Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe: A Quick, Healthy, and Flavor-Packed Dinner Solution

Looking for a lightning-fast, nutritious, and restaurant-quality dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes? Say hello to your new go-to weeknight hero: Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli. This dish is a powerhouse of flavor, texture, and color, combining succulent shrimp with vibrant broccoli, all tossed in a savory, umami-rich sauce that rivals any takeout menu.

Perfect for busy professionals, health-conscious eaters, and home cooks who love bold flavors without the fuss, this recipe delivers on every front. It’s light yet filling, loaded with protein, and offers a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet—all while satisfying those takeout cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons this shrimp and broccoli stir-fry deserves a permanent spot on your dinner rotation:

• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes

• Low-carb and high-protein – Great for keto and lean eating

• One-pan magic – Minimal dishes and cleanup

• Customizable – Use what you have and make it your own

• Delicious leftovers – Tastes just as amazing the next day

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, meal prepping for the week, or serving dinner to a hungry family, this dish has universal appeal.

Ingredients for Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli

You’ll find most of these ingredients in a well-stocked pantry or local grocery store:

• 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 2 cups broccoli florets

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced (optional but recommended)

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or hoisin for a vegetarian twist)

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tbsp water (to thicken the sauce)

• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/4 cup water or chicken broth

• Cooked white rice, for serving (optional)

This ingredient list brings together the perfect blend of aromatics, sauces, and textures to create a balanced and satisfying dish.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

No fancy tools required—just the basics:

• Wok or large skillet

• Mixing bowl

• Tongs or spatula

• Measuring spoons

• Knife and cutting board

• Small bowl for sauce

• Rice cooker or pot (if serving with rice)

The simplicity of this setup means you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your food.

How to Make Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them under cold water and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture. Trim your broccoli into bite-sized florets and rinse thoroughly.

Step 2: Optional Blanching for Broccoli

For a vibrant green hue and tender-crisp texture, blanch your broccoli in boiling water for 1–2 minutes. Drain and set aside. This step is optional but elevates the final dish’s appearance and texture.

Step 3: Make the Stir-Fry Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp oyster or hoisin sauce

• Cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water)

• ½ tsp sesame oil

• A splash of water or chicken broth

This flavorful sauce will coat every bite with umami richness and a silky texture.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in your wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and stir-fry until pink and opaque, about 2–3 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Aromatics and Broccoli

In the same pan, add the remaining oil. Toss in the garlic and ginger, sautéing briefly until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Add the broccoli and cook for 1–2 more minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Return the shrimp to the pan and pour in your prepared sauce. Toss everything together to ensure even coating. Let the mixture simmer for another 1–2 minutes, until the sauce thickens and clings to the shrimp and broccoli.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot over a bed of steamed white rice, jasmine rice, or noodles. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.

Chef’s Tips for Perfect Stir-Fry

• Dry your shrimp well to avoid a watery stir-fry.

• Use medium or large shrimp for the best texture and bite.

• For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp in a bit of soy sauce and garlic 10 minutes before cooking.

• High heat is key—don’t overcrowd the pan, or the ingredients will steam instead of sear.

• Add a dash of chili flakes or sriracha if you love a spicy kick.

Substitutions and Variations

Sauce Swaps

• Hoisin Sauce: For a sweeter, vegetarian-friendly version.

• Tamari: For gluten-free diets.

• Fish Sauce: For more umami depth (just a few drops!).

Veggie Add-Ins

• Bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or baby corn all pair beautifully.

• Toss in mushrooms or bok choy for even more variety.

Protein Alternatives

• Chicken breast or tofu makes a great swap for shrimp.

• Try beef strips or tempeh for a heartier spin.

How to Store Leftovers

This recipe stores beautifully and reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep.

Refrigerator

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

Freezer

• Freeze in single-serving portions for up to 2 months.

• Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.

What to Serve with Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

While this dish stands on its own, here are some tasty pairings:

• Steamed jasmine or basmati rice

• Garlic noodles or lo mein

• Egg drop soup or miso soup for a light starter

• Spring rolls for a crunchy side

• A light lager, crisp white wine, or green tea to sip alongside

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the shrimp, broccoli, and sauce in advance. Stir-fry everything fresh for the best results.

What’s the best way to keep shrimp juicy?

Don’t overcook. Shrimp only need 2–3 minutes to become opaque and tender.

Can I make this recipe keto-friendly?

Absolutely. Skip the cornstarch or use xanthan gum instead. Serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal.

Is blanching the broccoli necessary?

Not at all—it’s optional. It just helps achieve that restaurant-style color and tenderness.

What kind of pan is best for stir-fry?

A carbon steel wok is traditional, but any large non-stick skillet works well.

Final Thoughts

This Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli recipe brings the flavor, nutrition, and ease we all crave in a weeknight dinner. It’s a fantastic alternative to greasy takeout, loaded with protein and fresh veggies, and endlessly adaptable to your taste.

It’s everything we love about classic stir-fry—fast, flavorful, and family-approved. Plus, it’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but couldn’t be simpler to make.