If you’re on the hunt for a weeknight dinner that’s guaranteed to dazzle everyone at the table, Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry more than delivers. This vibrant dish is a perfect balance of succulent shrimp, crisp-tender broccoli, and a boldly savory sauce that clings to every bite. It comes together lightning fast, offers a beautiful splash of color, and is as wholesome as it is delicious. Whether you’re a stir-fry pro or just dipping your toes into speedy Asian-inspired cooking, this recipe promises flavor-packed satisfaction with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry serves a purpose—from building depth to providing irresistible crunch. Here’s what you need, plus some clever tips to make each element shine in your skillet:
- Large Shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): Opt for fresh or thawed frozen shrimp for juicy, sweet flavor that cooks up beautifully.
- Broccoli Florets (4 cups): Broccoli brings color, texture, and a hint of earthiness; cut the florets into even pieces for uniform cooking.
- Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons): A neutral, high-heat oil keeps everything sizzling perfectly without masking flavors.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Garlic adds that crave-worthy aroma and a punch of flavor right at the start.
- Fresh Ginger (1 tablespoon, grated): Don’t skip the ginger; it adds zingy brightness and depth to the stir-fry.
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce (1/4 cup): This forms the backbone of your savory sauce while keeping sodium in check.
- Oyster Sauce (2 tablespoons): Oyster sauce gives the dish luscious umami with a touch of sweetness.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): A little goes a long way for thickening the sauce and providing that glossy, takeout-style finish.
- Chicken Broth or Water (1/2 cup): Broth boosts the savory note, but water keeps it lighter; your choice!
- Sesame Oil (1 tablespoon): Just a drizzle at the end infuses the classic toasty, nutty aroma.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For anyone who likes to kick up the heat, red pepper flakes are your friend.
- Cooked White or Brown Rice, for serving: Soft, fluffy rice soaks up that glorious sauce and rounds out the meal.
How to Make Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Step 1: Whisk Up the Sauce
Start by combining the low-sodium soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, chicken broth (or water), and sesame oil in a small bowl. Stir vigorously until the cornstarch dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth. This quick sauce is the secret to turning your Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry into a luscious, restaurant-worthy meal with minimal effort!
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high. As soon as the oil begins to shimmer, add your shrimp. Stir-fry for just 2–3 minutes, flipping them to ensure even cooking. When the shrimp turn pink and opaque, immediately remove them from the pan so they don’t overcook. Set them aside—don’t worry, they’ll come back in later.
Step 3: Fragrant Base and Broccoli
Pour in the remaining tablespoon of oil, then toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir for about 30 seconds, just until their wonderful aromas fill your kitchen. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes, keeping things moving so the broccoli softens but retains its bright color and satisfying crunch.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Time for the grand reunion—return the cooked shrimp to the pan with the broccoli. Pour in your prepared sauce, making sure to scrape every drop from the bowl for max flavor. Stir well to ensure shrimp and broccoli are glossy and coated in sauce. Continue to cook for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is piping hot. Your Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry is ready to triumph!
Step 5: Serve It Up
Spoon the Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry over bowls of steaming rice—white or brown, your choice—and enjoy that irresistible sauteed aroma rising up. Dig in while it’s fresh!
How to Serve Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Garnishes
The right garnishes can transform your Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry from delicious to downright stunning. Sprinkle on toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch, a scattering of sliced scallions for color, or a fresh squeeze of lime if you enjoy a citrusy tang. For heat lovers, a light dusting of extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil never hurts!
Side Dishes
This stir-fry shines alongside a bowl of fluffy steamed white rice, nutty brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option. If you’re in the mood for more, a simple cucumber salad or lightly dressed Asian slaw makes a fantastic, refreshing contrast. For a full spread, add potstickers or steamed dumplings to the table.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry up a notch by serving it in a wide family-style platter with chopsticks ready for sharing. You can also pack leftovers into lettuce cups for a crisp, handheld option, or roll the stir-fry with rice into nori sheets for a playful sushi-inspired lunch. The colorful combo of shrimp and broccoli always steals the show!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry can be placed in an airtight container and stashed in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making a very happy next-day lunch—just remember, the broccoli may soften a bit, but it’ll still be delicious.
Freezing
If you want to extend the life of your stir-fry, let it cool to room temperature first, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep nicely for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best texture and taste.
Reheating
For best results, reheat your Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. The microwave also works in a pinch—cover and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until everything is hot and steamy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking so they sear properly and don’t water down the dish.
What other vegetables pair well with this stir-fry?
Aside from broccoli, you can toss in snap peas, bell peppers, snow peas, or even thinly sliced carrots if you want a rainbow of colors and textures in your Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry.
How spicy is this recipe?
As written, the spice level is quite mild with just a touch of crushed red pepper flakes. If you want more heat, feel free to double the amount or add a dash of sriracha or chili oil to the sauce.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Easily—simply use a certified gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari) and choose a gluten-free oyster sauce. Check your other sauce ingredients for hidden gluten if allergies are a concern.
What’s the best type Main Course
A large, heavy-bottomed skillet or a traditional wok delivers the best results for Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry, as both encourage quick, even cooking and that signature stir-fry sear.
Final Thoughts
There are few joys simpler than sharing a homemade dish that’s simultaneously quick, healthy, and absolutely packed with flavor. I hope this Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry becomes a treasured favorite in your kitchen, too—don’t hesitate to make it your own, and savor every delicious bite with those you love!
Print
Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful Asian-inspired dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender shrimp and crisp broccoli are stir-fried in a savory sauce, served over steamed rice.
Ingredients
Shrimp Stir-Fry:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
Sauce:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Additional:
- Cooked white or brown rice, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, chicken broth, and sesame oil. Set aside.
- Stir-Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or wok. Cook shrimp until pink; remove from pan. Cook garlic and ginger, then add broccoli and stir-fry. Return shrimp to the pan, pour in the sauce, and cook until thickened.
- Serve: Serve the stir-fry immediately over cooked rice.
Notes
- You can substitute the broccoli with snap peas or bell peppers.
- For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes or add sriracha to the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
