Side Dishes

Shrimp and Egg Stir-Fry

Spread the love

 

In just about 15 minutes, you can bring together a restaurant-quality dish that’s comforting, protein-rich, and elegantly simple. This Shrimp and Egg Stir-Fry recipe is a shining example of how minimal ingredients and thoughtful preparation can produce incredible flavor. With its soft, creamy eggs, juicy shrimp, and aromatic garlic, this dish is light yet satisfying—a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or lazy weekend lunches.

It’s perfect for:

  • Home cooks who want a fast, fuss-free dinner.

  • Fitness-focused eaters looking for a high-protein, low-carb option.

  • Seafood lovers who crave shrimp in an easy-to-prep format.

  • Anyone wanting to enjoy a classic Asian-style comfort dish without a long ingredient list.


Why You’ll Love This Shrimp and Egg Stir-Fry

This dish is inspired by traditional Chinese comfort food, often found in home kitchens more than restaurants. The pairing of fluffy scrambled eggs and tender shrimp is simple, yet deeply satisfying. It strikes a perfect balance of texture and taste: soft eggs, plump shrimp, and the aromatic depth of garlic and green onions. Best of all, it uses staple ingredients and takes under 20 minutes from prep to plate.


Ingredients for Shrimp and Egg Stir-Fry

  • 8 large eggs

  • 1/4 cup milk (optional, for creamier eggs)

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced


Kitchen Equipment Needed

This dish is as simple in preparation as it is in ingredients. Here’s all you’ll need:

  • Large skillet or wok

  • Medium mixing bowl

  • Whisk or fork

  • Spatula

  • Knife and cutting board

  • Measuring spoons


Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

  • 8 large eggs

  • 1/4 cup milk (for extra creaminess)

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Set aside.

2. Cook the Shrimp

Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook—they should be just done. Remove the shrimp and set aside.

3. Sauté the Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the same pan and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

4. Cook the Eggs

Pour the egg mixture into the pan. Let it sit for a few seconds, then gently stir. Cook the eggs until they are just set but still slightly soft—this gives them a velvety texture that pairs perfectly with the shrimp.

5. Combine and Finish

Add the shrimp back into the pan. Stir everything together gently to combine. Turn off the heat once everything is warmed through.

6. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with sliced green onions and serve immediately.


Tips, Tricks, and Variations

Tips for Best Results:

  • Use fresh shrimp when possible. It delivers better texture and flavor than pre-cooked or frozen varieties.

  • Don’t overcook the eggs. Remove them from the heat while still slightly underdone; they’ll continue to cook in the pan’s residual heat.

  • Season carefully. Taste your shrimp before adding extra salt, especially if your shrimp were pre-seasoned or brined.

Variations:

  • Add veggies: Toss in a handful of baby spinach, snow peas, or bell pepper slices.

  • Add heat: A dash of sriracha, chili oil, or red pepper flakes can spice things up.

  • Make it richer: Use butter instead of vegetable oil for a silkier egg texture.

  • Soy sauce splash: For an umami punch, add a teaspoon of low-sodium soy sauce or a drizzle of sesame oil before serving.


How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a nonstick pan over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals. Be cautious not to overcook the eggs when reheating—they’ll become rubbery.

Note: This dish is best enjoyed fresh due to the delicate texture of both the eggs and shrimp.


Serving Suggestions

This dish shines on its own, but you can serve it with a few simple sides to round out the meal:

  • Steamed jasmine or basmati rice

  • Garlic fried rice

  • Light miso soup

  • Cucumber salad or sautéed bok choy

Pair with a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, or even a refreshing iced green tea.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but be sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the pan.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely. Simply skip the milk—your eggs will still be tender, though slightly less creamy.

What size shrimp should I use?

Medium to large shrimp (31/40 or 21/25 count) are ideal for this dish—they cook quickly and pair nicely with the eggs without overpowering them.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

You can prep the egg mixture and clean the shrimp in advance. However, cook the dish just before serving for the best texture and flavor.


Final Thoughts + Call to Action

This Shrimp and Egg Stir-Fry is proof that delicious doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s an elegant, wholesome meal that comes together quickly and leaves you feeling full and satisfied. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this versatile dish will become a favorite in your weekly rotation.

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and family—and be sure to subscribe to our blog for more quick, flavor-packed meals like this one. Your next kitchen favorite is just a recipe away!