If you’re craving a comfort food that delivers big on flavor but won’t keep you in the kitchen all day, this Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a vibrant, satisfying dish packed with tender shrimp, colorful veggies, and perfectly seasoned rice, all whipped up in about 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe blends simple ingredients to create a flavorful meal that feels both special and familiar.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe are straightforward yet essential for creating a well-balanced dish. Each one adds something special—freshness, texture, or that umami kick—so having these at hand really sets you up for success.
- 4 tablespoons butter (divided): Provides richness and helps with sautéing everything to a golden finish.
- 2 large eggs: Adds protein and those delightful little fluffy bites throughout the rice.
- 1 pound raw shrimp (cleaned and tails removed): The star ingredient offering juicy, tender seafood flavor.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Brings a toasty, nutty aroma that elevates the entire dish.
- 1 bunch scallions (chopped, whites and greens separated): Adds bright, fresh onion flavor with a subtle crunch.
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger: Delivers a bit of warmth and zing that pairs wonderfully with shrimp.
- 5 cups cold cooked white rice: Day-old rice works best to keep the texture perfect—fluffy but not mushy.
- ¼ cup soy sauce: Provides savory depth and just the right touch of saltiness.
- 2 cups frozen peas, carrots, and corn mix: Adds color, sweetness, and a crisp vegetable contrast.
How to Make Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prep Like a Pro
Before you heat up your pan, make sure all the ingredients are ready to go—beat the eggs, chop scallions, grate ginger, and clean the shrimp. This prep work sets you up for a smooth cooking flow, so once the pan’s hot, everything comes together quickly and beautifully.
Step 2: Cook the Eggs
Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large sauté pan set over medium heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and stir gently, letting them cook until just set. Moving them around with a wooden spoon helps create soft, fluffy scrambled pieces. Transfer the eggs to a plate for later and chop them into bite-sized bits.
Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp
Next, season the shrimp with salt and pepper and add them to the pan. Cook for about 3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque—be careful not to overcook as shrimp can get tough very fast. Once done, move them to your plate with the eggs and set aside.
Step 4: Build Flavor Base
Add the remaining butter and sesame oil to the pan. Toss in the scallion whites and fresh ginger; cook for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and softened. This foundation infuses the rice with that inviting, aromatic flavor you expect from great fried rice dishes.
Step 5: Fry the Rice
Add the cold cooked rice to the pan, pouring the soy sauce evenly over it. Let the rice fry undisturbed for a minute or two to create those tasty crispy bits at the bottom before stirring. This step creates texture and spreads flavor throughout every grain.
Step 6: Add Vegetables and Combine
Mix in the frozen peas, carrots, and corn, cooking for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to warm them through without losing their snap. Finally, fold in the reserved eggs, shrimp, and scallion greens, stirring just until everything is heated through and evenly distributed. Your Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe is now perfectly assembled and ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Give your fried rice that extra pop with garnishes like toasted sesame seeds, a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro, or even thin slices of fresh red chili for a bit of heat. A drizzle of sriracha or hoisin sauce on top can also bring an exciting twist to the dish.
Side Dishes
This recipe holds its own as a hearty main, but if you’re looking to make it a part of a larger meal, consider serving it alongside steamed dumplings, a crisp cucumber salad, or some miso soup. These sides complement the flavors and add different textures and freshness to your table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun and festive presentation, try serving the fried rice in hollowed-out bell peppers or pineapple halves. These add color and a tropical vibe that brightens both the plate and the mood. Alternatively, small individual portions in mini bowls create a charming, personalized touch perfect for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your leftover shrimp fried rice to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Make sure the rice is fully cooled before sealing to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover fried rice in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags for up to 2 months. Because it contains seafood and vegetables, thawing slowly and reheating gently helps preserve the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your shrimp fried rice in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Stir frequently until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can lead to uneven heat and soggy rice.
FAQs
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen in the Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh peas, carrots, and corn can be used; just chop them small and sauté a bit longer to ensure they’re tender. Frozen veggies are convenient, but fresh can add a bit more crunch and vibrancy.
Is leftover rice necessary for this recipe?
Yes, day-old rice works best because it’s drier and less sticky, which helps create the perfect fried rice texture. If you only have freshly cooked rice, try spreading it out to cool completely before using it.
Can I substitute the shrimp for chicken or tofu?
Definitely! Chicken breast or thighs cut into small pieces or firm tofu can be great alternatives, cooked similarly to shrimp. Just adjust cooking times to avoid overcooking.
What type of soy sauce is best for this recipe?
A good-quality regular soy sauce works well. If you want a richer flavor, try a dark soy sauce, but use less salt elsewhere since it is quite salty. Low-sodium versions are fine for lighter tastes.
Can I add other seasonings to customize the recipe?
Yes! Garlic, chili flakes, or even a splash of fish sauce can add exciting layers of flavor. Just add these during the aromatic stage (with the ginger and scallion whites) for the best infusion.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe is a delightful combination of convenience, fresh ingredients, and bold flavor that will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to share with guests. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite comfort food!
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Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings
Description
This easy shrimp fried rice recipe is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal featuring tender shrimp, a mix of frozen veggies, and leftover rice stir-fried to perfection. Ready in 30 minutes, it combines the savory taste of soy sauce, fresh ginger, and scallions with fluffy scrambled eggs to create a satisfying and balanced dish.
Ingredients
Proteins and Dairy
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 2 large eggs
- 1 pound raw shrimp, cleaned and tails removed
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 bunch scallions, chopped and separated into greens and whites
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- 2 cups frozen peas, carrots, and corn mix
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 5 cups cold cooked white rice (or precooked vacuum-sealed rice)
- ¼ cup soy sauce
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Crack the eggs into a measuring cup and beat thoroughly. Chop all fresh produce including scallions and ginger. Clean and de-tail the shrimp to have everything ready before starting to cook.
- Cook the Eggs: Heat a large sauté pan or wok over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, pour in beaten eggs and scramble them by stirring continuously with a spatula until fully cooked. Transfer the cooked eggs to a holding plate and chop into small pieces with the spatula.
- Cook Shrimp: Add shrimp to the same pan, season liberally with salt and pepper, and stir-fry for about 3 minutes until they turn pink but remain tender and juicy. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside on the holding plate.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon sesame oil. Add the scallion whites and grated ginger, stir-frying for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Fry the Rice: Add the cold cooked rice into the pan with the aromatics. Pour soy sauce evenly over the rice and stir, allowing the rice to fry on the bottom of the pan for a minute or two before stirring again to develop texture and flavor.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the frozen peas, carrots, and corn mix. Continue stir-frying for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are heated through.
- Combine All Ingredients: Toss in the chopped scrambled eggs, cooked shrimp, and scallion greens. Stir-fry everything together for an additional 1-2 minutes until well combined and warmed through.
- Serve: Serve the shrimp fried rice hot on its own or with your favorite sauces and garnishes.
Notes
- Use cold, day-old rice for best texture and to prevent clumping.
- Do not overcook shrimp to maintain tenderness and juiciness.
- Adjust soy sauce quantity according to your preferred saltiness.
- Feel free to add other vegetables or proteins to customize the dish.
- Use a wok or large sauté pan for even cooking and easy stirring.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
