Irresistible Honey Garlic Shrimp with Broccoli: Your Ultimate 30-Minute Weeknight Meal
Craving a meal that’s both incredibly delicious and unbelievably quick to prepare? Look no further than this delightful Honey Garlic Shrimp with Broccoli! This recipe promises a burst of sweet, savory, and subtly spicy flavors, all coming together in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you want something homemade and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Shrimp, with its rapid cooking time and ability to absorb flavors beautifully, is a true hero for speedy dinners. When paired with crisp-tender broccoli and a luscious, homemade honey garlic sauce, it transforms into a culinary masterpiece that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Forget takeout – this stir-fry delivers restaurant-quality taste right to your dining table.
If you’re a fan of lightning-fast shrimp creations, be sure to explore more of our favorites: Lemon Garlic Shrimp, Shrimp Tacos, or this fantastic One-Pan Garlic Herb Shrimp and Sausage Recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe
This isn’t just another shrimp recipe; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. Here’s why this Honey Garlic Shrimp will quickly become a household favorite:
- Effortlessly Fast: When we say 30 minutes or less, we mean it! Shrimp cooks in mere minutes, and our clever method for steaming broccoli in the microwave shaves off even more time. This makes it ideal for hectic evenings when you need a quick, satisfying dinner on the table.
- Bursting with Flavor: The secret lies in our incredibly potent five-ingredient stir-fry sauce. It perfectly balances the natural sweetness of honey with the robust umami of soy sauce, a hint of nutty sesame oil, and a pleasant kick from Sriracha. Every bite is a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and a touch of spice.
- Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with lean protein from the shrimp and a generous serving of fiber-rich broccoli and other fresh vegetables, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious. It’s a wholesome meal that supports a balanced diet without compromising on taste.
- Incredibly Versatile: While broccoli and onions are fantastic in this stir-fry, the recipe is highly adaptable. Feel free to incorporate any vegetables you have on hand, or even add other proteins for a different spin. It’s a great way to use up lingering ingredients in your fridge.
- Family-Friendly Appeal: The combination of sweet honey and savory garlic is universally loved, making this a hit with both adults and children. You can easily adjust the Sriracha level to suit different spice preferences within your family.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Honey Garlic Shrimp
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, utilizing fresh, high-quality ingredients that truly shine. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to create this amazing stir-fry:
The Star: Shrimp
- Selection: Whether you choose fresh or frozen shrimp, ensure it’s of good quality. If using frozen, always thaw it completely under cold running water or overnight in the refrigerator to maintain its delicate texture.
- Preparation is Key: To save precious time, opt for shrimp that is already shelled, peeled, and deveined. This eliminates a significant step in the cooking process.
- Size Matters: Large or extra-large shrimp work best for this recipe. Look for counts per pound like 26/30 (meaning 26 to 30 shrimp per pound) or U15 (under 15 per pound). Larger shrimp are less likely to overcook quickly and offer a more satisfying bite.
- Pat Them Dry: Before cooking, it’s crucial to thoroughly pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can steam the shrimp instead of searing it, preventing that desirable golden-brown crust and hindering flavor development.
Fresh Vegetables
- Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are essential for a vibrant color and crisp-tender texture. Chop them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy eating. Broccoli not only adds nutritional value but also a pleasant crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender shrimp.
- Yellow Onion: Thinly sliced yellow onion adds a foundational sweetness and aromatic depth to the stir-fry. As it cooks, it caramelizes slightly, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Fresh Ginger: Minced fresh ginger provides a warm, zesty, and slightly pungent flavor that is characteristic of many Asian-inspired dishes. It pairs wonderfully with garlic and honey, uplifting the entire sauce.
- Fresh Garlic: An absolute must for its pungent, aromatic qualities. Minced fresh garlic infuses the dish with robust flavor, complementing the honey and soy sauce.
The Irresistible Honey Garlic Sauce
This quick stir-fry sauce is the heart of the dish, boasting a powerful flavor punch with just a few key ingredients:
- Cornstarch: This acts as our thickening agent, giving the sauce a glossy, velvety consistency that clings perfectly to the shrimp and vegetables. It’s vital for achieving that classic stir-fry texture.
