Looking for a dinner idea that’s not only quick to make but also incredibly satisfying and healthy? You’re in the right place; this shrimp and broccoli stir fry recipe is a total weeknight hero. Whether you're trying to eat cleaner, avoid takeout, or just need a fast and flavorful solution after a long day, this dish checks every box. It's a personal favorite in my kitchen—one of those go-to meals that never disappoints.
This isn’t just any stir fry; it’s a well-balanced, wholesome meal made with juicy, tender shrimp and perfectly crisp broccoli, all tossed in a rich, savory garlic sauce that clings to every bite. And the best part? This shrimp and broccoli stir fry recipe takes just about 15 minutes from pan to plate, making it an ideal choice when time is tight but your taste buds are craving something bold.
I’ve tested and refined this shrimp and broccoli stir fry recipe to make sure it’s not just easy but also packed with flavor. No bland or watery sauce here—just a beautiful blend of garlic, soy, and sesame that delivers restaurant-quality taste at home. It's proof that healthy meals don’t have to be boring or complicated.
So if you're on the hunt for a dependable, delicious meal that fits your busy lifestyle, give this shrimp and broccoli stir fry recipe a try; it's fast, it's nourishing, and it might just become your new favorite go-to dinner.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons why this shrimp and broccoli stir fry recipe deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. For starters, stir fry dishes have been a beloved part of Asian cuisine for centuries; they’re quick to prepare, require minimal cleanup, and offer a balanced combination of protein and vegetables in every bite. This particular shrimp and broccoli stir fry recipe has quickly become a favorite among home cooks because it strikes the perfect balance between flavor, simplicity, and nutrition.
What sets this shrimp and broccoli stir fry recipe apart is how the delicate sweetness of the shrimp complements the vibrant, earthy crunch of fresh broccoli. The two main ingredients don’t just work well together—they shine, thanks to a beautifully simple garlic-soy sauce that enhances their natural flavors without overpowering them. It’s the kind of sauce that ties everything together seamlessly, turning a few everyday ingredients into something truly special.
Another reason to love this shrimp and broccoli stir fry recipe is its incredible versatility. Serve it over a steaming bowl of jasmine rice for a comforting classic, toss it with noodles for a heartier dish, or keep things light and low-carb with a base of cauliflower rice. No matter how you serve it, this stir fry adapts to your dietary preferences and still delivers on flavor and satisfaction.
Whether you're cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just looking for a fast, reliable, and delicious dinner idea, this shrimp and broccoli stir fry recipe will not disappoint. It’s quick, wholesome, and full of bold, fresh flavors that keep you coming back for more.
Jump to:
Ingredients
For this shrimp and broccoli stir fry:
- Raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Fresh broccoli florets
- Cooking oil (avocado or vegetable oil work best)
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh ginger, grated
- Green onions, sliced (white and green parts separated)
For the sauce:
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Soy sauce (low-sodium works great)
- Oyster sauce
- Sesame oil
- Cornstarch
- Water or chicken broth
- Honey or brown sugar
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Prep Your Ingredients
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better.
- Cut broccoli into even-sized florets (about 1-1.5 inches) so they cook evenly.
- Mince garlic, grate ginger, and slice green onions.
- Make the sauce by whisking together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, water/broth, and honey in a small bowl until smooth.
- Having everything prepped before you start cooking is crucial for stir fry success. Once you start cooking, this dish moves fast!
Cook the Shrimp
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat until it's just smoking.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through.
- Remove shrimp to a plate and set aside.
- Remember not to overcrowd the pan - this ensures the shrimp sear rather than steam.
Stir Fry the Broccoli
- Add another tablespoon of oil to the same pan.
- Add white parts of green onions, garlic, and ginger. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add broccoli and stir fry for 3-4 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender.
- If the pan seems dry, add 2 tablespoons of water and cover for 1 minute to steam the broccoli slightly.
Combine and Finish
- Turn off the heat and sprinkle with the green parts of the green onions.
- Return the shrimp to the pan with the broccoli.
- Give your sauce mixture a quick stir (the cornstarch may have settled), then pour it into the pan.
- Stir everything together for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything nicely.
- Step 1: Shrimp is dried, broccoli chopped, and sauce whisked.
- Step 2: Shrimp is seared until just pink and removed from the pan.
- Step 3: Broccoli and aromatics are stir-fried until crisp-tender.
- Step 4: Sauce is poured in; everything is mixed and thickened.
Expert Cooking Tips
- Don't overcook the shrimp - they'll continue cooking slightly after being removed from the heat. When they form a "C" shape, they're perfectly cooked. If they curl into an "O" shape, they're overcooked.
- For extra crisp broccoli, blanch it in boiling water for 1 minute then shock in ice water before stir frying.
- Use a wok if you have one - the high sides and even heating make it ideal for stir frying. If not, a large skillet works fine too.
- Keep everything moving in the pan to prevent burning. A wooden spatula or wok spatula is perfect for this job.
- Cook on high heat throughout the process - this gives you that authentic stir fry taste and texture.
Recipe Variations
Make It Your Own
- Protein swaps: Try chicken, beef, or tofu instead of shrimp.
- Veggie variations: Add bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms.
- Sauce adjustments: For a spicier version, add more red pepper flakes or a squirt of sriracha.
Dietary Modifications
- Gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and check that your oyster sauce is gluten-free.
- Keto-friendly: Skip the honey/sugar in the sauce and serve over cauliflower rice.
- Paleo: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch.
Equipment Recommendations
- A good wok: If you make stir fries often, a carbon steel wok is worth the investment. It heats evenly and gives you plenty of space to toss ingredients.
- Alternative: A large, heavy-bottomed skillet (12-inch or larger) works well too.
