Amazing Shrimp Fried Rice in Under 30 Minutes

Name: Amazing Shrimp Fried Rice in Under 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked white rice, preferably day old, loosened; 2 tablespoons neutral-flavoured oil; 1 1/2 cups frozen peas and carrots, thawed; 1 medium onion, finely diced; 1 tablespoon garlic, minced; 1 cup frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil

by Fatima Garcia

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22 de January de 2026

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Shrimp fried rice has been my go-to for those nights when dinner needs to be on the table in a flash, but I still crave something truly delicious. I remember the first time I successfully whipped up a batch using leftover rice from takeout – the aroma of garlic and sizzling shrimp filled my kitchen, and it tasted even better than the restaurant version! This easy shrimp fried rice is a lifesaver, transforming simple ingredients into a vibrant, flavorful meal that’s both satisfying and impressive. Forget delivery menus; let’s get cooking and make some amazing homemade fried rice!

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Fried Rice

This recipe is a weeknight winner for so many reasons. It’s incredibly fast, making it perfect for busy evenings. Plus, it uses simple ingredients you might already have on hand.

It’s a quick shrimp fried rice that comes together in under 30 minutes.
You get that satisfying, restaurant-style flavor right in your own kitchen.
It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked rice, preventing food waste.
The customizable nature means you can tailor it to your taste preferences.
Enjoying delicious homemade shrimp fried rice feels like a true accomplishment.
It’s a balanced meal, packed with protein and vegetables.
The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water!

Shrimp Fried Rice Ingredients

Gathering the right shrimp fried rice ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious meal. This recipe focuses on simplicity and flavor, ensuring you get that perfect balance. I’ve found that using day-old rice is crucial for texture, as it’s drier and less likely to clump when stir-fried. The key to a great garlic shrimp fried rice comes from fresh garlic, so don’t skimp!

3 cups cooked white rice, preferably day old, loosened – This is the foundation; drier rice fries up better.
2 tablespoons neutral-flavoured oil – Like vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil, for high-heat cooking.
1 1/2 cups frozen peas and carrots, thawed – Adds color, sweetness, and essential nutrients.
1 medium onion, finely diced – About 1 cup, it provides a savory base.
1 tablespoon garlic, minced – The star for that irresistible garlicky aroma.
1 cup frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined – A quick-cooking protein that makes this a complete meal.
3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce – For that classic savory, umami flavor.
1 teaspoon sesame oil – Adds a nutty, fragrant finish.

How to Make Shrimp Fried Rice

Let’s get cooking! Making fantastic shrimp fried rice at home is surprisingly simple, and this guide will walk you through each step. Using a wok or a large, heavy skillet is ideal for achieving that authentic stir-fried texture, but any large pan will work. Remember, the key is high heat and constant motion!

Step 1: Get your pan sizzling! Heat 1 tablespoon of your neutral oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the frozen shrimp. Cook until they turn pink and opaque, which should only take about 2–3 minutes. Don’t overcook them! Once done, quickly remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside on a plate.
Step 2: Now, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the same hot pan. Toss in the finely diced onion and sauté until it becomes nice and translucent, about 2 minutes. You’ll start to smell its sweetness.
Step 3: Add the minced garlic to the onions. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until you can really smell that amazing garlicky fragrance. Be careful not to burn it!
Step 4: Introduce the day-old rice, thawed peas, and carrots to the pan. Break up any clumps of rice with your spoon or spatula. Stir and mix everything thoroughly, ensuring the vegetables heat through and the rice starts to get a little toasted, for about 2–3 minutes. This is where the magic of shrimp fried rice wok cooking really begins.
Step 5: Drizzle the low-sodium soy sauce and the fragrant sesame oil all over the rice and vegetable mixture. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan. Now, toss and stir everything together with gusto until all the components are evenly coated and heated through. This final toss should take about 2 more minutes.
Step 6: Give it a taste! Adjust seasoning if needed, perhaps with a touch more soy sauce or a pinch of salt. Serve your delicious shrimp fried rice hot immediately after mixing for the best flavor and texture.

Amazing Shrimp Fried Rice in Under 30 Minutes - Shrimp Fried Rice - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Shrimp Fried Rice

Achieving that perfect, restaurant-quality fried rice at home is totally doable with a few tricks up your sleeve. These tips will elevate your homemade creation from good to absolutely amazing.

Always use day-old, cold rice. Freshly cooked rice is too moist and will result in mushy fried rice.
Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook ingredients in batches if necessary to ensure everything stir-fries properly and doesn’t steam.
High heat is your friend. This helps achieve that slightly smoky flavor and prevents sogginess.
Prep all your ingredients before you start cooking. Stir-frying moves fast, so have everything chopped, measured, and ready to go.

What’s the secret to perfect Shrimp Fried Rice?

The secret to truly perfect fried rice lies in using cold, day-old rice and cooking over high heat. This combination ensures each grain fries up separately, giving you that ideal texture and a hint of wok hei flavor. For more on achieving authentic stir-fry flavors, check out this guide on how to cook rice for fried rice.

