When it comes to quick and satisfying meals, 20-Minute Shrimp and Broccoli Lo Mein stands out as a go-to recipe in our household. Packed with flavor and ready in just twenty minutes, this dish brings together the delightful textures of tender shrimp, crunchy broccoli, and savory noodles. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that feels special yet is super easy to whip up. Let’s dive into this recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why It Works Every Time

This 20-Minute Shrimp and Broccoli Lo Mein recipe is a success for several reasons. The combination of fresh ingredients and a simple, flavorful sauce elevates the dish while keeping it light. The lo mein noodles absorb the savory elements of the sauce, making each bite an explosion of taste. Plus, using frozen vegetables like broccoli and red bell pepper not only saves time but also ensures you have these nutritious ingredients on hand whenever you need them. The best part? It’s all made in one pan, which means minimal cleanup!

Ingredient Rundown

To create this delightful 20-Minute Shrimp and Broccoli Lo Mein, you will need the following ingredients:

Lo mein noodles: 8 oz. package, found in the ethnic foods section of your grocery store.
Lime juice: Juice of 1 large lime, about 2 tablespoons, for a zesty kick.
Light brown sugar: 1 tablespoon, to balance the flavors with a hint of sweetness.
Soy sauce: 3 tablespoons, for that essential umami flavor.
Sriracha hot sauce: 2 tablespoons, to add a spicy twist.
Fresh grated ginger: 2 teaspoons, for a fragrant touch.
Sesame oil: 2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon, divided, to enhance the dish with a nutty flavor.
Unsalted butter: 1 tablespoon, for richness.
Crushed red pepper flakes: ½ teaspoon, for extra heat.
Large eggs: 2, lightly beaten, for added protein.
Medium shrimp: ½ pound, peeled and deveined, the star of the dish.
Frozen broccoli florets: 2 cups, not thawed, for convenience.
Frozen red bell pepper strips: 1 cup, not thawed, adding color and sweetness.
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced, for aromatic flavor.
Salt: To taste, if needed, but be cautious due to soy sauce’s saltiness.

Equipment at a Glance

Before you start whipping up this 20-Minute Shrimp and Broccoli Lo Mein, gather the following kitchen tools:

Large skillet or wok: For cooking everything in one pan.
Pot: To boil the lo mein noodles.
Measuring spoons: To ensure accuracy in your ingredients.
Spatula or tongs: For tossing everything together.
Knife and cutting board: For chopping garlic and preparing shrimp.

Directions: 20-Minute Shrimp and Broccoli Lo Mein

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your 20-Minute Shrimp and Broccoli Lo Mein:

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Begin by boiling water in a pot. Once boiling, add the lo mein noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, light brown sugar, soy sauce, Sriracha hot sauce, and fresh grated ginger. Set this sauce aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Eggs

Pour the beaten eggs into the skillet and stir gently until scrambled and fully cooked. Remove the eggs from the skillet and set aside.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Add the medium shrimp and sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.

Step 6: Add the Vegetables

Next, toss in the frozen broccoli florets and frozen red bell pepper strips directly from the freezer. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they are heated through and tender.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Add the cooked lo mein noodles and the prepared sauce to the skillet. Toss everything together over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until the noodles are well-coated and heated through. Finally, fold in the scrambled eggs.

Step 8: Taste and Adjust

Taste your 20-Minute Shrimp and Broccoli Lo Mein and adjust the seasoning with salt if necessary. Remember, the soy sauce is already salty, so go easy on the salt.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

If you find yourself missing an ingredient or want to customize your 20-Minute Shrimp and Broccoli Lo Mein, consider these swaps:

Noodles: Use spaghetti or rice noodles if lo mein is unavailable.
Shrimp: Swap for chicken, tofu, or beef for a different protein option.
Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute any vegetables you have on hand, like snap peas or carrots.
Sriracha: Replace with chili paste or omit if you prefer a milder dish.

Avoid These Traps

To ensure your 20-Minute Shrimp and Broccoli Lo Mein turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

Overcooking the shrimp: Cook until just pink; overcooked shrimp can become rubbery.
Not tasting the sauce: Always taste your sauce before adding salt, as it can easily become too salty.
Thawing vegetables: Using frozen vegetables without thawing helps them maintain their crunch and prevents them from becoming mushy.
Skipping the sesame oil: This ingredient adds vital flavor, so don’t skip it!

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

If you find you have leftovers (which is often the case because this dish is so delicious), here’s how to store your 20-Minute Shrimp and Broccoli Lo Mein:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to keep the noodles from drying out. If you want to freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

Handy Q&A

Can I use fresh shrimp instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh shrimp can be used in this recipe. Just ensure they are peeled and deveined before cooking.

What if I don’t have lo mein noodles?

If lo mein noodles are unavailable, you can use spaghetti or rice noodles as a substitute. Just be mindful of the cooking times.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the shrimp and using tofu instead. You can also add more vegetables for additional flavor and texture.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. You can reduce the amount of Sriracha or omit the crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder flavor.

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Bring It to the Table

Your 20-Minute Shrimp and Broccoli Lo Mein is now ready to be served! Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or for impressing guests at your next gathering. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma will have everyone excited to dig in!

This quick and easy recipe proves that you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen to serve up a delicious meal. With the right ingredients and a little bit of love, you can create a satisfying dish that warms the heart and pleases the palate. Enjoy your cooking adventure and the delightful flavors of this 20-Minute Shrimp and Broccoli Lo Mein!