Name: Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/2 tablespoon Shaoxing wine; 1/8 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon white pepper; 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch; 1/2 cup chicken stock; 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 1/2 teaspoons dark soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1/8 teaspoon white pepper; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 head broccoli, cut into florets; 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or canola oil); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a lightning-fast, satisfyingly delicious main that tastes as good—or even better—than your favorite Chinese takeout, Shrimp and Broccoli is about to become your weeknight hero. Plump, juicy shrimp and crisp-tender broccoli florets are tossed in a glossy, umami-rich sauce that clings to every bite, making each mouthful irresistible. Best of all, it’s ready in just minutes and uses simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. Whether you serve it over steamy rice or savor it on its own, Shrimp and Broccoli is a recipe that brings restaurant magic right to your dinner table!

Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about what makes Shrimp and Broccoli such a joy to cook (and eat). The beauty here is in how each ingredient works its magic: the shrimp bring sweetness and a succulent bite, broccoli offers vibrant color and crisp contrast, and the sauce is a powerhouse of savory depth. Don’t skip on the aromatics—they’re the secret to that mouthwatering fragrance you’ll notice immediately!

Shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined): The star of the show! Fresh or frozen both work, just make sure they’re well-cleaned for the best flavor and texture.
Shaoxing wine (1/2 tablespoon): A classic Chinese rice wine that enhances flavor and keeps shrimp tender—dry sherry works in a pinch.
Salt (1/8 teaspoon): Just a hint brings out all the natural sweetness in the shrimp and broccoli.
White pepper (1/8 teaspoon + 1/8 teaspoon): Adds gentle warmth and a subtle peppery note you can’t get from black pepper.
Cornstarch (1/2 teaspoon for marinade + 1 tablespoon for sauce): Locks in moisture for the shrimp and thickens the sauce to a silky finish.
Chicken stock (1/2 cup): The flavor foundation of your sauce—use homemade, boxed, or even vegetable stock for a lighter touch.
Oyster sauce (2 tablespoons): Delivers deep, savory-sweet umami—the flavor “oomph” you’ll recognize in restaurant stir fries.
Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Balances saltiness and color; use low sodium if that’s your preference.
Dark soy sauce (1 1/2 teaspoons): Gives gorgeous color and a hint of molasses undertone to the dish; you can use all regular soy sauce if you don’t have dark.
Sugar (1 teaspoon): Just enough to round out the edges of the sauce and balance the salt.
Broccoli (1 head, cut into florets): Bright, fresh, and a perfect partner for shrimp’s sweetness.
Peanut oil or canola oil (1 tablespoon): High smoke point ensures your shrimp sear beautifully—use what you have on hand.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): The backbone of aroma and flavor for most great stir fries!
Ginger (1 teaspoon, minced): Adds a zesty, peppery kick and incredible fragrance.

How to Make Shrimp and Broccoli

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

Start by placing your peeled and deveined shrimp in a large bowl. Add the Shaoxing wine, salt, white pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of cornstarch. Give everything a good toss so that every shrimp is nicely coated in the marinade. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes—this simple step is essential for juicy, flavorful shrimp that don’t overcook or go rubbery.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

While the shrimp are marinating, grab a small bowl and whisk together the chicken stock, oyster sauce, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, 1/8 teaspoon of white pepper, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Make sure everything is dissolved and you have a smooth, glossy sauce ready to go. This potent mixture is what turns Shrimp and Broccoli into an unforgettable meal.

Step 3: Steam the Broccoli

In a large skillet, pour in 1/4 cup of water and bring it to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets, cover with a lid, and let the steam work its magic for about a minute, just until the broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender. Transfer the broccoli to a plate and quickly wipe the pan dry with paper towels—you’ll want a clean pan for the next step!

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Set the clean pan back over medium-high heat and swirl in your oil of choice. Add the marinated shrimp, laying them in a single even layer, and let them sizzle undisturbed for about a minute to get that golden sear. Flip the shrimp over, then scatter in the minced garlic and ginger. Let everything cook together for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring a few times, until fragrant and the shrimp are nearly cooked through.

Step 5: Combine Everything and Finish the Dish

Quickly whisk your prepared sauce to re-incorporate the cornstarch, then pour it into the pan with the shrimp. Add the steamed broccoli back in. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and everything is gloriously coated. Transfer your Shrimp and Broccoli to a serving platter; prepare for applause!

How to Serve Shrimp and Broccoli

Garnishes

A finishing sprinkle of sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds will make your Shrimp and Broccoli even more inviting. If you’re a fan of heat, a drizzle of chili oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes add a little sparkle and contrast. For an extra pop of color, try a handful of fresh cilantro leaves just before serving.

Side Dishes

Shrimp and Broccoli shines as a main event, especially when served over fragrant jasmine or steamed white rice to soak up every morsel of that delicious sauce. You can also pair it with brown rice, cauliflower rice for something lighter, or even toss it with noodles for a new twist. Light vegetable spring rolls or a simple cucumber salad make lovely companions.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not give your Shrimp and Broccoli a fresh spin? Pile it into lettuce cups for a fun, hands-on dinner—great for parties and family nights. Or serve it as part of a larger feast with potstickers and egg drop soup. For meal prepping, scoop individual portions with rice into lunchboxes: they reheat beautifully!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Shrimp and Broccoli (lucky you!), let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored properly in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 2 days. The broccoli may soften slightly over time, but the flavors only get better!

Freezing

While shrimp usually freeze well, broccoli can become mushy after thawing. If you do want to freeze, place just the shrimp and sauce in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month; add freshly steamed broccoli when ready to eat for best results.

Reheating

To reheat Shrimp and Broccoli, gently warm it in a skillet on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to revive the sauce. If using the microwave, cover loosely and use short bursts, stirring in between to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp and Broccoli?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them fully and pat them dry before marinating. This helps them sear nicely without releasing too much water into the pan.

What if I don’t have Shaoxing wine?

No worries—dry sherry or even a splash of mirin are great substitutes. If alcohol isn’t an option, simply leave it out or add a teaspoon of extra chicken stock.

Can I make Shrimp and Broccoli gluten-free?

Definitely. Use gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari) and double check the oyster sauce is gluten-free, or substitute with a gluten-free mushroom sauce for a similar rich flavor.

How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?

Watch closely! Shrimp only need about a minute per side. As soon as they turn pink and curl into a C-shape, they’re ready. Overcooked shrimp become tough quickly, so don’t walk away from the stove.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! While Shrimp and Broccoli is a classic combo, you can toss in snow peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms for color and variety. Just adjust the steam time so everything is cooked to your liking.

Final Thoughts

You’re just one skillet away from a stir fry that’ll wow everyone at your table. Give this Shrimp and Broccoli a try—you’ll be amazed by how something so simple can be this delicious. Pour yourself a bowl, dig in, and make tonight’s dinner a total win!

Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 21 reviews

Author: Lila
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Easy takeout-style shrimp and broccoli recipe that cooks up quickly, featuring marinated shrimp cooked with broccoli in a savory sauce, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.

Instructions

Marinate the Shrimp: Combine shrimp with wine, salt, pepper, and cornstarch. Marinate for 15 minutes.
Prepare the Sauce: Mix together chicken stock, oyster sauce, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, white pepper, and cornstarch.
Cook the Broccoli: Steam broccoli until just cooked; set aside.
Cook the Shrimp: Sear marinated shrimp until golden, add garlic and ginger.
Add Sauce: Pour in the sauce and cooked broccoli. Stir until sauce thickens.
Serve: Transfer to a serving plate and serve hot over rice.