Shrimp and Broccoli
This quick Shrimp and Broccoli stir fry comes together in under 30 minutes with juicy shrimp, crisp-tender broccoli, and a glossy garlic sauce that beats takeout every time.
A Weeknight Classic That Beats Takeout
There is a reason shrimp and broccoli shows up on nearly every Chinese takeout menu in America. It is fast, it is satisfying, and that glossy garlic sauce clinging to tender broccoli and juicy shrimp is almost impossible to resist. This homemade version of shrimp and broccoli dinner comes together in under 30 minutes, uses ingredients you probably already have, and tastes even better than the container it usually comes in.
Whether you are searching for easy shrimp recipes with broccoli or just want a reliable weeknight dinner that does not skimp on flavor, this one delivers every time.
Before we get cooking, the right tools and a few pantry staples make a real difference here. A well seasoned wok or a wide, heavy skillet helps the shrimp sear instead of steam, and good quality oyster sauce is what gives this dish its deep, savory backbone.
Why This Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe Works
The secret to restaurant style shrimp broccoli recipes is all about technique, not fancy ingredients. Here is what makes this version stand out:
- Blanching the broccoli first keeps it bright green and crisp tender instead of mushy.
- Searing the shrimp separately locks in that golden crust and prevents overcooking.
- A cornstarch slurry gives the sauce that glossy, clingy texture you get from your favorite takeout spot.
Chef's Tip: Always dry your shrimp thoroughly before searing. Excess moisture is the number one reason shrimp steams instead of getting that beautiful golden edge.
The Sauce Is Everything
What separates a good Asian shrimp and broccoli dish from a great one is almost always the sauce. This version leans on the classic combo of soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, and ginger, simmered just long enough to thicken and coat every piece of broccoli and shrimp. It is savory, slightly sweet, and deeply aromatic without being overly heavy.
If you love shrimp with broccoli but want to switch things up, this sauce base is flexible enough to take on other proteins or vegetables too, so keep the ratio in mind for future stir fries.
Ready to make it? Here is the full step-by-step recipe:
Shrimp and Broccoli
This quick Shrimp and Broccoli stir fry comes together in under 30 minutes with juicy shrimp, crisp-tender broccoli, and a glossy garlic sauce that beats takeout every time.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 3 tbsp soy sauce, low sodium preferred
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth, or water
- 1 tbsp cornstarch, mixed with 2 tbsp water to make a slurry
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided, for high-heat cooking
- 1 tsp sesame oil, toasted, for finishing
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, optional, for heat
- 1 tsp sesame seeds, for garnish
Instruction
Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the broccoli florets for 90 seconds, then drain and set aside.
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, chicken broth, and cornstarch slurry to make the sauce.
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat until shimmering.
Add the shrimp in a single layer and sear for 1 to 2 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through, then remove to a plate.
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan, then add the garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the blanched broccoli to the pan and stir fry for 2 minutes.
Pour in the sauce mixture and cook, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the broccoli, about 1 to 2 minutes.
Return the shrimp to the pan and toss everything together until well coated and heated through.
Drizzle with sesame oil, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and serve immediately over rice.
Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Pot for blanching
- Tongs
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This dish is best served hot, straight from the pan, spooned over steamed jasmine rice or fluffy white rice to soak up every bit of that sauce. For a lower carb option, try it over cauliflower rice or alongside a simple cucumber salad.
A few ways to round out the meal:
- Steamed dumplings or spring rolls as a starter
- A side of garlic green beans for extra veggies
- A sprinkle of extra sesame seeds and sliced scallions for freshness
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers of this shrimp and broccoli dinner keep beautifully in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container. When reheating, a hot skillet on the stovetop works best to preserve the shrimp's texture. The microwave is fine in a pinch, just cover the dish loosely so the shrimp do not turn rubbery.
Chef's Tip: This recipe does not freeze particularly well because the broccoli tends to get watery once thawed, so it is best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.
However you serve it, this broccoli shrimp stir fry is proof that a fast, flavorful dinner does not require a takeout menu, just a hot pan and a few pantry staples.