- Wooden spatula or wok spatula: These won't scratch your cooking surface and make it easy to keep food moving.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- This shrimp and broccoli stir fry recipe is perfect for meal prep!
Fridge Storage
- Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop nicely overnight.
Freezing Instructions
- While you can freeze this dish, the texture of the broccoli will change upon thawing. If you want to freeze it, slightly undercook the broccoli so it doesn't become mushy when reheated.
Reheating
- Microwave for 1-2 minutes or reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to refresh the sauce.nths.
The Weeknight Secret That Changed Everything
There was a time when weeknights felt overwhelming—long days, endless to-do lists, and that nagging question: What’s for dinner? Like many of us, I used to rely on quick takeout fixes or repetitive meals that didn’t excite anyone at the table. Then, one night, while rummaging through the fridge with barely 30 minutes to spare, I stumbled on two ingredients that would change everything: a bag of shrimp and a head of fresh broccoli. That was the moment the first version of my now-favorite shrimp and broccoli stir fry recipe came to life.
With a bit of garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil, I threw everything into a pan and hoped for the best. To my surprise, the result was better than any takeout I'd had in months. The shrimp were perfectly tender; the broccoli still had that satisfying crunch; and the sauce brought everything together with just the right balance of salty and savory. That night, this humble shrimp and broccoli stir fry recipe became more than just dinner—it became my go-to solution for busy nights.
Over time, I fine-tuned the technique, simplified the steps, and found new ways to keep it fresh—sometimes serving it over jasmine rice, other times tossing it with noodles or spooning it onto cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist. No matter how I served it, this shrimp and broccoli stir fry recipe always delivered: fast, flavorful, and nourishing.
Now, whenever friends or family ask for an easy meal that feels like a treat, I share this shrimp and broccoli stir fry recipe. It’s more than just a quick dish; it’s the secret that rescued my evenings, made me fall in love with cooking again, and turned ordinary ingredients into something unforgettable.
FAQ
What sauce is used in shrimp and broccoli?
A classic shrimp and broccoli stir fry recipe uses a savory sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Some versions also include oyster sauce, cornstarch for thickness, and a touch of honey or brown sugar for balance.
What are the 3 rules of stir-frying?
Prep all ingredients before cooking.
Use high heat with a hot wok or pan.
Cook ingredients quickly in batches to avoid overcrowding and steaming.
Should broccoli be steamed before stir fry?
No steaming is necessary; fresh broccoli cooks quickly in a hot pan. If you prefer softer broccoli, a quick 1–2 minute blanching beforehand can help it stay vibrant and tender.
Should you marinate shrimp before stir-frying?
Marinating shrimp isn’t required but can enhance flavor. A quick 10–15 minute marinade in soy sauce, garlic, and a bit of sesame oil adds extra depth without overcomplicating the process.
A Quick Favorite You'll Keep Coming Back To
When it comes to fast, flavorful, and wholesome dinners, this shrimp and broccoli stir fry recipe truly delivers. It's proof that a healthy, satisfying meal doesn’t need to be time-consuming or complicated. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a dish that feels like it came straight from your favorite restaurant—but made with fresh, simple ingredients right in your own kitchen. Packed with juicy shrimp, crisp broccoli, and a savory garlic-soy sauce, this shrimp and broccoli stir fry recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something reliable, nutritious, and downright delicious.
It’s one of those recipes that just works, and I promise—you’ll find yourself making this shrimp and broccoli stir fry recipe again and again. And if you're in the mood to explore more bold and comforting flavors, I’ve got you covered! Try my rich and flavorful Chicken Curry Recipe for a spiced and hearty option, or keep things fun and easy with this crowd-pleasing Best Naan Pizza Recipe that's always a hit on movie nights.
So go ahead, give this shrimp and broccoli stir fry recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out for you. I’d love to hear your thoughts, tips, or even your own tasty twists in the comments below. After all, the best recipes are the ones we make our own—and this one’s ready for your personal touch.
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Wok or large skillet Ideal for high-heat cooking; a 12-inch non-stick skillet works too
- 1 Wooden spatula Helps toss ingredients without scratching your pan
- 2–3 Mixing bowls For prepping shrimp, broccoli, and mixing the sauce
- 1 Measuring spoons For accurate sauce ingredient measurements
- 1 Garlic press or grater For mincing garlic and grating fresh ginger
Ingredients
- 1 lb Raw shrimp Peeled and deveined
- 4 cups Broccoli florets About 2 medium heads, cut into small florets
- 3 tablespoon Cooking oil Avocado or vegetable oil
- 4 cloves Garlic Minced
- 1 tablespoon Ginger Fresh grated
- 2 Green onions Sliced; whites and greens separated
- 3 tablespoon Soy sauce Low-sodium preferred
- 1 tablespoon Oyster sauce Adds rich umami flavor
- 1 teaspoon Sesame oil For added aroma
- 1 tablespoon Cornstarch Helps thicken the sauce
- ¼ cup Water or broth For mixing the sauce
- 1 teaspoon Honey or brown sugar Optional, adds a touch of sweetness
- ½ teaspoon Red pepper flakes Optional, for heat
Instructions
- Prep all your ingredients.
- Sear shrimp in hot oil until just cooked through, then remove from wok.
- Stir fry garlic, ginger, and white parts of green onions. Add broccoli and stir fry until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Return shrimp to the pan. Add mixed sauce ingredients. Toss to coat and cook for another 1–2 minutes until thickened. Garnish with green onion tops.
Notes
- Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Tina says
The shrimp broccoli recipe was very tasty. My husband said it taste as though I had ordered it from a restaurant.
Cook savor says
That’s wonderful to hear, Tina! I'm so glad the dish impressed both of you and that it hit restaurant-level flavor in your own kitchen!