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As I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil signaled the beginning of something special. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Easy Honey Garlic Shrimp & Sausage Broccoli Skillet—a delightful one-pan meal that marries succulent shrimp, savory sausage, and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a glossy honey garlic glaze. What makes this dish a true weeknight hero is its lightning-fast prep time, clocking in at just 28 minutes, perfect for those busy days when takeout is too tempting. Plus, with gluten-free options available, everyone can indulge in this crowd-pleaser without compromise. Ready to make a nourishing meal that feels like a restaurant treat right at home? Let’s dive into this culinary adventure!
Why is this skillet recipe a must-try?
Speedy Preparation: This meal comes together in just 28 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
One-Pan Wonder: Say goodbye to excessive cleanup! With everything cooked in one skillet, that means less dishwashing and more time to enjoy your delectable creation.
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Flavor Explosion: The sweet honey and savory garlic combine beautifully, offering a satisfying glaze that clings to the shrimp and sausage perfectly.
Customizable Goodness: Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you choose turkey sausage for a lighter option or add snap peas for extra crunch, this dish accommodates all diets and tastes.
Crowd-Pleasing: With its vibrant flavors and eye-catching presentation, this dish is sure to impress at any dinner table, making it a staple for family and friends alike.
Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Check out my Baked Hot Honey Chicken or dive into the comfort of a Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger for more amazing recipes!
Honey Garlic Shrimp & Sausage Ingredients
• Get ready to whip up the magic with these essential ingredients!
For the Skillet
- Large Shrimp – The star protein in this dish; remember to peel and devein for easy cooking.
- Pre-cooked Sausage (Kielbasa or Andouille) – Adds depth and flavor; can be swapped with turkey sausage for a lighter bite.
- Broccoli – Brightens the dish and provides nutrients; feel free to use broccolini or snap peas for variation.
- Olive Oil – Essential for searing sausage; it helps achieve that perfect golden crust without sticking.
For the Glaze
- Honey – Sweetness and the base for the glaze; warm slightly to ensure it mixes easily.
- Low-sodium Soy Sauce – Brings umami richness; tamari or coconut aminos work great for gluten-free options.
- Garlic – Infuses aromatic flavor; fresh minced garlic packs an extra punch!
- Fresh Ginger – Adds a warm, spicy note; can be omitted if you prefer a milder taste.
- Sriracha – Adds an adjustable kick of heat; omit for a milder profile or substitute with a gentler sauce.
- Sesame Oil – Introduces a nutty flavor; you can skip this if you have sesame allergies.
For the Garnish
- Fresh Parsley – Chopped for a pop of freshness and color.
- Sesame Seeds – For topping; they add a lovely crunch and visual appeal.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to creating an unforgettable Honey Garlic Shrimp & Sausage Broccoli Skillet!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Garlic Shrimp & Sausage Broccoli Skillet
Step 1: Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, fresh ginger, sriracha, and sesame oil until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. Set this tantalizing sauce aside, as it will create a delicious glaze for your Honey Garlic Shrimp & Sausage Broccoli Skillet. This step takes about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Sear the Sausage
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced pre-cooked sausage, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until browned and crispy on the edges. Once done, transfer the sausage to a plate, leaving the golden drippings in the skillet to infuse with flavor for the next steps.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become bright green and tender but still crisp. To enhance the cooking, add 2 tablespoons of water, cover, and steam for an additional 2 minutes, which will help achieve that vibrant color and maintain nutrients.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Carefully lay the shrimp in a single layer over the broccoli in the skillet. Cook for about 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque, signaling they are perfectly cooked. Be mindful not to overcook the shrimp; they should curl into a C shape when done, keeping them tender and juicy for your skillet dish.
Step 5: Combine & Glaze
Return the seared sausage back into the skillet with the shrimp and broccoli. Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce over the mixture and gently stir to combine everything evenly. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, creating a glossy coating that envelops the Honey Garlic Shrimp & Sausage Broccoli Skillet beautifully.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Once the glaze has thickened, remove the skillet from the heat. Top your delicious dish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and freshness. Serve straight from the skillet for a picturesque presentation, or over a bed of rice or noodles for a complete meal experience!
What to Serve with Easy Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Broccoli Skillet
Elevate your meal experience by pairing this delightful one-pan wonder with sides that complement its vibrant flavors and textures.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy rice soaks up the delectable honey garlic glaze, enhancing each bite while offering a pleasant contrast to the dish’s savoriness.
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Garlic Noodles: Their subtle garlic flavor serves as a perfect backdrop to the sweet and savory notes of the shrimp and sausage, making each mouthful satisfying.
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Crispy Veggie Spring Rolls: The crunchiness of these spring rolls adds texture, and the fresh veggies burst with flavor that balances the shrimp’s richness.
