There’s something magical about the simplicity of stir-fry dishes. With just a handful of ingredients and a hot pan, you can create a satisfying meal that bursts with flavor and comes together in a flash. Stir-fried shrimp and broccoli is one of those go-to weeknight meals that never fails to impress. It’s healthy, protein-packed, and full of texture—tender shrimp paired with crisp-tender broccoli florets, all tossed in a savory garlic and soy sauce glaze.
Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner fix or a lighter meal that doesn’t compromise on taste, this dish delivers on every front. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve over rice, noodles, or even on its own for a low-carb option. If you love takeout-style meals but want more control over the ingredients, this homemade stir-fry will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Preparation Time:
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 10 minutes
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Total Time: 25 minutes
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Servings: 4
Ingredients:
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1 lb (450 g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
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3 cups broccoli florets
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
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1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
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2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional but adds depth)
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1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
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1 teaspoon sesame oil
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2 tablespoons water
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1 teaspoon cornstarch
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Optional: sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish
Preparation Steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, sesame oil, and water. Add the cornstarch and mix well until fully dissolved. Set the sauce aside—this will be your stir-fry glaze that brings everything together at the end.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
Bring a pot of water to a boil. Blanch the broccoli florets for 2 minutes until they’re bright green and slightly tender. Immediately drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps preserve their color and crispness.
Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer, season with a bit of salt and pepper, and cook for about 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry Everything
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil, followed by the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the blanched broccoli and cook for another 2–3 minutes, tossing frequently.
Return the cooked shrimp to the pan, pour in the sauce, and toss everything together. The sauce will thicken quickly as it cooks—keep stirring until everything is evenly coated and glossy, about 2 minutes.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the stir-fried shrimp and broccoli over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. For a heartier meal, you can add cooked noodles or serve it with a side of vegetable spring rolls.
Optional garnishes like sesame seeds and chopped green onions add a nice crunch and color contrast. A drizzle of sriracha or chili oil can also be added for a spicy kick if you like heat.
This stir-fried shrimp and broccoli recipe is proof that healthy cooking doesn’t have to be time-consuming or bland. With just 25 minutes and a few pantry staples, you can whip up a restaurant-quality dish that’s fresh, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.
Perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners, it’s a dish that feels special but is surprisingly easy to make. The balance of savory soy, fragrant garlic and ginger, and the natural sweetness of shrimp makes each bite irresistibly good. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens without sacrificing taste.
So the next time you’re craving something quick and delicious, give this stir-fry a try. It’s guaranteed to become a new favorite on your dinner rotation!