Name: Delectable Honey Garlic Shrimp, Sausage & Broccoli Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp (fresh shrimp preferred); 8 ounces smoked or Italian sausage (sliced); 2 cups broccoli florets (can substitute with bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini); 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable/canola oil); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 3 tablespoons honey (can use maple syrup as a vegan substitute); 3 tablespoons soy sauce (gluten-free option available); 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (can substitute with white vinegar or lemon juice); 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening); to taste salt; to taste pepper; to taste crushed red pepper flakes; to taste sesame seeds; to taste green onions (sliced)

Honey Garlic Shrimp, Sausage & Broccoli - Delectable

When the week slips into a whirlwind of commitments, the last thing I want to worry about is what to make for dinner. That’s when my trusty one-pan recipe for Honey Garlic Shrimp, Sausage & Broccoli comes to the rescue! The symphony of sweet honey, savory sausage, and tender shrimp dances together beautifully, while vibrant broccoli adds a delightful crunch. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this quick and delicious meal that not only satisfies your cravings but also leaves you feeling great—not to mention, it’s customizable! Swap out the proteins or veggies based on what you have on hand, and find endless combinations that keep dinner exciting. Join me in transforming ordinary weeknights into something truly delectable!

Why You'll Love This Honey Garlic Shrimp, Sausage & Broccoli

Simplicity at its finest: This one-pan recipe is quick and easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet honey, savory sausage, and tender shrimp creates an irresistible medley.

Customizable Options: You can easily switch up proteins or vegetables, allowing for endless variations to suit your taste.

Health Benefits: Packed with protein and nutrient-rich broccoli, this meal is as wholesome as it is delicious.

Time-Saving: With a preparation time of just 25 minutes, you can enjoy a gourmet meal without the hassle.

Transform your dinner routine with this delightful dish that the whole family will love!

Honey Garlic Shrimp, Sausage & Broccoli Ingredients

• A delightful dish ready in 25 minutes!

For the Protein

Shrimp – Provides a tender, juicy protein base; fresh shrimp is best for optimal texture.
Sausage – Adds a hearty, satisfying bite; smoked or Italian sausage is recommended for depth of flavor.

For the Vegetables

Broccoli – Offers fantastic crunch and nutrient benefits; you can substitute with bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini for variety.

For the Sauce

Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing and enhances flavor; can be replaced with vegetable or canola oil if needed.
Garlic – Imparts aromatic depth; fresh garlic is preferred for that robust flavor.
Honey – Introduces sweetness to balance savory notes; maple syrup can be used as a vegan substitute.
Soy Sauce – Provides umami richness; opt for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free diets.
Rice Vinegar – Adds necessary acidity; can be substituted with white vinegar or lemon juice.
Cornstarch – Thicken the sauce; this is optional and can be skipped for a lighter consistency.

For Seasoning

Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings to taste; adjust according to your preference.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – For a touch of heat; use them according to your spice tolerance.

For Garnishing

Sesame Seeds – For a delightful crunch and a touch of flavor; adds a nice finishing touch.
Green Onions – Offers a burst of freshness; optional but highly recommended for presentation.

Embrace the ease of this Honey Garlic Shrimp, Sausage & Broccoli dish and let your kitchen come alive with its vibrant flavors!

How to Make Honey Garlic Shrimp, Sausage & Broccoli

Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, warm up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. This is the perfect base for our flavorful dish!
Cook the Sausage: Add 8 ounces of sliced smoked or Italian sausage to the skillet. Sauté it until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage and set it aside.
Sauté the Garlic: Into the same skillet, toss in 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 1 minute, or just until fragrant. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen starts to smell amazing!
Add the Broccoli: Stir in 2 cups of broccoli florets, cooking for 4-5 minutes. Look for the broccoli to turn bright green and tender-crisp.
Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, then add 1 pound of shrimp, 3 tablespoons of honey, 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar. Stir everything together until well combined.
Cook the Shrimp: Allow the mixture to cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. This is when the magic happens!
Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir this into the skillet, cooking for another minute until it thickens.
Season: Finally, adjust the flavor with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to your liking. Taste and add more seasoning if needed!
Garnish and Serve: Serve your beautiful Honey Garlic Shrimp, Sausage & Broccoli hot, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for that finishing touch!

Optional: Serve it over steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Honey Garlic Shrimp, Sausage & Broccoli

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the dish's flavors and textures for your next meal.
Freezer: If you'd like to keep this delightful dish longer, freeze it in a suitable container for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool it completely before freezing to ensure freshness.
Reheating: When you're ready to enjoy your Honey Garlic Shrimp, Sausage & Broccoli again, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat. This prevents overcooking the shrimp, keeping them tender.
Airtight Guidance: For storage, make sure your container is airtight to avoid moisture and preserve the vibrant flavors of this dish!

