This easy shrimp and steak fried rice is a delicious mix of tender shrimp, juicy steak, and colorful veggies, all stir-fried with fluffy rice. It’s quick to make and full of flavor!
It’s like a party in a bowl! I love how I can use leftovers for this dish, so nothing goes to waste. Plus, when that soy sauce hits the skillet, my kitchen smells amazing! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: Day-old rice is best because it’s drier and won’t clump. If you don’t have day-old rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool and dry out before using it. Brown rice can also work, adding a nuttier flavor.
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp can be used. If allergic, try chicken or tofu as a substitute. I often go for shrimp with the shells on; they add more flavor when cooking, but it’s just a personal choice!
Steak: Sirloin or ribeye is great, but you can swap out for chicken, pork, or even tempeh for vegetarian options. For a richer flavor, marinate the steak briefly in soy sauce and garlic.
Oils: Vegetable oil works well for high heat, but you can use canola or peanut oil for a bit more flavor. Avoid olive oil for high-heat cooking since it can burn easily.
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Shrimp and Steak?
Cooking shrimp and steak just right can be tricky! First, make sure your skillet is hot for a good sear which locks in juices. Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed.
- For the steak, aim for a 2-3 minute cook time on each side. It should be browned on the outside, but still slightly pink inside for tenderness.
- Shrimp cooks quickly! Keep an eye on it—once it turns bright pink and opaque, it’s done. Overcooking makes it tough.
After cooking, let the meat rest outside the pan so the juices remain. Incorporating them back into the rice will keep everything moist and flavorful!
Easy Shrimp and Steak Fried Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cooked and chilled white rice (preferably day-old)
- 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (scallions), plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 small onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: sliced chili or chili sauce for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10-15 minutes of prep time and another 15-20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 30-35 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Steak:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the steak cubes and season lightly with salt and pepper. Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned but still tender. Once cooked, remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Toss in the shrimp, cooking them for about 1-2 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. Once done, remove the shrimp and set aside with the steak.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
Now, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until fragrant and the onions become translucent, about 2 minutes. You’ll love the aroma filling your kitchen!
4. Scramble the Eggs:
Push the onion and garlic mixture to one side of the pan. Pour the beaten eggs on the other side. Gently scramble the eggs until they are just set, being careful not to overcook them.
5. Stir-Fry the Rice:
Add the chilled rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Stir-fry the rice with the eggs and vegetables for about 2-3 minutes, until everything is well mixed and heated through.
6. Combine It All:
Return the cooked steak and shrimp to the pan. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Mix thoroughly so that every grain of rice is beautifully coated and heated. Let it all simmer together for another minute.
7. Final Touch:
Stir in the chopped green onions and cook for another minute. Taste your fried rice and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or more soy sauce if needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your shrimp and steak fried rice hot, garnished with extra green onions and sliced chili or a side of chili sauce if you like a little heat. Enjoy your meal!
Bon appétit! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp and Steak?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp and steak completely first. The best way to thaw shrimp is overnight in the fridge, while steak can be thawed in the fridge or using the quick method of placing the sealed bag in cold water.
How Do I Store Leftover Fried Rice?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry to help steam it back to life!
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or carrots. Just ensure they are cut into small pieces for even cooking and add them right after you sauté the onion and garlic.
What If I Don’t Have Soy Sauce?
If you’re out of soy sauce, you can substitute with coconut aminos or tamari for a gluten-free option. If you want a different flavor, a splash of teriyaki sauce can also work, just adjust the amount to avoid overpowering the dish.
