Honey Garlic Shrimp

Honey Garlic Shrimp is a quick, flavorful dish that pairs succulent shrimp with a sweet and savory glaze made from honey, garlic, and soy sauce. It’s perfect for a fast weeknight dinner or a light yet satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare—ready in just 20 minutes

• Made with simple pantry ingredients

• Bursting with sweet and savory flavors

• Pairs well with rice, noodles, or vegetables

• Great for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Shrimp, peeled and deveined

• Honey

• Garlic, minced

• Soy sauce

• Olive oil or sesame oil

• Optional: red pepper flakes or green onions for garnish

Directions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Set aside.

2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

3. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.

4. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the shrimp. Stir well to coat all shrimp evenly.

5. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the shrimp are well glazed.

6. Remove from heat and garnish with green onions or red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce.

• Citrus Twist: Add a splash of lime or orange juice for a tangy kick.

• Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt content.

• Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

• Vegetable Add-In: Stir in broccoli, bell peppers, or snow peas during the last few minutes of cooking.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

FAQs

How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking?

Cook them just until they turn pink and curl into a C-shape—typically 1-2 minutes per side.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

Do I need to marinate the shrimp?

Marinating is optional. The sauce adds plenty of flavor during cooking, but a quick 10-15 minute marinade can enhance taste.

Can I grill the shrimp instead?

Yes. Marinate the shrimp, then grill for 2-3 minutes per side and brush with the sauce as they cook.

What can I serve with honey garlic shrimp?

Great sides include rice, quinoa, noodles, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but only heat them briefly in the sauce until warmed through to avoid overcooking.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, it’s mild by default, but you can add spice with chili flakes or hot sauce if desired.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) to the sauce during cooking if a thicker glaze is preferred.

Can I use this sauce with other proteins?

Absolutely. It works well with chicken, tofu, or even salmon.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes. Cook the shrimp and sauce, store them separately, and reheat when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Shrimp is a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers big taste with minimal effort. Whether served over rice, tossed into noodles, or enjoyed on its own, it’s a versatile and delicious option you’ll find yourself returning to again and again.