If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, quick to whip up, and wonderfully satisfying, then this Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like a pro chef without spending hours over the stove. With perfectly cooked shrimp, colorful veggies, and fragrant soy sauce all coming together in fluffy rice, this dish brings comfort and excitement to your dinner table. Plus, it’s flexible enough to fit any weeknight or casual gathering, making it a go-to for anyone who loves tasty, fuss-free cooking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh, and pantry-friendly ingredients is the key to making this dish shine. Each element plays its part to create the beautiful balance of taste, texture, and color that defines an unforgettable shrimp fried rice.
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil: Adds a light, fruity base for cooking the shrimp and veggies.
- 2 Tablespoons sesame oil: Infuses that irresistible nutty aroma typical of fried rice.
- 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails removed): Tender, juicy shrimp are the star protein that elevate the dish.
- 1 12 oz package frozen peas and carrots mix: These add vibrant color and a gentle sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
- ½ cup green onions (thinly sliced): Brings fresh, mild onion flavor with both white and green parts contributing crispness and depth.
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic: Delivers aromatic warmth that ties everything together.
- 3 eggs (lightly beaten): Provide silkiness and added richness to the rice.
- 3 and 1/2 cups cooked rice: Best if chilled and a bit firm, it soaks up all the flavors without turning mushy.
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or more to taste): The salty backbone that seasons the entire dish beautifully.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing all the natural flavors without overpowering.
How to Make Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp
Start by heating the olive oil and sesame oil together in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. The combination of oils ensures a flavorful, aromatic base for cooking. Once the oils are hot, add the shrimp. Cook them quickly, about 30 to 60 seconds per side, until they’re just about done. This prevents overcooking and keeps the shrimp tender and juicy.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Aromatics
Next, stir in the frozen peas and carrots, letting them cook alongside the shrimp until they begin to soften, roughly 2 minutes. Then add the green onions and minced garlic, sautéing everything together for about one more minute. This layering technique helps each ingredient shine on its own while building complex, harmonious flavors.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
Push the shrimp and vegetable mixture to one side of the skillet, clearing space for the eggs. Pour the lightly beaten eggs into the empty side and scramble them gently until just set. Then, mix the eggs back into the shrimp and veggies. This step adds a creamy texture and helps bind the dish together.
Step 4: Combine with Rice and Soy Sauce
Now it’s time for the rice, the heart of the dish. Add the cooked, preferably chilled rice into the skillet. Drizzle the soy sauce over everything and stir thoroughly to combine. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the rice to soak up the soy and flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve
Before serving, taste and add more soy sauce, salt, or pepper if desired. This final touch lets you customize the dish to your preferred level of savory goodness. Serve it warm and enjoy the delightful comfort of your very own Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe.
How to Serve Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can turn this dish from delicious to downright stunning. Fresh chopped cilantro, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, or thin slices of fresh chili add brightness, crunch, and a pop of color. A wedge of lime on the side also brightens every bite with a zesty kick.
Side Dishes
This recipe stands perfectly on its own, but pairing it with light side dishes can create a fuller meal. Asian-inspired cucumber salad, steamed bok choy with garlic, or a crisp seaweed salad provide refreshing contrasts that complement the richness of the shrimp fried rice.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve the shrimp fried rice inside lettuce cups or hollowed-out bell peppers. You can also mold the rice into neat little domes using a bowl or cup, then plate with garnishes for an elegant touch that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it down quickly before sealing to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover fried rice, but be advised that the texture might change slightly upon thawing. For best results, lay the rice flat in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. Freeze up to 1 month.
Reheating
Reheat leftover fried rice in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil or water to rejuvenate the moisture and texture. Microwave reheating works too, but stir occasionally to ensure even warming and prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use day-old rice for this recipe?
Absolutely! Day-old rice is actually preferred for fried rice as it’s drier and less sticky, which helps achieve the perfect texture without clumping.
What type of shrimp works best for this recipe?
Raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp are ideal since they cook quickly and absorb the flavors well. Tail removal is up to you, but it makes eating much easier.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the shrimp and increase the vegetables or add tofu for protein. The soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil still deliver fantastic flavor.
How spicy is this Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe?
The base recipe isn’t spicy, but you can easily add sliced fresh chilies, a dash of chili flakes, or hot sauce to turn up the heat to your liking.
Is sesame oil necessary?
While not absolutely necessary, sesame oil adds a traditional, nutty depth that makes the dish more authentic and flavorful. If unavailable, you can substitute with a mild vegetable oil and add a small drizzle of toasted sesame seeds as garnish.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe is a total winner when you want a delicious homemade meal that comes together effortlessly. It’s packed with fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and comforting textures that will make you smile every time you take a bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, or just craving something satisfying on a busy night, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite on your dinner rotation. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll keep coming back for more!
Print
Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A quick and flavorful Easy Shrimp Fried Rice recipe that combines tender shrimp, mixed vegetables, scrambled eggs, and perfectly cooked rice, all tossed together with a savory soy sauce blend. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Vegetables
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 2 Tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled, deveined, and tails removed)
- 1 12 oz package frozen peas and carrots mix
- ½ cup green onions (thinly sliced, about 4, use both the white and green parts)
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
Eggs and Rice
- 3 eggs (lightly beaten)
- 3 and 1/2 cups rice (cooked)
Seasoning
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or more to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat Oils and Cook Shrimp: In a large skillet or wok, heat olive oil and sesame oil over medium-high heat. When the oils are hot, add the shrimp and cook until almost done, about 30-60 seconds per side, ensuring they turn pink and are nearly cooked through.
- Add Vegetables: Add the frozen peas and carrots to the skillet with the shrimp and cook until they begin to soften, about 2 minutes. Stir in the green onions and minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute to release their flavors.
- Cook Eggs: Push the shrimp and vegetable mixture to one side of the skillet. Pour the lightly beaten eggs into the empty side. Allow them to set briefly, then scramble them gently until cooked, and mix the eggs back in with the shrimp and vegetables.
- Add Rice and Soy Sauce: Add the cooked rice and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir everything together thoroughly and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to heat through and absorb the flavors.
- Season and Serve: Taste the fried rice and add more soy sauce, salt, or pepper as desired. Serve warm for a delicious meal.
Notes
- Use day-old rice if possible, as it is less sticky and works better for fried rice.
- Adjust soy sauce quantity to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
- Feel free to substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a variation.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha.
- Make sure shrimp is fully cooked before proceeding to the next step for food safety.
