If you’re craving a comforting and flavorful meal that comes together quickly, this Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe is a total game-changer. It blends succulent shrimp with fluffy day-old rice, crisp veggies, and a savory sauce that lifts every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend treat, this dish checks all the boxes for taste, texture, and satisfaction. The combination of aromatic sesame oil, soy sauce, and just the right touch of garlic makes it irresistibly delicious and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each component plays a vital role: shrimp brings protein and sweetness, vegetables add color and crunch, rice offers that perfect fluffy base, and the seasonings tie everything together with bold flavor.
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: Choose fresh or thawed frozen shrimp for the best texture and taste.
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old): Day-old rice is key to preventing mushy fried rice and helping it crisp up perfectly.
- 2 tbsp sesame oil (or vegetable oil): Sesame oil adds a rich, nutty aroma, but vegetable oil works well too if you prefer a milder taste.
- 1/2 cup onion, finely diced: Onion adds sweetness and depth once sautéed.
- 1/2 cup carrots, diced (or frozen peas and carrots): Carrots bring a subtle sweetness and a satisfying crunch.
- 1/2 cup green peas (frozen or fresh): Peas add a pop of color and a tender bite.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic gives that aromatic punch that wakes up the entire dish.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Eggs enrich the rice with silky texture and added protein.
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free): The salty umami backbone that brings all the flavors together.
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional): Adds a layer of savory complexity if you want to deepen the flavor even more.
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper: For a gentle spice kick to balance the dish.
- 1/2 tsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish): Adds a subtle crunch and extra nutty flavor when sprinkled on top.
- 2-3 green onions, chopped (for garnish): Fresh green onions brighten the dish visually and taste-wise.
How to Make Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and firm, signaling they’re perfectly cooked. Remove them from the skillet and set aside so they don’t overcook while you tackle the next steps.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil. Toss in the diced onion and carrots or your choice of peas and carrots. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables soften and start to release their natural sweetness. This is where your fried rice begins developing those lovely layers of flavor and texture.
Step 3: Add the Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as that can make the dish bitter. The garlic infuses the oil and veggies with rich aroma which is an essential part of the Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe magic.
Step 4: Cook the Eggs
Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet, creating space for the eggs. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty spot and gently scramble them until fully cooked. The eggs add silkiness and a wonderful protein balance that complements the shrimp perfectly.
Step 5: Combine with Rice
Now add the cooked rice to the skillet. Break up any clumps with your spatula and mix everything together thoroughly. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes allowing the rice to heat through and develop a slight crisp on the edges—this textural contrast is what makes stir-fried rice so delightful.
Step 6: Add Shrimp and Seasonings
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and drizzle the soy sauce and optional oyster sauce over the rice. Stir everything together well so the rice and ingredients are evenly coated in that umami-rich sauce. Let it cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through and bursting with flavor.
Step 7: Final Touches
Season the mixture with ground black pepper to suit your taste. The pepper adds a mild heat that balances the savory flavors and finishes off this dish beautifully. Almost there—time to make it look and taste inviting!
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped green onions and optional sesame seeds on top for a fresh, crunchy contrast and delightful aroma. Serve the Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe hot straight from the pan for maximum enjoyment and savor every delicious bite!
How to Serve Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling fresh green onions and sesame seeds on top adds a burst of color and crunch that brighten the flavors and presentation. You can also add a squeeze of lime or a dab of chili sauce if you want to mix up the taste profile with some zest or heat.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides such as a simple cucumber salad or steamed broccoli to complement the fried rice without overpowering it. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside egg rolls or hot and sour soup for a restaurant-style feast at home.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate this Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe by serving it in individual pineapple bowls for a tropical vibe. You can also mold the rice into neat little domes using a small bowl or ramekin before plating, adding a professional touch that makes the meal feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, cool the shrimp fried rice to room temperature and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for 2 to 3 days and makes for a convenient, tasty lunch or dinner option on busy days.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooled rice in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. This recipe freezes well for up to 1 month. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
When reheating, do so in a hot skillet or wok with a splash of oil. This helps revive the rice’s crispiness and keeps the shrimp tender. You can also microwave it, but stirring halfway through helps heat it evenly and prevents sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?
While you can use freshly cooked rice, day-old rice is drier and less sticky, which helps achieve the ideal texture for shrimp fried rice. Fresh rice tends to clump and can make the dish soggy.
What can I substitute for shrimp?
If shrimp isn’t your preference, this recipe works beautifully with chicken, tofu, or even a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian-friendly version. Adjust cooking times accordingly so everything is cooked perfectly.
Is oyster sauce necessary?
Oyster sauce is optional but highly recommended for adding deep umami notes. If you prefer or need a vegetarian option, you can omit it or substitute with a mushroom-based sauce for a similar effect.
How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?
Using day-old rice that has been refrigerated dries it out and helps avoid mushiness. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan and keep the heat high enough to quickly stir-fry and crisp the rice.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your oyster sauce (if using) is gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy all the delicious flavors without worry.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe is one of those go-to dishes that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. It’s a wonderful way to turn simple ingredients into a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal at home. I can’t wait for you to try it and add your own flair to this classic favorite—happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
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
This Shrimp Fried Rice recipe is a delicious and quick one-pan meal featuring succulent shrimp, savory vegetables, and fragrant sesame oil sautéed with day-old rice for the perfect texture. Enhanced with soy and oyster sauces, it’s a flavorful, satisfying dish ideal for weeknight dinners or anytime you crave a classic Asian-inspired stir-fry.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Rice
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
Vegetables
- 1/2 cup onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup carrots, diced (or frozen peas and carrots)
- 1/2 cup green peas (frozen or fresh)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Egg and Seasonings
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional for added umami)
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 2–3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Oils
- 2 tbsp sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper, cooking for 2-3 minutes until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil. Sauté diced onion and carrots (or peas and carrots) for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add Garlic: Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds more until fragrant.
- Cook the Eggs: Push the vegetables aside and pour the beaten eggs into the empty side of the skillet. Scramble eggs until fully cooked.
- Add Rice: Add the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes to allow rice to crisp slightly.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauces: Return cooked shrimp to the skillet. Drizzle soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) over the rice mixture, stirring to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Season: Add ground black pepper to taste and mix well.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful shrimp fried rice!
Notes
- Using day-old rice helps achieve the ideal texture preventing sogginess.
- Oyster sauce is optional but adds rich umami flavor.
- You can substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for variation.
- Adjust soy sauce quantity to suit your salt preference or dietary needs.
- For gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and omit oyster sauce or find a gluten-free alternative.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet to ensure even cooking and proper stir-frying.
