If there’s one dish that always satisfies cravings and delivers a punch of flavor, it’s Shrimp Fried Rice. This homemade version is vibrant yet easy enough for busy weeknights, bursting with juicy shrimp, colorful veggies, and craveworthy seasoning. In just about 25 minutes, you can achieve that irresistible combination of fluffy grains, tender shrimp, and savory sauces—all without the need for takeout. Get ready to bring your favorite Asian-inspired comfort food right to your dinner table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about why every ingredient in this Shrimp Fried Rice matters! Simple doesn’t have to mean boring—each component adds depth, color, and irresistible texture to the finished dish. Together, they transform plain rice into a main course that’s both comforting and unforgettable.
- Shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined): The star protein—quick to cook, sweet, and briny, shrimp soaks up every bit of savory flavor.
- Cold Cooked Jasmine Rice (3 cups): Day-old rice ensures grains stay separate and chewy instead of mushy—perfect for stir-frying.
- Vegetable Oil (2 tbsp, divided): A neutral base for stir-frying that lets all the other flavors shine while keeping everything from sticking.
- Eggs (2, lightly beaten): Soft scrambled eggs add a classic touch of richness, along with beautiful color throughout the rice.
- Frozen Peas and Carrots (1 cup, thawed): This simple veggie mix brings both sweetness and a splash of green and orange for eye-catching appeal.
- Green Onions (3, sliced): Provides freshness and a gentle bite—the green tops are great as a final garnish too!
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): The unmistakable aroma that gives your fried rice its craveable, mouthwatering backbone.
- Soy Sauce (3 tbsp): Delivers essential umami, saltiness, and that nostalgic “takeout” flavor.
- Oyster Sauce (1 tbsp, optional): For even more savory depth and a glossy finish—just a little elevates the whole dish.
- Sesame Oil (1 tsp): A drizzle at the end infuses toastiness and brings everything together.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): The final touch, ensuring every bite is perfectly seasoned.
How to Make Shrimp Fried Rice
Step 1: Sear the Shrimp
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer, letting them sizzle undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they’re pink and opaque. Remove them to a plate—they’ll finish cooking later, so don’t overdo it here. This first step locks in their juicy flavor and keeps them beautifully tender.
Step 2: Scramble the Eggs
In the same pan, pour in the last tablespoon of oil. Add the beaten eggs and scramble them for about a minute—just until softly set. Push the eggs to one side of the skillet. This trick keeps the eggs fluffy and tender, so you get ribbons of golden egg throughout your Shrimp Fried Rice.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies
On the other side of the skillet, toss in the minced garlic, thawed peas and carrots, and sliced green onions. Stir-fry everything for about 2 minutes, just until the veggies brighten up and the garlic becomes fragrant. This is where those irresistible fried rice aromas start to fill your kitchen!
Step 4: Add and Stir-Fry the Rice
Turn up the heat a touch and add in your cold jasmine rice, making sure to break up any clumps with your spatula. Stir everything together, merging the eggs, veggies, and rice. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes to heat the rice through, letting the grains absorb all those delicious flavors.
Step 5: Combine Shrimp & Flavor Boosters
Now for the best part! Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), and sesame oil. Add the cooked shrimp back to the pan. Toss everything well, making sure every grain of rice is coated and the shrimp are nicely distributed. Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Let it cook for just 1 to 2 more minutes, then your Shrimp Fried Rice is piping hot and ready to serve.
How to Serve Shrimp Fried Rice
Garnishes
The finishing touches do more than just make your Shrimp Fried Rice look extra tempting! Scatter some reserved sliced green onions on top for a pop of color and freshness. If you want a hint of heat, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a dash of chili flakes adds character and crunch.
Side Dishes
Shrimp Fried Rice can easily stand on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with other Asian-inspired sides. Try it with crunchy spring rolls, a quick cucumber salad, or a light miso soup. For a larger spread, consider stir-fried bok choy or steamed edamame. These options round out your meal and let the Shrimp Fried Rice shine.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Shrimp Fried Rice into a showstopper by serving it in hollowed-out pineapple halves or mini cast iron skillets. For a fun family dinner, set out bowls of chopped herbs, lime wedges, and sriracha so everyone can customize their own. If you’re making this for a party, try mini rice cups using a muffin tin for adorable single-serving portions!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Shrimp Fried Rice in an airtight container and refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. It will stay fresh for up to three days. Make sure to cool it fully before sealing, so steam doesn’t build up and make the rice soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze Shrimp Fried Rice for up to two months—just let it cool completely and pack it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. For best results, portion it into individual servings for easy reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, sprinkle a little water over the rice and microwave it covered until steaming hot, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of oil if needed. This helps revive the rice’s fluffy texture and brings back that just-cooked flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While jasmine rice gives the best texture and fragrance, you can use any long-grain rice you have. Just make sure it’s fully cooled, ideally a day old, to prevent stickiness.
Is it necessary to thaw the frozen peas and carrots?
Yes, thawing the vegetables ensures they cook quickly and blend evenly into the rice. If you add them frozen, they’ll steam too much and can make the rice watery.
How can I make Shrimp Fried Rice gluten-free?
Simply swap out regular soy sauce for a certified gluten-free version or tamari. Also, check that your oyster sauce (if using) is gluten-free or omit it entirely. The result will still be delicious!
Can I substitute chicken or tofu for the shrimp?
Definitely! This recipe is endlessly adaptable. Sauté bite-sized chicken pieces until cooked through, or cube tofu and crisp it up before adding to the rice for a satisfying vegetarian twist.
Why is cold rice better for making Shrimp Fried Rice?
Cold, day-old rice is drier and firmer than freshly cooked rice. This means it fries beautifully—absorbing flavors and staying fluffy—without turning into a sticky, clumpy mess.
Final Thoughts
Shrimp Fried Rice is the kind of dish you’ll find yourself craving again and again—the perfect mix of comfort, color, and fun. Once you try it homemade, there’s no going back! Treat yourself to this crowd-pleasing favorite and don’t forget to share your own creative twists. Dinner just got a whole lot more exciting!
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Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy the flavors of a homemade takeout favorite with this delicious Shrimp Fried Rice recipe. Succulent shrimp, tender vegetables, and fluffy rice come together in a savory dish that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
For the Fried Rice:
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably cold)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
- 2 eggs (lightly beaten)
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (thawed)
- 3 green onions (sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Fried Rice: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon oil. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble for about 1 minute. Push eggs to one side of the pan. Add garlic, peas, carrots, and green onions to the other side of the pan. Stir-fry for 2 minutes. Add cold rice, break up clumps, and cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
- Combine and Serve: Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and cooked shrimp. Toss well to combine and cook for 1–2 more minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.
Notes
- Cold day-old rice works best for fried rice to prevent mushiness.
- Customize with additional vegetables or use low-sodium soy sauce for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir Fry
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 185mg
