High-Protein Steak and Shrimp Stir-Fry

By Emily Cookson | July 10, 2025 | No comments

High-Protein Steak and Shrimp Stir-Fry

I created this High-Protein Steak and Shrimp Stir-Fry to combine ease of preparation with the rich flavors of tender steak and succulent shrimp, ensuring a delicious and hassle-free dining experience. 

My journey with High-Protein Steak and Shrimp Stir-Fry started on a warm summer evening, inspired by my family’s love for vibrant flavors and quick meals. I needed a dish that packed a nutritional punch yet was easy on the wallet and quick on prep time. 

With this recipe, I stumbled upon the perfect blend of hearty steak and shrimp that can be whipped up effortlessly, providing an ideal solution for busy weeknights. Not only is it healthy and satisfying, but it also brings a touch of gourmet flair without the need for an elaborate skill set, making it perfect for anyone looking to impress with minimal effort. 

Why You’ll Love High-Protein Steak and Shrimp Stir-Fry?

  • Expertly Simple: This dish is a testament to the magic of simplicity. Using straightforward cooking techniques, even novice chefs can achieve a dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare.
  • Rich Flavor Profile: By combining the umami of steak with the delicate sweetness of shrimp, this recipe delivers a flavor-packed punch with every bite. The addition of fresh veggies and a tangy sauce elevates it beyond ordinary stir-fries.
  • Consistency is Key: Tried and tested methods ensure that each time you cook, you’re guaranteed consistent, mouth-watering results that delight the palate and leave a lasting impression.
  • Health-Driven Delight: High in protein and loaded with nutrients, this dish supports a balanced diet without compromising on taste, fueling your day with energy and satisfaction.
  • All Skill Levels Welcome: Designed for versatility, this recipe is a perfect gateway for beginners while offering ample room for more experienced cooks to customize and innovate.

“The beauty of this stir-fry lies in its ability to impress anyone who tries it, without requiring a gourmet-level chef in the kitchen.”

High-Protein Steak and Shrimp Stir-Fry (3)

Ingredients Notes

  • Flank steak: I choose marbled for tenderness; quick cooking preserves juiciness.
  • Frozen medium shrimp: Ensure they are raw, peeled, deveined; thaw thoroughly for best results.
  • Jasmine ready rice: A nutty aroma complements stir-fry’s bold flavors perfectly.
  • Olive oil: I use high-quality for cooking; maintains subtle flavor and prevents sticking.
  • Coconut aminos: Offers a soy-free umami boost; control saltiness masterfully.
  • Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy depth, enhancing overall flavor profile.
  • Stir-fry broccoli: Select for vibrant color and slight crunch, balancing textures.
  • Green onions: Freshness elevates the dish, subtly integrating flavor throughout.
  • Steak marinade – Coconut aminos: This liquid flavor enhancer tenderizes brilliantly.
  • Toasted sesame oil: Enhances nutty complexity; use sparingly for richness.
  • Ground ginger: Adds warmth and mild spiciness, crucial for Asian-inspired profiles.
  • Garlic powder: Evenly distributes savory notes, marries with ginger seamlessly.
  • Lime juice: Brightens ingredients; its acidity balances the dish splendidly.

How to Make High-Protein Steak and Shrimp Stir-Fry?

High-Protein Steak and Shrimp Stir-Fry (4)
  • Start with the marinade by mixing 1/2 cup coconut aminos, 1 tbsp. toasted sesame oil, 1 tsp. ground ginger, and 1 tsp. garlic powder in a bowl. Add the juice of 1 lime to the mixture for a bright, zesty flavor. Place your 1.5 lbs. flank steak into the marinade, ensuring every piece is well-coated, and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. This step infuses the steak with depth and tenderness. 
  • While the steak is marinating, thaw 1 lb. of frozen medium shrimp completely. It’s important they’re raw, peeled, deveined, and tails removed for a seamless cooking experience. 
  • Heat 1 tsp. olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated flank steak slices and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until you notice a brown crust forming—a sign of a perfect sear. 
  • Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, approximately 2-3 minutes. 
  • Next, pour in 1/3 cup coconut aminos and 1 tbsp. Dijon mustard to the pan and give it a good stir. The aroma should be inviting as it fills the room, enhancing the sensory appeal of your dish. 
  • Add 1 package of stir-fry broccoli to the same skillet used for the steak and shrimp. Stir everything together, allowing the broccoli to absorb the flavorful juices while retaining a slight crunch. 
  • Cook 1 package of Ben’s Original Jasmine Ready Rice according to package instructions. Its nutty aroma will perfectly complement the savory, umami-rich components of your stir-fry. 
  • Combine the steak, shrimp, and broccoli in the skillet, ensuring all components are evenly coated with the sauce. Garnish with 3 green onions for a pop of color and a touch of mild onion flavor. 

Serve hot and enjoy the symphony of textures and flavors in your homemade High-Protein Steak and Shrimp Stir-Fry! 

Expert Cooking Tips

  • Always use fresh jumbo shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Avoid pre-cooked ones as they can become rubbery if overcooked.
  • Slice steak thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness and even cooking. I ensure every piece is about the same thickness.
  • Marinate the protein for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor. I use a soy sauce and garlic combo to infuse depth.
  • Heat oil in the pan until it shimmers to achieve a perfect sear on steak and shrimp without burning.
  • Utilize a wok or a large frying pan to give the ingredients plenty of space to cook properly without steaming.
  • Add veggies last to keep them crisp and vibrant. I favor a quick stir-fry to maintain their color and crunch.
  • Deglaze the pan with a splash of broth after searing for additional sauce flavor complexity.

