Say hello to your next weeknight wonder: Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli. This vibrant dish combines crisp-tender broccoli and plump, juicy shrimp in a glossy, sweet-savory sauce, all pulled together in under 30 minutes. It’s a harmonious blend of flavors and textures — earthy broccoli, delicate seafood, zingy aromatics — that feels like a treat, yet falls squarely into the “healthy and hassle-free” dinner category. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping, or just spoiling yourself, Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli delivers huge flavor with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli is that you only need a handful of staple ingredients, each one playing a vital role. Every element brings something a little special, whether it’s crunch, umami depth, fresh aroma, or just that beautiful finishing color.
- Large shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): Tender, succulent shrimp are the star here, turning pink and juicy in just minutes.
- Broccoli florets (3 cups): Choose firm, dark green crowns for a satisfying, nutrient-packed crunch that soaks up all that delicious sauce.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons, divided): Use a neutral oil for stir-frying — it lets the flavors shine and gives the shrimp and broccoli a gorgeous sear.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced): The aromatic backbone of nearly every stir-fry, providing deep, mellow warmth to the dish.
- Fresh ginger (1 teaspoon, minced): Lively and bright, ginger elevates the sauce and cuts through richness with its fresh zing.
- Low-sodium soy sauce (1/4 cup): Classic salty-sweet flavor and the base of your stir-fry sauce — go low-sodium to keep things balanced.
- Oyster sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds rich savory depth and gentle sweetness, giving the stir-fry real takeaway-style character.
- Honey (1 tablespoon): Smooths out the savory notes with a hint of natural sweetness and encourages subtle caramelization.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): A quick thickener for that irresistibly glossy, clingy sauce.
- Water (1/4 cup): Loosens up the sauce to just the right consistency for glazing every bite.
- Sesame oil (1/2 teaspoon): Just a drizzle at the end adds nutty aroma and a touch of luxurious finish.
- Sliced green onions and sesame seeds (for garnish, optional): Add fresh color and subtle crunch — a pretty, polished touch for serving.
How to Make Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli
Step 1: Mix the Stir-Fry Sauce
Grab a small bowl and whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, cornstarch, water, and sesame oil. This mix is the heart of the Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli, transforming your skillet into flavor central. Make sure the cornstarch dissolves smoothly for a velvety, lump-free finish later on!
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
Heat up one tablespoon of oil in your largest skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes. You’re aiming for bright green florets still snappy in the center—the quick sear helps them hold their shape and vivid color. Once they’re just tender, slide them onto a plate.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Ginger
Now add the remaining oil to your pan. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds. You’ll know it’s time for the next step when your kitchen smells absolutely amazing. Don’t let the aromatics brown; just let them bloom with flavor.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp in a single layer, letting each piece sizzle in that fragrant oil. Cook them for 2–3 minutes per side. They’ll curl up and turn from translucent gray to glorious pink. Overcooking makes shrimp rubbery, so take them off as soon as they’re opaque and just firm.
Step 5: Combine Everything and Finish the Dish
Return the broccoli to the pan, then pour in your pre-mixed stir-fry sauce. Toss everything together and let it cook for another 1–2 minutes. You’ll see the sauce magically thicken and gloss over the shrimp and broccoli, clinging to every bite. Remove from the heat, sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds if you like, and prepare for the applause!
How to Serve Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli
Garnishes
A sprinkle of sliced green onions and a handful of sesame seeds not only make your Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli pop with color, but also add a final layer of fresh flavor and a hint of toasty crunch. Don’t skip these if you’re hoping to impress!
Side Dishes
This dish is fantastic over a bowl of fluffy steamed rice, but it also sits perfectly next to lo mein noodles or even cauliflower rice if you’re tracking carbs. A light cucumber salad or a bowl of miso soup can round out your meal for that true restaurant-style experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli in individual bowls with a wedge of lime, or pile it onto a large platter for family-style sharing at the table. For an extra flourish, drizzle with a little chili oil or scatter some fresh chili slices for guests who like a kick!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli can be tucked into an airtight container and stored in the fridge for up to two days. The flavors seem to mingle and deepen as it rests, making your lunch the next day almost as delicious as dinner.
Freezing
While shrimp can become a touch rubbery after freezing, this dish freezes reasonably well in a pinch. Cool completely, then pack portions into freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to eat, and enjoy within a month for the best taste and texture.
Reheating
For best results, gently reheat your leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed. Microwave reheating works too, but go low and slow to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp thoroughly and pat them dry before cooking. This helps prevent excess moisture in the pan so your shrimp get that irresistible sear.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap in your favorite gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and check that your oyster sauce is gluten-free as well. You’ll get all the classic flavors without the gluten.
Can I add other vegetables to the stir-fry?
Definitely! Sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots would be fabulous in your Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli. Just add them with the broccoli or stir them in at the end for extra color and crunch.
What if I want it spicier?
Go for it! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil to the sauce. You can also toss in some thinly sliced fresh chilies when you sauté the aromatics for a real flavor boost.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes — mix the sauce up to 2 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Give it a good stir before using, as the cornstarch may settle at the bottom.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a speedy, fresh, and flavorful dinner, give Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli a try. It’s fast, colorful, and bursting with taste — exactly the sort of recipe that turns an ordinary evening into something special. Give it a go, and let your kitchen be filled with those irresistible aromas!
Print
Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This quick and easy stir-fried shrimp and broccoli recipe is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender shrimp, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce come together in a delicious stir-fry that pairs well with rice or noodles.
Ingredients
For the Stir-fry Sauce:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
For the Stir-fry:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
- Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Stir-fry Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, cornstarch, water, and sesame oil. Set aside.
- Cook the Broccoli: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet, add broccoli, and cook until slightly tender. Transfer to a plate.
- Stir-fry the Shrimp: Add remaining oil to the skillet, sauté garlic and ginger, then add shrimp and cook until pink. Return broccoli to the skillet.
- Combine and Serve: Pour in the stir-fry sauce, toss to coat, and cook until thickened. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
- You can use frozen shrimp—just thaw and pat dry before cooking.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili oil to the sauce.
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