If you’re craving a vibrant dish that combines tender shrimp with crisp broccoli in a luscious, savory sauce, then this Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe is just what you need. It’s a perfect weeknight favorite that comes together quickly but tastes like something you’d order at a restaurant. The balance of flavors from garlic, ginger, and the subtly sweet and tangy sauce makes every bite comforting and satisfying, while the fresh ingredients ensure a healthy, colorful plate you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping it simple is key with this recipe. Each ingredient plays an essential role, whether it’s contributing to that satisfying crunch, bold umami flavor, or the glossy finish that makes this dish so scrumptious.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein that cooks quickly and stays tender.
- 3 cups broccoli florets: Adds a vibrant crunch and fresh green color to brighten the dish.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided: Essential for stir-frying without overpowering flavors.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant punch that’s impossible to skip.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated: Adds a warm, zesty note that complements the shrimp beautifully.
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce: Brings deep umami and saltiness without being too salty.
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce: Adds a rich, slightly sweet complexity to the stir-fry sauce.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the sauce for that silky coating on every bite.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Provides a gentle tang that lifts the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar: Balances savory elements with just a touch of sweetness.
- ¼ cup water: Helps to achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Finishes the dish with a nutty aroma that is classic in Asian cooking.
- Optional: sesame seeds or sliced green onions for garnish: Adds crunch and a pop of fresh green that make the dish pop visually and texturally.
How to Make Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce
Start by whisking together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, rice vinegar, honey, water, and sesame oil in a small bowl. This sauce will be the magic that ties together the shrimp and broccoli with a glossy sheen and perfectly balanced flavor. Setting it aside lets the cornstarch dissolve well.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry them for about 3 to 4 minutes until they turn bright green and become crisp-tender. The broccoli should still have some crunch so it adds texture and color contrast in this dish. Once ready, remove the broccoli and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to your pan and drop in the shrimp. Cook them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until they are pink, opaque, and just cooked through. Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking and turning rubbery.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
Now toss in the minced garlic and grated fresh ginger. Stir-fry these aromatic powerhouses for about 30 seconds—it will fill your kitchen with an irresistible scent and build the base of flavor for the sauce.
Step 5: Combine and Coat with Sauce
Return the broccoli to the pan with the shrimp and pour the prepared stir-fry sauce over everything. Toss well to coat the ingredients evenly. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes while stirring frequently, letting the sauce thicken and cling to the shrimp and broccoli beautifully. Once glossy and bubbling, your stir-fry is ready to hit the table.
How to Serve Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle the dish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for a simple yet stunning garnish. These touches add that final bit of crunch and fresh herbal zest, turning a straightforward stir-fry into something special.
Side Dishes
This stir-fry shines when paired with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy noodles to soak up every bit of the delicious sauce. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is a great alternative that keeps the meal light but satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to elevate your presentation, try serving the stir-fry in individual lettuce cups for a fun, handheld approach. Or, layer it over a bed of soba noodles with a drizzle of extra sesame oil and chopped peanuts for texture and nutty flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover stir-fry in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The shrimp and broccoli maintain their texture well when properly stored, making for a quick and delicious next-day lunch or dinner.
Freezing
While the stir-fry tastes best fresh, you can freeze it if needed. Separate it into meal-sized portions and freeze in airtight containers for up to 1 month. To preserve texture, it’s best to avoid freezing with rice or noodles.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough. Add a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed. Microwaving works too but can slightly alter texture, so stovetop reheating is preferred.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this dish?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water, which can affect the stir-fry’s texture and sauce consistency.
Is this recipe spicy?
This Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe is mild by default, but you can easily add spice by tossing in red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for a little kick.
Can I substitute the broccoli with other vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, snap peas, or baby corn make excellent substitutions or additions, offering different textures and vibrant colors to customize your stir-fry.
What can I use instead of oyster sauce?
If you prefer a vegetarian version, use mushroom sauce or a bit more soy sauce mixed with a touch of hoisin sauce. These alternatives maintain that sweet-savory depth.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
This recipe comes together quickly—about 10 minutes for prep and 10 minutes for cooking, making it perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor or freshness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a flavorful, quick, and nourishing meal, I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day and is guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish guarantees satisfaction every time!
Print
Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This vibrant Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a quick and healthy Asian-inspired dish featuring tender shrimp and crisp broccoli florets tossed in a flavorful sauce made from soy, oyster sauce, ginger, and garlic. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner served over steamed rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
Sauce
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- ¼ cup water
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Optional Garnish
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, rice vinegar, honey, water, and sesame oil until smooth. Set this mixture aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook broccoli: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes, until they become crisp-tender but still vibrant green. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set aside.
- Cook shrimp: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the pan. Place the shrimp in the hot pan in a single layer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque, ensuring they are cooked through but still tender.
- Add aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the shrimp in the pan. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Combine and finish: Return the cooked broccoli to the pan with the shrimp. Pour the prepared stir-fry sauce over the ingredients and toss to coat everything evenly. Continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the pan from heat. Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired. Serve the stir-fry hot alongside steamed rice or your choice of noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken or tofu for shrimp if preferred.
- Add bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and crunch.
- Make it spicier with a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