- Soy Sauce: Use regular soy sauce (not reduced-sodium) for the best flavor balance and salinity. It provides the essential umami depth and a foundational savory note. For gluten-free alternatives, tamari is an excellent substitute.
- Toasted Sesame Oil: This ingredient is a game-changer for authentic Asian flavor. Its rich, nutty aroma and taste are distinct and irreplaceable. Be sure to look for “toasted” sesame oil, which is typically found near other Asian ingredients in the grocery store, not with the cooking oils.
- Honey: A natural sweetener that beautifully balances the savory notes of the soy sauce and the heat of the Sriracha. It contributes to the sticky glaze that makes this dish so addictive. If you’re out of honey, light brown sugar can be used as a substitute, adjusting to taste.
- Sriracha: For that delightful kick and a layer of complex chili flavor. The amount can be adjusted to your preference – use less for a milder dish (especially for kids), or more if you love spicy food. Even a small amount adds significant depth. Chili garlic sauce is a good alternative if you don’t have Sriracha.
- Ground White Pepper (Optional): White pepper offers a milder, more delicate heat than black pepper, making it a common seasoning in Asian cuisine. It adds a subtle warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
Mastering the Art of Cooking Honey Garlic Shrimp
Cooking shrimp stir-fry might seem intimidating at first, but with a few simple techniques, you’ll achieve perfectly cooked shrimp and a flavorful stir-fry every time. Follow these steps for success:
Mise en Place: Prep for Success
Before you even turn on the heat, gather and prepare all your ingredients. This means chopping vegetables, mincing garlic and ginger, thawing and patting dry your shrimp, and whisking together your sauce. Stir-fries cook very quickly, so having everything ready prevents overcooking and ensures a smooth process.
Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: No More Rubberiness!
The key to tender, succulent shrimp is high heat and quick cooking. Use a large nonstick pan to prevent sticking and allow the shrimp to sear properly. Cook the shrimp in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan; too many shrimp at once will lower the pan’s temperature and cause them to steam rather than sear, resulting in a rubbery texture.
- Add oil to a hot pan over medium-high heat.
- Place half of your dried shrimp in a single layer. Cook for just 1 minute until they start to turn pink.
- Use tongs to flip each shrimp to the other side and cook for another 1 to 1.5 minutes, or until fully opaque and curled into a “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp will form an “O” shape and be tough.
- Immediately transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate. Repeat with the remaining shrimp.
Building the Flavor Base: Aromatics First
After cooking the shrimp, the pan will retain some flavorful bits. Use this to your advantage! Keep the heat at medium-high and add your thinly sliced onion. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until it starts to soften and become translucent. If the pan looks dry, add a touch more oil. Scrape the bottom of the pan to incorporate any delicious fond.
Next, add the minced garlic and ginger. These aromatics release their incredible fragrance quickly, so cook for just 30 seconds to a minute, stirring constantly, to prevent them from burning, which can lead to a bitter taste.
Steaming Your Broccoli to Perfection
Our quick microwave steaming method is a game-changer for speed. Chop broccoli into bite-sized pieces, place them in a microwave-safe bowl with 3 tablespoons of water, and cover with a microwave-safe plate. Microwave for 90 seconds to 2.5 minutes until crisp-tender. Remember, it will continue to cook slightly in the pan, so don’t overcook it in the microwave. Drain well and set aside.
Once your onions, garlic, and ginger are fragrant, add the steamed broccoli to the pan. Sauté for a few minutes until it reaches your desired crisp-tender texture. This brief sauté also allows the broccoli to absorb some of the savory flavors in the pan.
The Velvety Sauce: Bringing It All Together
Before adding the sauce, give it a quick whisk again, as honey and cornstarch can settle at the bottom. Pour the sauce into the pan with the vegetables. Stir constantly over medium-high heat. You’ll notice the sauce thickening quite rapidly, transforming into a glossy, syrup-like glaze within about a minute. This is the cornstarch working its magic!
