If there’s one dish I turn to again and again for a lightning-fast, flavor-packed dinner, it’s Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce. Picture crisp, vibrant broccoli, plump juicy shrimp, all tossed together in an irresistibly savory garlic sauce that balances just the right kick of chili and the sweet depth of honey—pure takeout magic whipped up in your own kitchen in under 30 minutes! With each bite you’ll get crunch, a pop of ocean-fresh shrimp, and that glossy garlic sauce clinging to every morsel. This recipe is a real weeknight winner for anyone craving bold flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the short ingredient list fool you—every element here brings something special to the table. A handful of ingredients combine for the ultimate taste and beautiful color, making Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce a total showstopper.
- Shrimp (1 lb, peeled & deveined): Go for large shrimp for juicy, meaty bites that soak up all the garlicky goodness.
- Broccoli florets (3 cups): The star veggie, these bring crunch, color, and a fresh, slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with shrimp.
- Oil (1 tbsp, avocado or vegetable): Essential for sizzling the shrimp until beautifully opaque and lightly golden.
- Sesame oil (1 tsp): Just a splash adds nutty depth and that classic stir fry aroma.
- Garlic (3–4 cloves, minced): The flavor powerhouse—use fresh for the boldest taste!
- Ginger (1 tsp, grated): Optional but highly recommended for a punch of freshness and gentle heat.
- Chicken broth (1/4 cup): Keeps the sauce light, silky, and brings umami richness (veg broth for a veggie swap).
- Soy sauce or tamari (2 tbsp): For salty, savory backbone; tamari keeps it gluten-free if needed.
- Oyster sauce (1 tbsp): Adds sweet-salty complexity; sub with hoisin for a shellfish-free version.
- Honey or brown sugar (1 tbsp): Balances the salt and spice with just the right touch of sweetness.
- Rice vinegar (1 tsp): Perks up the entire dish with a pleasant tang that brightens the sauce.
- Chili flakes or chili garlic sauce (1/2 tsp): For gentle heat; adjust according to your spicy preference.
- Cornstarch + water slurry (1 tsp + 1 tbsp): Thickens the sauce to that glossy, restaurant-style finish.
How to Make Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce
Step 1: Blanch the Broccoli
Start by bringing a pot of water to a rapid boil. Drop in your broccoli florets and let them cook for just 1–2 minutes until they turn a bright, vibrant green. This quick blanching gives you perfectly crisp-tender broccoli, keeping its gorgeous color and a fresh bite. Drain well and set aside—you want broccoli that holds up in the stir fry, never mushy!
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
Heat your oil of choice (avocado or vegetable) in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Lightly salt your peeled and deveined shrimp, then spread them in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side. The shrimp should curl and become pink and opaque. Remove them from the pan once done, so they stay juicy and tender.
Step 3: Build Garlic Flavor
Reduce the heat just a touch. In the same pan, drizzle in the sesame oil followed by the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté everything together for about 30 seconds—the fragrance will instantly hit you! This is the flavor foundation of your Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Sauce
Pour in the chicken (or veggie) broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and chili flakes or chili garlic sauce. Stir well, then bring to a gentle simmer. Lastly, stir in your cornstarch slurry and watch as the sauce bubbles and thickens up gorgeously. After just 1–2 minutes, you’ll have a glossy, rich garlic sauce ready to coat every ingredient.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Add your blanched broccoli and cooked shrimp back to the pan. Toss gently but thoroughly, making sure every piece is kissed by that garlicky glaze. Cook everything together for just a minute until heated through, then serve your Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce piping hot!
How to Serve Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce
Garnishes
For that finishing touch, sprinkle a handful of sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top of your Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce. You might even add a quick drizzle of chili oil or a scatter of chopped fresh cilantro for a little extra flair. Not only does this make it look restaurant-ready, but it adds layers of flavor and a lovely crunch.
Side Dishes
The absolute classic pairing is steaming white or jasmine rice, perfect for soaking up all that luscious garlic sauce. If you’re craving something a bit different, try serving it over rice noodles or even simple stir-fried greens. For a heartier meal, add a side of veggie spring rolls or a crisp Asian slaw.
Creative Ways to Present
Bring a little showmanship to the table by serving the stir fry in a large, shallow bowl so everyone can scoop their own. For a weeknight power bowl, layer the Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce over brown rice or quinoa, garnished with avocado slices and pickled carrots. Got leftovers? Tuck them into lettuce wraps for a fun, hands-on dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool your Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce to room temperature and transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a perfect option for next-day lunches or speedy dinners.
Freezing
While shrimp can sometimes change texture when frozen, this dish does freeze reasonably well. Place cooled stir fry in a freezer-safe container and stash for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge; the broccoli may soften slightly, but the flavors will still delight.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works, too—just heat in short bursts and stir between so the shrimp stays tender, not rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and thoroughly pat them dry before cooking. Frozen shrimp are often flash-frozen at peak freshness, so they work great in this stir fry.
What can I use instead of oyster sauce?
If you can’t have shellfish or don’t have oyster sauce on hand, hoisin sauce is a tasty substitute. It adds a similar sweet-savory depth that works perfectly in the garlic sauce.
Is there a low-sodium option?
Yes! Use a reduced-sodium soy sauce or tamari, and opt for low-sodium chicken broth. Taste the sauce before adding extra salt—there’s plenty of flavor from the other ingredients.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Definitely swap the shrimp with firm tofu or even seitan for a vegetarian version. Just crisp up the tofu in the pan the same way you would the shrimp. Use veggie broth and hoisin instead of oyster sauce, and you’re all set!
What other vegetables go well in this stir fry?
Snap peas, bell peppers, mushrooms, or baby corn are all delicious in Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce. Feel free to toss in whatever is fresh and colorful in your fridge for extra texture and flavor!
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited to dig into this Shrimp & Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce as I am to share it! It’s fast, fuss-free, and bursting with flavor—perfect for any night of the week. Give it a try and make it your own; your taste buds (and dinner guests!) will thank you.