Storage Tips

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring it’s at or below 40°F to keep fresh.
  • For freezing, place in a freezer-safe bag, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn, and store for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave at medium power to maintain texture without overcooking.
  • Add a splash of water or broth while reheating to revive the stir-fry’s moisture and prevent it from drying out.
  • Divide the stir-fry into single-serving portions before freezing for quick, evenly reheated meals.
  • Ensure shrimp is thoroughly reheated to an internal temperature of 145°F for safety.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Swap beef for chicken or tofu for a lighter, poultry-based or vegetarian option; both maintain protein content with altered flavors.
  • Substitute soy sauce for tamari to make the recipe gluten-free while retaining that umami punch.
  • For a nutty twist, add a tablespoon of sesame paste or peanut butter to the sauce for heightened depth and a creamy texture.
  • Make it dairy-free by replacing butter with a plant-based version without losing the recipe’s buttery highlights.
  • Add fresh pineapple chunks for a fruity variation, balancing sweet with savory components elegantly in the dish.
High-Protein Steak and Shrimp Stir-Fry (5)

What to Serve with High-Protein Steak and Shrimp Stir-Fry?

  • Steamed Jasmine Rice: Complements the stir-fry with its mild, floral flavor, absorbing sauces without overpowering.
  • Quinoa: Offers an additional protein boost and a light, nutty texture that pairs elegantly with the savory stir-fry.
  • Ginger-Garlic Sautéed Green Beans: Provides crisp freshness and a spicy kick, enhancing the dish’s aromatic profile.
  • Spicy Kimchi: Lends tangy heat, adding complexity while balancing the sweetness in the stir-fry.
  • Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their caramelized earthiness counters the stir-fry’s rich umami notes, adding a satisfying crunch.
  • Asian Cucumber Salad: Delivers refreshing crunch and acidity, cutting through the savory richness with its light, cooling effect.
  • Miso Soup: Complements with subtle savory depth, offering a soothing broth to contrast the dish’s texture and flavors.
  • Sweet Potato Mash: Combines sweet silkiness that complements the stir-fry’s complex flavors, providing a different textural dimension.
  • Sesame Slaw: Provides a nutty, crunchy component with cabbage and carrots, refreshingly balancing the main dish’s robust flavors.

FAQs

How to prevent soggy veggies?

High heat cooking prevents moisture build-up. Use a hot pan and quick stir-fry techniques.

Can I adjust sweetness in the sauce?

Yes, control with brown sugar adjustments. Balance with more vinegar for tanginess.

How to keep steak tender?

Slice thinly against the grain. Brief, high-heat cooking maintains tenderness.

Is shrimp overcooking a concern?

Cook shrimp until pink and opaque, usually 2-3 minutes per side to avoid toughness.

What if the sauce is too thick?

Thin with water or broth, adding gradually until desired consistency is reached.

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High-Protein Steak and Shrimp Stir-Fry

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Craving a protein-packed meal? Discover how to make a sizzling steak and shrimp stir-fry that’s both delicious and nutritious. 

  • Author: Emily Cookson
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stir-Fry
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, Fusion

Ingredients

  • 1.5 pounds of flank steak
  • 1 pound of frozen medium shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tail-off
  • 8.5-ounce package of jasmine ready rice
  • 1 teaspoon of olive oil for cooking
  • 1/3 cup of coconut aminos
  • 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
  • 12-ounce package of stir-fry broccoli
  • 3 green onions, chopped
  • 1/2 cup of coconut aminos for marinade
  • 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon of ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

  • Start with the marinade by mixing 1/2 cup coconut aminos, 1 tbsp. toasted sesame oil, 1 tsp. ground ginger, and 1 tsp. garlic powder in a bowl. Add the juice of 1 lime to the mixture for a bright, zesty flavor.
  • Place your 1.5 lbs. flank steak into the marinade, ensuring every piece is well-coated, and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. This step infuses the steak with depth and tenderness.
  • While the steak is marinating, thaw 1 lb. of frozen medium shrimp completely. It’s important they’re raw, peeled, deveined, and tails removed for a seamless cooking experience.
  • Heat 1 tsp. olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated flank steak slices and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until you notice a brown crust forming—a sign of a perfect sear.
  • Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, approximately 2-3 minutes.
  • Next, pour in 1/3 cup coconut aminos and 1 tbsp. Dijon mustard to the pan and give it a good stir. The aroma should be inviting as it fills the room, enhancing the sensory appeal of your dish.
  • Add 1 package of stir-fry broccoli to the same skillet used for the steak and shrimp. Stir everything together, allowing the broccoli to absorb the flavorful juices while retaining a slight crunch.
  • Cook 1 package of Ben’s Original jasmine ready rice according to package instructions. Its nutty aroma will perfectly complement the savory, umami-rich components of your stir-fry.
  • Combine the steak, shrimp, and broccoli in the skillet, ensuring all components are evenly coated with the sauce. Garnish with 3 green onions for a pop of color and a touch of mild onion flavor.

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About the author

Holly Nilsson is the creator of Spend With Pennies, where she creates easy, comforting recipes made for real life. With a passion for nostalgic flavors and simplified techniques, Holly helps busy home cooks create delicious meals that always work. She is also the author of “Everyday Comfort,” which promises to inspire even more hearty, home-cooked meals.

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