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Zesty Cucumber Salad: A refreshing addition that cuts through the dish’s richness, with a bit of lime and cilantro to enliven your palate.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the savory elements, creating a comforting balance as a side.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc enhances the meal, offering bright acidity that perfectly complements the honey garlic flavors.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this light and airy treat provides a sweet finale, contrasting with the savory main dish while keeping the evening delightful.
Each of these pairings not only brings out the best in your Honey Garlic Shrimp & Sausage Broccoli Skillet but also creates a memorable dining experience for you and your loved ones!
How to Store and Freeze Honey Garlic Shrimp & Sausage Broccoli Skillet
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures your honey garlic shrimp and sausage maintain their delightful flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Just be sure to use freezer-safe containers to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water to help revive the glaze’s stickiness.
Meal Prep Tip: If you plan to make this dish ahead, the sauce can be prepared up to 3 days in advance, ensuring a quick assembly on your busy weeknights!
Honey Garlic Shrimp & Sausage Skillet Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish and make it your own with these delightful twists!
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Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a dash of cayenne for an exciting heat that complements the sweetness of the honey.
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Veggie Delight: Swap broccoli for bell peppers or snap peas, adding both color and crunch while boosting the nutritional profile.
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Vegetarian Twist: Use plant-based sausage as a savory substitute for a completely vegetarian meal without sacrificing flavor.
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Low-Carb Version: Serve the shrimp and sausage over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a lighter, low-carb alternative.
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Nutty Surprise: Incorporate toasted almonds or cashews for added texture and a lovely nutty flavor that enhances this dish.
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Citrus Refresh: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the cooked dish just before serving to brighten the overall flavor.
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Extra Glaze: Love that sauce? Simply double the sauce ingredients for a more indulgent glaze that will coat every bite.
As you explore these variations, don’t forget to check out my Creamy Hash Brown Casserole with Sausage and Eggs for another comforting meal perfect for any gathering!
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Garlic Shrimp & Sausage Broccoli Skillets are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the honey garlic sauce up to 3 days in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its great flavor. Additionally, you can chop the broccoli and slice the sausage 24 hours before serving—this will save precious time on busy weeknights. When you’re ready to cook, simply heat the skillet, sear the sausage, and follow the remaining steps as directed. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal ready in minutes, making your evenings stress-free!
Expert Tips for Honey Garlic Shrimp & Sausage
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Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Watch for the shrimp to turn pink and form a C shape; overcooking will make them tough and rubbery.
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Batch Cooking: If the sausage or shrimp seem overcrowded, sear in batches. This prevents steaming and ensures an even, golden color.
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Thickening Trick: For a thicker glaze, mix 1/2 tsp cornstarch with 1 tsp cold water and add it during the simmering phase for the Honey Garlic Shrimp & Sausage.
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Storage Solutions: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Gently reheat to maintain texture and flavor.
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Customize Flavors: Don’t hesitate to swap out ingredients; adding a splash of citrus or using different proteins can take this dish to the next level!
Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Broccoli Skillet Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing shrimp, look for large, fresh shrimp that are firm to the touch and free from any dark spots or strong odors. If using frozen shrimp, opt for those that are flash-frozen to maintain quality. Peeling and deveining them before cooking will also make your meal preparation smoother.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
I recommend storing any leftover Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Broccoli Skillet in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact and the shrimp tender. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
Can I freeze this dish?
Certainly! To freeze your Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Broccoli Skillet, allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 2 months. For a smooth reheating experience, be sure to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming it up on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to revive the glaze.
What should I do if the shrimp overcook?
Very! If you find that your shrimp have overcooked and become tough, there are a few tricks. The next time you cook shrimp, ensure they’re cooking just until they turn pink and form a C shape, which signals doneness. If they do overcook, I suggest combining them with a generous extra drizzle of honey or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to help enhance their flavor and texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! This dish can be tailored to accommodate various dietary needs. For gluten-free options, be sure to use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce. If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, substitute the pre-cooked sausage with plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version, or simply swap it for turkey sausage for a lighter alternative.
How do I make the sauce thicker if desired?
For a thicker glaze, create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1/2 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 teaspoon of cold water until smooth. Add this slurry to the skillet during the simmering step once the honey garlic sauce is introduced. Stir gently, and allow it to cook for an additional minute or two until it thickens beautifully. This will give your Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Broccoli Skillet an extra luscious coating!
Honey Garlic Shrimp & Sausage Broccoli Skillet in 28 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, fresh ginger, sriracha, and sesame oil until smooth. Set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear sliced sausage for about 2-3 minutes until browned.
- Add broccoli to the skillet and sauté for 4-5 minutes. Add 2 tablespoons of water, cover, and steam for an additional 2 minutes.
- Lay shrimp in a single layer over the broccoli. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Return the sausage to the skillet, pour the honey garlic sauce over, and stir gently to combine. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley and sesame seeds before serving.