Expert Tips for Honey Garlic Shrimp, Sausage & Broccoli

Fresh Matters: Use fresh shrimp instead of frozen for ideal texture; if frozen, fully thaw them before cooking to avoid moisture issues.
Avoid Overcooking: Cook shrimp just until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes, to prevent a rubbery texture.
Veggie Vibes: Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for color and nutrition; just keep similar cooking times in mind.
Taste Test: Adjust the sweetness or heat by modifying honey and crushed red pepper flakes according to your family's preferences.
Thicker Sauce: If you like a thicker sauce for your Honey Garlic Shrimp, add cornstarch mixed with water right before serving.
Hearty Options: Consider swapping proteins like chicken or tofu for a delicious twist on this quick meal while ensuring the flavor balance remains intact.

Make Ahead Options

These Honey Garlic Shrimp, Sausage & Broccoli are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can chop the broccoli and slice the sausage up to 2 days in advance; simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. For even more convenience, mix your sauce ingredients (honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar) up to 24 hours ahead of time and keep it ready in the fridge. When you're ready to cook, just sauté the garlic and broccoli, add the prepped sausage and shrimp, then stir in your sauce. This way, you'll still enjoy a delicious, fresh-tasting meal that comes together in no time!

What to Serve with Honey Garlic Shrimp, Sausage & Broccoli?

Dive into a meal that’s bursting with flavor and color—this dish deserves a perfect accompaniment to complete the experience.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The delicate, fragrant rice soaks up the savory sauce beautifully and balances the dish's vibrant flavors.
Crispy Garlic Bread: Its crunchy texture and buttery garlic enhances the meal, perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.
Green Salad: A fresh, light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
Roasted Asparagus: Nutty and tender, roasted asparagus brings a delicious crunch and complements the meal's vibrant profile.
Quinoa: Protein-packed and nutty, quinoa serves as a hearty base that pairs well with the sweet and savory elements. Mixing it with lemon juice brightens the flavors, making each bite memorable.
Sautéed Snap Peas: Their sweetness and snap enhance the dish's fresh feel, creating a lovely symphony of textures and tastes.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly chilled Pinot Grigio can elevate your mealtime, refreshing the palate between bites.
Dessert: Consider a light sorbet or fresh fruit salad to cleanse the palate; the sweetness will echo the honey in the main dish without overpowering it.

Honey Garlic Shrimp, Sausage & Broccoli Variations

Feel free to elevate this delightful dish with your personal touch and unique flavors!

Protein Swaps: Replace shrimp with chicken breast or pork for a heartier twist that's equally delicious.
Vegetable Variations: Swap out broccoli for vibrant bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini to add color and variety.
Vegan/Vegetarian Option: For a plant-based delight, substitute shrimp and sausage with tofu or tempeh, enriching the flavor with extra spices.
Gluten-Free: Make this dish gluten-free by using tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch more crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to amp up the heat!
Citrusy Brightness: Incorporate a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice at the end for a zesty finish that elevates the flavors.
Noodle Lover: Serve it over rice noodles instead of steamed rice for a delightful twist on texture and a fun meal!
Herbal Infusion: Sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro or basil on top just before serving for a fresh and aromatic touch!

With these variations, you're set to transform the classic Honey Garlic Shrimp, Sausage & Broccoli into something uniquely yours every time!

Honey Garlic Shrimp, Sausage & Broccoli Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using fresh shrimp. Look for shrimp that are firm and translucent, without any dark spots or strong fishy odors. If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are completely thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking.

What are the best storage methods for leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain flavor and texture. When ready to eat, I suggest reheating them on the stovetop over medium heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.

Can I freeze Honey Garlic Shrimp, Sausage & Broccoli?
Yes! To freeze, let the dish cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then reheat gently on the stovetop. This helps maintain the integrity of the shrimp and prevents them from getting tough.

What if I have allergies to some ingredients?
Very important! If you have allergies, you can customize the recipe to meet your dietary needs. Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make it gluten-free. For a nut allergy, ensure your oils are nut-free, and you might also want to skip the sesame seeds. Always double-check ingredient labels when purchasing.

What are some common issues that arise while cooking shrimp?
One common problem is overcooking shrimp, which can lead to a rubbery texture. The key is to cook them just until they turn pink and opaque, usually about 3-4 minutes. If you're cooking with frozen shrimp, thaw them before cooking to avoid excess moisture that can affect the dish.

Can I add more vegetables or substitute proteins in this dish?
Absolutely! This dish is wonderfully versatile. You can switch out broccoli for other veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini. For proteins, chicken or tofu can easily replace shrimp and sausage, just remember to adjust the cooking times based on what you use to ensure everything is cooked through.