Shrimp and Egg Stir-Fry

This shrimp and egg stir-fry transforms ordinary ingredients into a protein-packed meal that's on the table in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying without the fuss.

I first made this dish when I needed a quick dinner after a long workday. What started as a simple pantry cleanout has become one of my most requested quick meals. The silky eggs paired with tender shrimp create a comfort food that feels indulgent despite its simplicity.

Ingredients

• Eggs: Large eggs provide the creamy base for this dish. Look for pasture-raised for best flavor
• Milk: Creates silkier scrambled eggs. Use whole milk for richness
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors. Choose kosher salt for better control
• Black pepper: Adds gentle heat. Freshly ground offers the most pronounced flavor
• Vegetable oil: Provides a neutral base for cooking. Any neutral oil works well
• Shrimp: The star protein. Select fresh or properly thawed frozen shrimp
• Garlic: Provides aromatic depth. Choose firm bulbs with tight skin
• Green onions: Add fresh flavor and color. Select bright, firm stalks without wilting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the egg mixture:

Whisk eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until fully combined but not overly frothy. The milk creates silkier scrambled eggs while the seasoning infuses throughout. Whisk just until you no longer see streaks of egg white.

Cook the shrimp:

Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat until it shimmers but doesn't smoke. Add shrimp in a single layer allowing them space to cook evenly. Cook until they turn pink and curl slightly, about 2-3 minutes total, flipping halfway through. Be careful not to overcook as they'll become rubbery.

Set shrimp aside:

Remove cooked shrimp to a clean plate, keeping any residual oil and juices in the pan. These flavorful bits will season your eggs beautifully. Work quickly as the remaining steps come together fast.

Sauté the garlic:

Add minced garlic to the same pan and cook for just 30 seconds, stirring constantly. The garlic should become fragrant but not brown, which would make it bitter. This brief cooking releases the aromatic oils.

Cook the eggs:

Pour the egg mixture into the garlic-infused pan. Let it set slightly for about 20 seconds then use a spatula to gently pull the eggs from the edges toward the center, creating large soft curds. Continue this motion until eggs are mostly set but still slightly glossy, about 2 minutes total.

Combine and finish:

Return the shrimp to the pan while eggs are still slightly soft. Gently fold everything together allowing the residual heat to finish cooking the eggs without making them dry. The eggs should remain soft and creamy.

Garnish and serve:

Sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top just before serving. Their bright color and fresh flavor balance the rich eggs and savory shrimp. Serve immediately while piping hot.

Pin it

The minced garlic is truly my secret weapon in this recipe. I learned from my grandmother that allowing it to bloom in the oil before adding the eggs infuses the entire dish with an incredible depth of flavor that elevates these simple ingredients. She always said good cooking doesn't need to be complicated, it just needs attention to these small but crucial details.

Make-Ahead Options

This dish is best enjoyed fresh but you can prep components ahead of time. Clean and devein shrimp up to a day in advance, storing them covered in the refrigerator. You can also chop garlic and green onions and store them separately in airtight containers. The egg mixture can be whisked together and refrigerated for up to 8 hours before cooking. Having these components ready makes this already quick meal even faster to prepare when hunger strikes.

Tasty Variations

Turn this simple stir-fry into countless different meals by adding your own twist. For an Asian-inspired version, add a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil at the end. For something Mediterranean, fold in some crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley. Spice lovers can add a diced jalapeño or a dash of red pepper flakes with the garlic. I particularly love adding thinly sliced bell peppers or baby spinach that wilts perfectly into the warm eggs for added nutrition and color.

Pin it

Serving Suggestions

This versatile dish works beautifully across all mealtimes. For breakfast, serve it with toasted sourdough or English muffins. For lunch, pair it with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. For dinner, serve over steamed rice or with sautéed vegetables for a complete meal. I especially love serving this family-style straight from the pan for casual gatherings where everyone can help themselves. The bright colors make for an impressive presentation despite the minimal effort required.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this stir-fry?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp, but add them during the final steps to prevent overcooking.

→ What kind of oil works best here?

Vegetable oil works perfectly, but you can also use canola oil or peanut oil for a richer flavor.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for a spicy kick.

→ Can I substitute green onions with another ingredient?

Chopped chives or thinly sliced regular onions can be used as substitutes for green onions.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to maintain texture.