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Easy Better-Than-Takeout Shrimp Fried Rice

Close-up of a white bowl filled with delicious shrimp fried rice recipe, featuring plump shrimp, scrambled egg, and green onions.

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Make this quick, flavorful shrimp fried rice in one skillet. It uses leftover rice and comes together in under 30 minutes, offering a satisfying, family-friendly dinner alternative to takeout.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
  • 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 4 cups cold, cooked leftover rice
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce, or to taste
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for depth)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 2 scallions, thinly sliced, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Pour the beaten eggs into the skillet. Scramble quickly until just set, then break them into small pieces with your spatula.
  4. Add the cold, leftover rice and the frozen peas and carrots to the skillet. Stir fry, breaking up any clumps of rice, for 3 to 5 minutes until the rice is heated through and slightly toasted.
  5. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Toss everything together quickly to coat evenly.
  6. Stir in the toasted sesame oil. Taste and adjust seasoning with more soy sauce if needed.
  7. Remove from heat. Garnish with sliced scallions before serving immediately.

Notes

  • Using cold, day-old rice is crucial for achieving the best texture in fried rice; fresh rice will become mushy.
  • For a healthier option, reduce the amount of oil used in the initial steps.
  • If you do not have oyster sauce, you can substitute with an extra teaspoon of soy sauce mixed with a pinch of sugar for balance.

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