Finally, return the cooked shrimp (along with any juices that may have accumulated on the plate) to the pan. Toss everything gently to coat the shrimp and vegetables evenly with the beautiful honey garlic sauce, ensuring the shrimp is fully warmed through. Remove from heat immediately to prevent overcooking the shrimp. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired, and serve your masterpiece hot!
Delicious Variations and Customizations
One of the best aspects of this Honey Garlic Shrimp recipe is how easily it can be adapted to suit your tastes, dietary needs, or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to get creative!
- Add Other Proteins:
- Shrimp and Sausage: As mentioned in the original tip, slice fully cooked sausage (like chicken or pork sausage) into coins. Sear them in the skillet first until browned, then remove. Cook the shrimp, and finally toss everything together with the sauce.
- Chicken or Tofu: For a heartier meal or a vegetarian option, replace shrimp with bite-sized pieces of chicken breast or firm tofu. Cook chicken until fully cooked before adding vegetables and sauce, or pan-fry pressed tofu until golden brown.
- Vegetable Swaps: The onion and broccoli are fantastic, but almost any stir-fry friendly vegetable will work!
- Try sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange) for sweetness and color.
- Snap peas or snow peas add a delicate crunch.
- Thinly sliced carrots or zucchini ribbons can be stir-fried alongside the broccoli.
- Mushrooms, water chestnuts, or baby corn are also great additions for texture and flavor.
- For extra greens, stir in some spinach or bok choy at the very end until just wilted.
- Adjust the Spice Level:
- Milder: Reduce the Sriracha to 1 teaspoon or omit it entirely if cooking for very young children or those sensitive to spice.
- Spicier: Increase the Sriracha to 3-4 teaspoons, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and ginger for an extra fiery kick.
- Nutty Crunch: For added texture and flavor, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts/cashews over the finished dish just before serving.
- Different Grains: While rice is classic, this dish is also delicious over different grains or even noodles (see serving suggestions below).
What To Serve With Honey Garlic Shrimp
This Honey Garlic Shrimp stir-fry is a complete meal on its own, especially with the included broccoli and onions. However, pairing it with a complementary side can elevate your dining experience and make it even more satisfying.
Grain Bases for a Complete Meal
Serving this stir-fry over a bed of cooked grains helps soak up every last drop of that incredible honey garlic sauce.
- White Rice: The classic choice! Fluffy white rice provides a neutral canvas that allows the rich flavors of the shrimp to shine. For ultimate convenience, consider using microwaveable rice packets.
- Quinoa: A fantastic, protein-rich grain that offers a slightly nutty flavor and satisfying texture. Like rice, microwaveable quinoa options are available for a super speedy addition.
- Fried Rice: Take it up a notch by serving your Honey Garlic Shrimp over homemade fried rice or quinoa fried rice. This adds another layer of flavor and texture, turning a simple meal into something truly special.
- Noodles: For a noodle-based meal, serve it over cooked lo mein noodles, ramen noodles (drain the broth), or even rice vermicelli.
Light and Refreshing Salad Sides
A crisp salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm stir-fry.
- Crunchy Cucumber Salad or Asian Cucumber Salad: These offer a cool, tangy, and crunchy element that perfectly cuts through the richness of the sauce.
- A fresh, veggie-heavy salad like this Garden Salad or a hearty Quinoa Salad adds even more nutrients and a different texture profile.
Additional Green Vegetables
If you love your greens, consider adding another vegetable side.
- Roasted Asparagus: Tender-crisp asparagus spears roasted with a hint of Parmesan make a wonderful accompaniment.
- Roasted Green Beans: Simple yet delicious, roasted green beans provide another earthy and fresh component.
- Steamed or sautéed bok choy, lightly seasoned with soy sauce and garlic, would also be a lovely addition.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
While this Honey Garlic Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, it also makes for delicious leftovers, perfect for meal prepping or a quick lunch the next day. Proper storage ensures the best quality and safety.
- Storage: Allow the stir-fry to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If serving with rice or quinoa, store them separately if possible to prevent the grains from becoming mushy.
