Steak Shrimp Stir Fry: 30 Minute Marvel

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Steak Shrimp Stir Fry has become my go-to weeknight meal solution, and I think you’ll absolutely love it too! I still remember the first time I tried making it myself; I was aiming for that perfect balance of tender steak, plump shrimp, and crisp veggies, all coated in a savory sauce. It’s amazing how a few simple ingredients can come together so quickly. This easy steak shrimp stir fry is a lifesaver when you’re short on time but still want something incredibly flavorful and satisfying. Seriously, this quick steak and shrimp stir fry will have dinner on the table in about 30 minutes flat, filling your kitchen with the most mouthwatering aromas. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Steak Shrimp Stir Fry

This dish is a weeknight win for so many reasons:

Flavor Explosion: Tender steak and succulent shrimp meet crisp, colorful veggies in a mouthwatering savory sauce.
Lightning Quick: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Healthy Choice: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables for a nutritious meal.
Budget-Friendly: A fantastic way to enjoy surf and turf without breaking the bank.
Family Approved: Even picky eaters usually devour this flavorful stir fry.
Versatile Veggies: Easily customize your steak and shrimp stir fry with vegetables using your favorites like snap peas or mushrooms.
Satisfying Meal: This steak and shrimp stir fry with vegetables is hearty enough to be a standalone dinner.
Easy Cleanup: Typically all cooked in one pan, minimizing dishes!

Ingredients for Steak Shrimp Stir Fry

Gathering these ingredients is the first step to an amazing meal. For the marinade and sauce, which forms the base of our flavor, you’ll need 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option) and 2 tablespoons cornstarch to help thicken everything beautifully. The star proteins are 1 pound flank steak, sliced against the grain for tenderness, and 1 pound shrimp, whether fresh or frozen. For the vibrant veggies, grab 1 cup bell pepper (any color works!), 2 cups broccoli florets, and 1 medium carrot, julienned. Don’t forget the aromatics: 3 cloves garlic, minced and 1 tablespoon ginger, minced. Finally, for garnish, have 1 cup green onions, chopped and 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, plus a little vegetable oil for cooking. This combination makes for a truly delicious steak and shrimp stir fry sauce.

How to Make Steak Shrimp Stir Fry

Step 1: First, let’s get our ingredients ready for this amazing steak and shrimp stir fry. In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup soy sauce and 2 tablespoons cornstarch. This mixture will create our flavorful sauce and help thicken it up. Add your sliced 1 pound flank steak and 1 pound shrimp to the bowl, making sure everything is well-coated. Let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes while you prep your veggies.
Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. You want it nice and hot! Carefully add the marinated steak in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side until beautifully browned. This high heat is key to a great sear. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Add another tablespoon of oil to the skillet if it looks dry. Toss in the marinated shrimp and cook for just 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. It’s important not to overcook the shrimp. Remove them from the skillet and place them with the cooked steak.
Step 4: Now for the veggies! Add the 1 cup bell pepper, 2 cups broccoli florets, and 1 medium carrot, julienned to the hot skillet. Stir-fry them for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp. You want them to still have a nice bite to them. This is a crucial part of how to cook steak and shrimp stir fry for the best texture.
Step 5: Add the 3 cloves minced garlic and 1 tablespoon minced ginger to the skillet. Stir constantly for about 1 minute until they become fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Step 6: Return the cooked steak and shrimp to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss everything together for about 1 minute, just to heat through and allow the flavors to meld. Season with a little salt and pepper to taste. You’ve almost mastered how to make steak shrimp stir fry!
Step 7: Serve your delicious steak and shrimp stir fry immediately. Garnish generously with the 1 cup chopped green onions and 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for that perfect finishing touch. This is how you achieve a truly fantastic steak shrimp stir fry!

Pro Tips for the Best Steak Shrimp Stir Fry

Want to elevate your stir fry game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference:

Always slice your flank steak against the grain. This breaks down the tough muscle fibers, ensuring maximum tenderness.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the steak and shrimp. Cook them in batches if needed to ensure they sear rather than steam.
Prep all your ingredients before you start cooking. Stir-frying happens fast, so having everything chopped and ready is essential.
Use high heat! This is crucial for getting that nice sear on your steak and perfectly cooked veggies.

What’s the secret to perfect Steak Shrimp Stir Fry?

