Name: Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: For the stir fry:; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 cups broccoli florets; 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided); 3 garlic cloves, minced; ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); For the garlic sauce:; ¼ cup soy sauce; 2 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey; 1 tsp cornstarch; ⅓ cup water or chicken broth; 1 tsp sesame oil

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This Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce is one of my favorite quick meals. Juicy shrimp and crisp-tender broccoli are tossed in a bold, garlicky sauce that’s better than takeout—and I can have it on the table in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how fast and flavorful this dish is. It’s perfect for weeknights when I want something satisfying without spending a lot of time. The garlic sauce coats every bite in rich, savory flavor, and the shrimp and broccoli stay perfectly cooked and fresh-tasting. It’s healthy, simple, and endlessly customizable

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Broccoli florets
Garlic (minced)
Soy sauce
Oyster sauce
Brown sugar or honey
Cornstarch
Water or chicken broth
Sesame oil
Vegetable oil
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

I start by whisking together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, water, and sesame oil to make the garlic sauce.
I heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
I sauté the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through, then remove them from the pan.
I add a little more oil and stir-fry the broccoli for 3–4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
I add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
I return the shrimp to the pan and pour in the sauce, stirring to coat everything evenly.
I let it simmer for a couple of minutes until the sauce thickens, then serve hot over rice or noodles.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I add sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms for more veggies. I’ve also used chicken or tofu instead of shrimp with great results. For a spicy kick, I toss in a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. The microwave works too, but I prefer the skillet to keep the texture of the shrimp and broccoli just right.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, I use frozen shrimp all the time—just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

Is oyster sauce necessary?

It adds depth, but if I don’t have it, I double the soy sauce and add a bit more sugar or a splash of hoisin sauce.

How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?

I cook them just until they turn pink and opaque, then remove them from the pan while I finish the rest to avoid rubbery shrimp.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, I use gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari) and check that the oyster sauce is also gluten-free.

What’s the best rice to serve with it?

I love jasmine rice or brown rice. It also pairs well with lo mein noodles or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Conclusion

Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce is one of my go-to meals when I need something quick, healthy, and full of flavor. It’s simple to make but never boring, and the garlicky sauce makes every bite taste like comfort food with a fresh twist.