shrimp stir fry recipe
The Best shrimp stir fry recipe
What I really appreciate about this dish is how balanced it is. The shrimp is lean and high in protein, the veggies add fiber and vitamins, and the sauce ties it all together without being too heavy. It’s light but satisfying, and you can easily swap in whatever vegetables you have on hand. I’ve made it with bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli, and it’s always delicious. It’s also a great way to get my family to eat more veggies without any complaints. If you’re looking for a go-to recipe that’s healthy, fast, and family-approved, this is the one.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Stir Fry
A quick and flavorful shrimp stir fry with garlic, butter, and a hint of soy sauce. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner and pairs well with steamed rice or noodles.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 small carrot, julienned
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
In a large skillet or wok, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside. -
2
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. -
3
Add bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot to the skillet. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp. -
4
Return the shrimp to the skillet. Pour in soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), and lemon juice. Toss everything together and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce coats the shrimp and vegetables. -
5
Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
🔧Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Garlic Butter Shrimp Stir Fry Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Shrimp Stir Fry
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this stir fry recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps them sear better in the pan. Avoid overcooking, as frozen shrimp can become rubbery if cooked too long.
2. What’s the best way to prevent shrimp from becoming tough or overcooked?
Shrimp cook very quickly—usually in just 2-3 minutes per side. To avoid toughness, cook them over medium-high heat until they turn pink and opaque, then immediately remove them from the pan. Overcooking is the main reason shrimp become rubbery, so keep an eye on them.
3. Can I substitute other vegetables in this stir fry?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile—you can swap in bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli, or mushrooms based on your preference. Just ensure the vegetables are cut into even-sized pieces so they cook uniformly. Heartier veggies like carrots or broccoli may need a minute or two of pre-cooking before adding the shrimp.
4. What sauce works best for shrimp stir fry?
A simple combination of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of honey or brown sugar works well. For extra flavor, add a splash of sesame oil, rice vinegar, or chili paste. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it in at the end.
5. Can I make this stir fry ahead of time?
While shrimp stir fry is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep ingredients in advance. Chop vegetables and store them in the fridge, or marinate the shrimp for up to 30 minutes before cooking. However, cooked shrimp don’t reheat well, so it’s best to cook the dish just before serving. If needed, reheat gently in a pan over low heat.