The magic is in the high heat and proper prep! Getting your pan smoking hot before adding the food creates a beautiful sear, contributing to that irresistible sizzling steak shrimp stir fry experience. Also, marinating the steak and shrimp ensures they absorb all that delicious flavor. For more tips on cooking techniques, check out this guide on how to cook.

Can I make Steak Shrimp Stir Fry ahead of time?

You can definitely prep ingredients ahead! Slice the steak, chop the veggies, and mix the marinade. However, it’s best to marinate the steak and shrimp for only about 20-30 minutes before cooking. Cooking the components fresh ensures the best texture and flavor.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Steak Shrimp Stir Fry?

A common issue is ending up with a mushy stir fry. To prevent your steak shrimp stir fry from becoming mushy, avoid overcrowding the pan, which causes ingredients to steam instead of sear. Also, don’t overcook the shrimp; they cook very quickly! Learn more about preventing common cooking mistakes here.

Best Ways to Serve Steak Shrimp Stir Fry

This versatile dish is wonderful on its own, but it truly shines when paired with the right accompaniments. For a classic experience, serve this Asian steak shrimp stir fry over a bed of fluffy steamed white or brown rice. If you’re looking for something a bit different, try it with lo mein noodles or even quinoa. For a more complete meal, consider adding a side of steamed edamame or a light cucumber salad. The vibrant flavors of this steak and shrimp stir fry also pair wonderfully with a simple egg drop soup.

Nutrition Facts for Steak Shrimp Stir Fry

When you make this delicious steak shrimp stir fry, you’re getting a meal that’s both satisfying and relatively healthy. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving, based on the recipe’s ingredients and proportions:

Calories: 450 kcal
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Protein: 40 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fiber: 5 g
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 900 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, such as the type of soy sauce or oil.

How to Store and Reheat Steak Shrimp Stir Fry

Storing and reheating this delicious steak shrimp stir fry is simple and helps you enjoy its goodness later. Once cooked, let the stir fry cool down for about an hour before transferring it to airtight containers. It should keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Freezing is a great way to have a quick, healthy steak shrimp stir fry ready whenever you need it, preserving nutrients effectively. For reheating, the best method is on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring halfway through for even heating. Avoid reheating more than once.

Frequently Asked Questions About Steak Shrimp Stir Fry

What is Steak Shrimp Stir Fry?

Steak shrimp stir fry is a dynamic Asian-inspired dish that combines tender strips of beef steak and succulent shrimp with a colorful medley of crisp vegetables, all tossed in a savory, flavorful sauce. It’s a popular choice for a quick and satisfying meal, often featuring ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch for thickening.

Can I substitute beef for shrimp in a steak and shrimp stir fry?

While this recipe focuses on steak and shrimp, you can certainly adapt it! If you’re looking for a beef and shrimp stir fry, you’re already on the right track. If you prefer to omit the shrimp, you can simply increase the amount of steak or add other proteins like chicken or tofu. Conversely, if you want a shrimp-focused dish without steak, a shrimp and vegetable stir fry is delicious on its own.

Why is my steak shrimp stir fry mushy?

The most common reason for a mushy stir fry, especially with ingredients like steak and shrimp, is overcrowding the pan. When you add too much at once, the ingredients steam instead of searing, leading to a softer texture. Also, overcooking the shrimp can make them rubbery and unpleasant. Ensure you cook in batches and maintain high heat for that perfect crisp-tender result in your steak shrimp stir fry.

What are good side dishes for steak and shrimp stir fry?

This steak and shrimp stir fry is incredibly versatile! It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice (white, brown, or jasmine) or noodles like lo mein or udon. For lighter options, consider a simple cucumber salad, steamed edamame, or even a light miso soup. The goal is to complement the rich flavors of the stir fry without overpowering them.

Variations of Steak Shrimp Stir Fry You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic steak shrimp stir fry, don’t be afraid to get creative! There are so many delicious ways to switch up this fantastic stir fry recipe with steak and shrimp. For a gluten-free option, simply swap the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos, and ensure your cornstarch is also gluten-free. Craving a kick? Turn up the heat with a spicy steak shrimp stir fry by adding red pepper flakes or a swirl of sriracha to the sauce. If you prefer a sweeter profile, a teriyaki steak shrimp stir fry is always a winner – just add a little brown sugar and mirin to your sauce base. You can also experiment with different vegetables like snow peas, baby corn, or water chestnuts to keep things interesting!