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Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry with Peppers & Onions

Some meals come together so effortlessly, you almost don’t expect them to taste this good. This garlic shrimp stir-fry is exactly that kind of recipe—simple, fast, and packed with fresh, vibrant flavor.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound 450g medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tablespoons butter or margarine
  • 1 cup sweet red bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 1 cup onion red or white, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ cup chicken broth
  • 3 tablespoons green onions chopped
  • Optional:
  • 2 cups fresh snow peas for extra crunch

Method
 

  1. Start by preparing your rice or preferred base, as the stir-fry itself comes together quickly.
  2. In a large skillet set over medium heat, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Let it cook gently for a minute or two until fragrant—be careful not to let it brown.
  3. Add the shrimp to the pan along with the sliced peppers, onions, and snow peas if using. Sprinkle in the dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for about 4–5 minutes, tossing frequently, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque and the vegetables are just tender but still slightly crisp.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer briefly for another minute. This helps bring everything together while creating a light, flavorful coating.
  5. Finish by tossing in the green onions, then remove from heat.
  6. Serve immediately over warm rice, spooning any extra juices from the pan over the top

Notes

Shrimp cook very quickly, so keep an eye on them. As soon as they turn pink and curl slightly, they’re ready—overcooking can make them rubbery.
If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil works beautifully here.
You can swap the butter for olive oil if you prefer a lighter version, though the butter does add a richer flavor.