20 Minute Shrimp Stir Fry
Quick and flavorful, this 20 Minute Shrimp Stir Fry is perfect for lazy mom dinners — healthy, ready in 20 minutes, and packed with fresh veggies.
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If you’re a busy parent searching for lazy mom dinners that still taste gourmet, this 20-Minute Shrimp Stir Fry is about to become your new go-to. It cooks in minutes yet bursts with bright veggies, tender shrimp, and fresh, vibrant flavor. Because the recipe is so simple, it’s perfect for hectic weeknights when you want something wholesome but don’t have time for complicated prep.
To make this dish even easier, I love using pre-cleaned frozen jumbo shrimp, which thaw quickly and cut your prep time in half. A nonstick carbon steel wok also helps the vegetables sear perfectly without sticking, giving that restaurant-quality finish with minimal effort. And if you like your stir-fry sauce ultra smooth, a mini electric whisk blends everything together in seconds for a silky texture.
Since this is essentially a 15-minute dump-and-go dinner, you can prep the ingredients ahead or toss everything together right after work. That means less stress in the kitchen and more time enjoying a nutritious, satisfying meal with your family.
The Story Behind This Dish
Lazy mom dinners help you feed your family without stress. They save time while still providing a wholesome meal.
Shrimp cooks quickly, so it’s ideal for fast dinners. Meanwhile, vegetables stay crisp and colorful. Plus, the simple sauce brings all the flavors together. Therefore, even a busy evening feels like a home-cooked meal.
Furthermore, the sauce comes together in seconds, adding a delicious, savory coating that brings everything together effortlessly.
Tips and Kitchen Hacks
- Use frozen pre-cut veggies to save prep time.
- If shrimp cooks faster than veggies, remove and set aside, then return at the end.
- Add a splash of lime juice or chili flakes for extra zing.
- Sesame seeds toasted for 1–2 minutes add a nutty flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This shrimp stir fry is:
- Fast and effortless — ready in just 20 minutes.
- Healthy — packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables.
- Family-friendly — mild, balanced flavors kids enjoy.
- Flexible — swap veggies or add your favorite sauce.
- Minimal cleanup — one skillet, one spatula, done.
20 Minute Shrimp Stir Fry
Course: MainCuisine: asianDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes10
minutes300
kcalFresh shrimp and colorful vegetables tossed in a simple soy-ginger sauce, creating a vibrant and healthy stir fry — perfect for lazy mom dinners.
Ingredients
1 lb raw pre-cleaned large shrimp
2 cups broccoli florets
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 medium carrot, julienned
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thicker sauce)
1 tbsp olive oil
Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
Sesame seeds and green onions, for garnish
Directions
- First, wash and cut all the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Then, pat shrimp dry with paper towels. This ensures even cooking and prevents excess water in the stir fry.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender.
- Next, add garlic and ginger. Stir constantly for 30 seconds to release their aroma without burning.
- Push the vegetables to the sides and add shrimp to the center of the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque.
- Drizzle soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil over the vegetables and shrimp. If using, add the cornstarch-water mixture to thicken slightly. Stir everything together until well coated.
- Serve the stir fry over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a fresh, restaurant-style finish.
Recipe Video
- This 20 Minute Shrimp Stir Fry is the perfect lazy mom dinner because it’s fast, nutritious, and delicious. Even with busy schedules, you can serve a homemade, family-approved meal that feels indulgent but comes together in no time.
Variations
Use chicken or tofu instead of shrimp. Swap veggies based on what’s in your fridge.
Final Thoughts
This 20 Minute Shrimp Stir Fry is the perfect lazy mom dinner because it’s fast, nutritious, and delicious. Even with busy schedules, you can serve a homemade, family-approved meal that feels indulgent but comes together in no time.Try this recipe tonight! Comment below with your favorite lazy mom dinner hacks.