Can I make Shrimp Fried Rice ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare and cook the entire dish ahead of time. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. This is a great option for meal prepping, similar to how one might prepare other make-ahead meals.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Shrimp Fried Rice?

Avoid using fresh, hot rice, as it will clump and become mushy. Also, don’t overcrowd your pan; cook in batches if needed to ensure proper stir-frying and prevent steaming.

Best Ways to Serve Shrimp Fried Rice

This delightful shrimp fried rice is a complete meal on its own, but it also shines as a fantastic side dish. For a truly satisfying meal, consider serving it alongside other Asian-inspired favorites. Imagine a plate piled high with this savory rice, perhaps alongside some tender steamed broccoli or crispy spring rolls.

A wonderful pairing is a light and refreshing soup, like a classic hot and sour soup or a delicate miso soup. If you’re looking to add even more color and nutrients, consider serving it with a side of stir-fried bok choy or a vibrant salad featuring crisp lettuce and a tangy ginger dressing. This dish is also a great way to incorporate more veggies; a simple shrimp fried rice with vegetables makes for a wonderfully balanced and colorful plate. For more ideas on vegetable pairings, explore our collection of side dishes.

Nutrition Facts for Shrimp Fried Rice

Understanding the nutritional breakdown helps make informed choices about your meal. This shrimp fried rice recipe offers a good balance of protein and carbohydrates, perfect for a satisfying dinner.

Calories: Approximately 350-400 calories (estimated)
Fat: N/A
Saturated Fat: N/A
Protein: N/A
Carbohydrates: N/A
Fiber: N/A
Sugar: N/A
Sodium: N/A

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Shrimp Fried Rice

One of the best things about this homemade shrimp fried rice is how well it stores and reheats, making it perfect for meal prepping. Once your delicious fried rice has cooled down a bit (don’t leave it at room temperature for more than two hours!), transfer it into airtight containers. This helps maintain its freshness and prevents it from drying out. You can confidently store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. It makes for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner later in the week.

If you want to store it for longer, the freezer is your best friend! Properly sealed in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, your shrimp fried rice can keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, the best way to reheat is on the stovetop. Gently warm it in a skillet over medium heat, breaking up clumps and adding a splash of water or soy sauce if it seems dry. You can also microwave it, stirring halfway through, until heated through. Either method will bring back that wonderful flavor! For more tips on food storage, consider these kitchen tips and tricks.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shrimp Fried Rice

What is shrimp fried rice?

Shrimp fried rice is a classic Asian dish made by stir-frying cooked rice with shrimp, vegetables, and seasonings like soy sauce and sesame oil. It’s a beloved comfort food that’s incredibly versatile and can be customized with different vegetables and proteins. This dish is known for its savory flavor and satisfying texture, making it a popular choice for both quick weeknight meals and restaurant dining.

Is shrimp fried rice healthy?

This easy shrimp fried rice recipe can be quite healthy, depending on the ingredients and portion sizes. Shrimp is a lean protein, and the addition of vegetables boosts fiber and nutrients. Using low-sodium soy sauce and controlling the amount of oil helps manage sodium and fat content, making it a balanced meal option.

Can I use fresh shrimp instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If you have fresh shrimp, you can certainly use them. Just make sure they are peeled and deveined before cooking. The cooking time might be slightly different, so watch them closely until they turn pink and opaque. Fresh or frozen, the key is not to overcook them.

What’s the difference between shrimp fried rice and chicken fried rice?

The primary difference between shrimp fried rice and chicken fried rice is the protein used. Shrimp fried rice features succulent shrimp, offering a lighter, slightly sweeter seafood flavor. Chicken fried rice, of course, uses diced or shredded chicken. Both are delicious variations of the classic fried rice dish, offering different flavor profiles and textures.

Variations of Shrimp Fried Rice You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic technique, the possibilities for customizing your shrimp fried rice are endless! Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Here are a few ideas to get you started, from flavor boosts to dietary adjustments.

Garlic Lover’s Dream: Amp up the garlic! For an extra punch of flavor, double the minced garlic or add a tablespoon of garlic paste when sautéing the onions. This creates an intensely aromatic and delicious garlic shrimp fried rice that’s irresistible.
Spicy Kick: Craving some heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic, or stir in some sriracha or chili garlic sauce at the end for a vibrant spicy shrimp fried rice. Adjust the amount to your preferred heat level.
Vegetarian Delight: Easily make this vegetarian by omitting the shrimp and doubling up on your favorite vegetables. Think broccoli florets, snap peas, bell peppers, or even edamame.
Pineapple Paradise: For a sweet and savory twist, add about half a cup of diced fresh or canned pineapple along with the peas and carrots. It brings a tropical flair that pairs surprisingly well with the savory soy sauce.

Amazing Shrimp Fried Rice in Under 30 Minutes - Shrimp Fried Rice - additional detail