1-First step: Prep everything before the pan heats up

Start by getting all your ingredients ready. Slice the white onion into half moons, mince the garlic, and make sure the shrimp is fully defrosted and patted dry. Dry shrimp cooks better and browns more nicely in the skillet.

It also helps to have the broccoli measured out before you begin. Since stir fry moves fast, this little bit of prep keeps the cooking smooth. If you want to serve it with rice or noodles, get those going now too.

2-Second step: Cook the onion in olive oil

Place a large skillet or wok over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is warm, add the sliced onion. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until the onion starts to soften and turn slightly translucent.

This step builds the base flavor for the entire dish. The onion adds a sweet, mellow taste that balances the savory sauce later on. If you like a softer vegetable texture, let the onion cook a little longer before moving on.

3-Third step: Add the garlic and broccoli

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful here, because garlic can burn quickly. Right after that, add the broccoli florets and give everything a good toss.

If your broccoli is on the larger side, you can cut the florets smaller so they cook evenly. For a more tender result, add a tablespoon or two of water and cover the pan for 1 to 2 minutes. That helps steam the broccoli without making it soggy.

4-Fourth step: Add the shrimp and seasonings

Once the broccoli starts to turn bright green, add the defrosted shrimp with tails on. Sprinkle in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and a shake of red pepper flakes. Stir everything together so the shrimp gets coated in the sauce.

Cook the shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, depending on size, until it turns pink and opaque. Shrimp cooks fast, so keep an eye on it. If you are using smaller shrimp, they may be done even sooner.

5-Fifth step: Finish the stir fry

When the shrimp is cooked through and the broccoli is tender-crisp, taste the dish and adjust if needed. If you want more savory flavor, add a tiny splash more soy sauce. If you like more heat, add another pinch of red pepper flakes.

This is also a good time to decide how you want to serve it. You can keep this easy shrimp broccoli stir fry light and simple on its own, or spoon it over rice for a fuller meal. The sauce should lightly coat everything without pooling in the pan.

6-Final step: Serve right away

Turn off the heat and transfer the stir fry to plates or a serving bowl. Serve it hot while the shrimp is tender and the broccoli still has a little bite. For a family-style dinner, place it in the center of the table and let everyone build their own plate.