- Reheating:
- Stovetop: This is the preferred method for reheating, as it helps maintain the texture of the shrimp and vegetables. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the leftover stir-fry and cook, stirring occasionally, until thoroughly warmed through. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a tablespoon or two of water or chicken broth to thin it out.
- Microwave: For a quick reheat, place your desired portion in a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power in 60-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Be careful not to overheat the shrimp, as it can become tough.
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Print Recipe
Honey Garlic Shrimp
Video
A video tutorial for this Honey Garlic Shrimp recipe is available to guide you through each step, ensuring perfect results.
Equipment
- Large nonstick pan
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or sesame oil)
- 1 pound extra large shrimp (see Note 1)
- 1/2 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 3 cups fresh broccoli, chopped to bite-sized pieces
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce (not reduced-sodium)
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil (see Note 2)
- 2 teaspoons Sriracha (see Note 3)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper (optional)
- Cooked white rice (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Steam Broccoli: Prepare broccoli as instructed in Note 4.
- In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and soy sauce. Whisk with a fork until thoroughly smooth. Add the remaining sauce ingredients (toasted sesame oil, Sriracha, honey, and optional white pepper) and whisk again until well combined.
- Add 2 tablespoons of oil to a large nonstick pan and heat over medium-high heat. Add half of the prepared shrimp in an even layer, ensuring not to overcrowd or overlap them. Cook for 1 minute until they begin to turn pink, then use tongs to flip them to the other side. Cook for another 1 to 1.5 minutes, or until fully cooked through and opaque. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a clean plate. Repeat this process with the remaining shrimp and set aside.
- Keeping the heat at medium-high, add the thinly sliced onion to the pan. Cook, stirring frequently, for 2–3 minutes, or until the onion starts to soften. Add a touch more oil if needed and scrape the bottom of the pan to incorporate any browned bits. Add the minced garlic and fresh ginger, and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Finally, add the steamed broccoli and cook for a minute or two until it reaches a crisp-tender texture.
- Quickly stir the sauce mixture once more (as honey tends to settle) and pour it into the pan with the vegetables. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to a syrupy consistency, which usually takes about a minute. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan (including any accumulated juices) and toss everything together just to fully warm the shrimp and coat it evenly with the sauce. Remove from heat, garnish with sesame seeds if desired, and serve immediately. This dish is excellent served over cooked white rice or quinoa.
Recipe Notes
Use extra-large shrimp, typically sized at 26/30 (meaning 26–30 shrimp in a pound). Ensure they are shelled, peeled, and deveined to save time. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely according to package directions (either overnight in the refrigerator or in a colander under cold running water). Before cooking, it is crucial to thoroughly pat the shrimp dry with paper towels; this ensures a good sear and prevents them from steaming in the hot pan.
Note 2: Toasted Sesame Oil
For an authentic and rich flavor, toasted sesame oil is highly recommended. If you can find toasted sesame oil, that’s even better! This oil is typically located in the international or Asian ingredients aisle of your grocery store, not with the other cooking oils.
Note 3: Adjusting Sriracha for Spice Level
Sriracha adds both heat and a distinctive flavor to the sauce. As written, this recipe has a noticeable kick. You can adjust the amount or omit it entirely for a milder dish, but note that this will alter the overall flavor profile. For children or those who prefer less spice, 1 teaspoon is a good starting point. If you enjoy extra spicy shrimp, feel free to add more!
Note 4: Quick Microwave Steamed Broccoli
To steam broccoli quickly: Chop fresh broccoli into bite-sized pieces and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Add 3 tablespoons of water and cover the bowl with a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 90 seconds to 2.5 minutes, or until the broccoli is crisp-tender. It will continue to cook slightly when added to the pan, so avoid overcooking it in the microwave. If needed, microwave in 1-minute increments until tender. Drain the steamed broccoli thoroughly before adding it to the stir-fry.
Storage Instructions: Store any leftover Honey Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Tips: Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warm. Avoid high heat and prolonged reheating to maintain the shrimp’s tender texture.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.