the veggies.

Step 5: Add the Rice

Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 6: Season the Rice

Drizzle in the low-sodium soy sauce, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the sauce.

Step 7: Incorporate the Shrimp

Finally, add the cooked shrimp back into the pan, along with the sliced green onions. Toss everything together until heated through, and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Easy Better-Than-Takeout Shrimp Fried Rice hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired. Enjoy the delicious flavors you’ve created!

No-Store Runs Needed

One of the best parts about this recipe is that it can often be made with items you already have on hand. Here are some pantry staples and frozen items that can be used:

Frozen peas and carrots
Frozen corn
Cooked rice (or instant rice)
Soy sauce
Eggs
Garlic and ginger (fresh or powdered)

This means less time spent running to the store and more time enjoying your meal!

Troubles You Can Avoid

Making fried rice can sometimes feel daunting, but here are a few tips to help you avoid common pitfalls:

Using cold, day-old rice helps prevent mushiness.
Ensure your pan is hot enough before adding the ingredients to fry them quickly.
Don’t overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook in batches.
Feel free to adjust the soy sauce to your taste; start with less and add more as needed.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because it’s so delicious), shrimp fried rice can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer:

To freeze:
1. Allow the fried rice to cool completely.
2. Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
3. Label with the date and store for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and microwave or sauté on the stove until heated through.

Questions People Ask

Can I use cooked shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! If you have pre-cooked shrimp, simply add them towards the end of the cooking process to heat through without overcooking.

What type of rice works best?

While long-grain white rice is traditional, you can also use brown rice or even jasmine rice. Just make sure it’s cooked and cooled before using it in this recipe.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, so feel free to add bell peppers, broccoli, or any other veggies you enjoy.

What can I substitute for soy sauce?

If you’re looking for a soy sauce alternative, you can try tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.

One Pan, More Ideas

If you love this Easy Better-Than-Takeout Shrimp Fried Rice, you might also enjoy these recipes:

Shrimp Fried Rice – Explore more variations!
Cilantro Lime Rice – A zesty side that pairs wonderfully with any meal.

Bring It Home

Now that you have this quick and easy recipe for Easy Better-Than-Takeout Shrimp Fried Rice, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start cooking! This dish is sure to become a staple in your home, offering a delicious and satisfying meal that’s ready in no time. Whether you serve it as a main dish or as a side, it’s a meal that will have everyone coming back for more. Enjoy your culinary adventure!