Bright, bold, and full of snap, Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry is the kind of quick dinner that tastes like you spent hours cooking but comes together in a flash. Vibrant bell peppers, succulent shrimp, and a lip-smacking sauce swirl together to deliver the best kind of homemade takeout magic. Every crunchy, savory bite pops with color and keeps you coming back for “just one more forkful.” It’s a weeknight hero and a dinner party star all wrapped in one easy skillet meal!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love about Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry is that each ingredient is simple, yet plays a star role—think tender shrimp for protein, colorful peppers for crunch, and an irresistible sauce that brings everything together. Pull these from your pantry and fridge, and you’re halfway to a feast.
- Large shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined): Pick large, plump shrimp for juicy texture and satisfying bites; frozen, thawed shrimp work beautifully in a pinch.
- Vegetable or sesame oil (2 tbsp): This is your foundation for that classic stir-fry sizzle; sesame oil adds a nutty touch if you love it.
- Red bell pepper (sliced): Sweet, crisp, and gorgeously red, it’s the showstopper veggie here.
- Yellow bell pepper (sliced): Brightens the dish with color and a slightly milder sweetness compared to red.
- Small onion (sliced): Adds savory undertones and caramelizes to perfection.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Essential for savory depth; mince it fine so the flavor permeates every bite.
- Fresh ginger (1-inch piece, grated): Brings warmth and zing—fresh really makes a difference!
- Soy sauce or tamari (3 tbsp): The umami backbone; tamari is a great gluten-free swap.
- Oyster sauce (1 tbsp, optional): For a rich, silky, restaurant-style touch—you can skip if preferred.
- Honey or brown sugar (1 tsp): Just a hint for balance; it rounds out the flavors without making the dish sweet.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 tsp, optional): A splash of heat for those who like a little kick.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: You’ll want to season as you go for perfect balance in every forkful.
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving: The classic base; jasmine rice, soba, or lo mein noodles all shine.
- Optional garnish: sliced green onions or sesame seeds: Adds crunch and a pop of flavor and color right at the end.
How to Make Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry
Step 1: Make the Sauce
Start things off by whisking together your savory sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce (or tamari), oyster sauce if using, honey or brown sugar, and the red pepper flakes. This mix is the flavor heart of your Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry—balancing saltiness with a touch of sweetness and a hint of heat. Set it beside the stove so it’s ready for action.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Get your skillet or wok nice and hot over medium-high heat, then swirl in one tablespoon of oil. Toss in the shrimp, laying them out so they cook evenly. Let them sizzle for 2–3 minutes on each side, just until they turn a perfect pink and look opaque. Scoop the shrimp out onto a plate—you don’t want to overcook them—and keep them close for their grand return.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Pour the remaining oil into the hot skillet. Toss in your minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds; you’ll catch that incredible aroma right away. Add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers plus the onion. Stir-fry everything for 3–4 minutes, just enough to soften the veggies while keeping their vibrant color and a delightful hint of crunch.
Step 4: Combine Everything
With the veggies crisp-tender, invite the shrimp back into the party. Pour in your prepped sauce and toss everything together—making sure every piece gets a glossy coating. In just 1–2 minutes, the sauce thickens slightly and everything is hot and delicious. Taste and season with extra salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5: Serve
Spoon your Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry generously over a bowl of steaming rice or tender noodles. For that final flourish, sprinkle with sliced green onions or a handful of sesame seeds. Stand back and admire your colorful, saucy masterpiece!
How to Serve Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry
Garnishes
The right garnish really takes Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry to the next level. Try a generous scatter of sliced green onions for a burst of freshness, or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for a nutty snap. If you like more color, thinly sliced chili or even a wedge of lime for squeezing over the top can add a fun twist.
Side Dishes
This stir-fry is flavorful enough to stand on its own, but it plays beautifully with classic sides. Steamed jasmine rice or fluffy brown rice soak up that saucy goodness perfectly, while noodles (think lo mein or rice noodles) are always a hit. For extra greens, serve it with a side of sautéed bok choy, snap peas, or even a fresh cucumber salad.
Creative Ways to Present
Change things up by serving Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry in individual bowls over a nest of noodles, or pile it onto lettuce leaves for a handheld wrap. If you’re feeling fancy, dish it up on a big platter family-style, letting everyone help themselves. For parties, mini skewers with shrimp and peppers make the dish irresistibly snackable!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, pop any remaining Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The flavors remain bright, and the sauce keeps everything juicy. Just be sure to store the rice or noodles separately for best texture.
Freezing
While the dish is best fresh, you can freeze Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry in a pinch. Scoop cooled leftovers into a freezer-safe container, leaving a bit of space for expansion. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, though the peppers may lose some of their crispness.
Reheating
For the tastiest leftovers, reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, drizzling in a splash of water or stock to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long, as shrimp can become rubbery if overheated. A quick 2–3 minute stir is all you need for a hot, satisfying meal.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely, then pat them dry before cooking. Frozen shrimp are convenient and work brilliantly for stir-fries.
Is there a way to make Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use tamari instead of regular soy sauce, and double-check that your oyster sauce (if using) is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to get creative—snap peas, broccoli florets, or thinly sliced carrots are excellent additions. Just adjust the stir-fry time so everything stays crisp and colorful.
How can I make it spicier or milder?
Want more heat? Increase the red pepper flakes, add a dash of sriracha, or slice in some fresh chili. For a milder dish, skip the pepper flakes altogether and let the natural flavors shine.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the sauce and slice veggies in advance to save time. Cook the shrimp and peppers just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Give Shrimp and Pepper Stir-Fry a spot in your weeknight dinner rotation, and watch it become an instant favorite. It’s quick, beautiful, and packs a delightful punch in every bite—just the kind of meal you’ll look forward to again and again. Try it tonight, and happy cooking!