Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli Recipe

Savory Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli Recipe Magic

Seafood enthusiasts crave this spectacular honey garlic butter shrimp and broccoli recipe that delivers incredible flavor in minutes.

Tender shrimp sizzle in a luscious sauce that blends sweet and savory notes perfectly.

Each bite promises a delightful combination of succulent protein and crisp vegetables.

The golden-brown shrimp glisten with a glossy honey garlic butter coating that seals in rich, mouthwatering taste.

Fresh broccoli adds vibrant color and nutritious crunch to this quick weeknight meal.

Weeknight dinners never looked so delicious and satisfying.

This stunning dish will become your new go-to recipe for an impressive yet effortless dinner.

What People Love About Shrimp & Broccoli

What People Love About Shrimp & Broccoli
  • Perfect for home cooks of all skill levels, this recipe combines sweet, savory, and spicy notes in one simple skillet, guaranteeing a restaurant-quality meal without complex techniques.
  • Transform ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dish that works beautifully as a quick dinner, meal prep option, or impressive date night meal that comes together in mere minutes.
  • Packed with lean protein from shrimp and nutrients from broccoli, this recipe delivers a balanced meal that satisfies hunger while keeping health goals on track.

Ingredients for Shrimp & Broccoli

Protein:
  • Shrimp: Fresh seafood that serves as the main protein for this delicious dish.
Vegetables:
  • Broccoli: Green vegetable that adds nutrition and crisp texture to the meal.
Sauce Ingredients:
  • Honey, Soy Sauce: Creates a sweet and savory base for the dish.
  • Garlic, Ginger: Provide aromatic and bold flavor to the sauce.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a hint of spicy heat to the recipe.
Cooking Ingredients:
  • Olive Oil: Helps to sauté the vegetables and prevent sticking.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps create a glossy sauce.
  • Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce and gives it a smooth consistency.
Seasoning:
  • Salt, Pepper: Enhances the overall flavor of the shrimp and broccoli.

Cooking Guide for Shrimp & Broccoli

Cooking Guide for Shrimp & Broccoli

Step 1: Whisk Tangy Honey Sauce

In a small bowl, blend honey, soy sauce, minced ginger, crushed garlic, and red pepper flakes.

Set aside about two-thirds of the sauce for later, and coat shrimp with the remaining portion.

Let the shrimp marinate briefly while preparing broccoli.

Step 2: Sauté Crispy Broccoli

Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat.

Add chopped broccoli and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Stir-fry for 5-6 minutes until broccoli becomes tender yet maintains a slight crunch.

Remove broccoli from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sear Succulent Shrimp

Add butter to the same skillet, allowing it to melt and bubble.

Drop shrimp into the pan and cook for approximately 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and curl slightly.

Step 4: Create Glossy Sauce

Whisk cornstarch into the reserved sauce mixture.

Pour the sauce into the skillet with shrimp.

Reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the shrimp beautifully.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return cooked broccoli to the skillet, tossing everything together.

Taste and adjust seasonings with additional soy sauce or red pepper flakes as desired.

Serve hot and enjoy the mouthwatering combination of flavors.

Kitchen Tips for Shrimp & Broccoli

Kitchen Tips for Shrimp & Broccoli
  • Let shrimp sit in 1/3 of the sauce for maximum flavor absorption, preventing bland bites and ensuring every piece is deliciously coated.
  • Stir-fry broccoli quickly over high heat to maintain its vibrant green color and crisp texture, avoiding mushy vegetables that lose their nutritional value.
  • Use the same skillet without wiping clean to capture residual broccoli bits, creating extra depth of flavor and reducing unnecessary dish washing.
  • Whisk cornstarch into reserved sauce to create a glossy, restaurant-quality coating that clings perfectly to shrimp and broccoli, transforming a simple dish into a gourmet experience.
  • Simmer sauce at low temperature to prevent burning and achieve a silky, thickened consistency that elevates the entire dish's taste profile.

How to Store Shrimp & Broccoli

  • Store leftover honey garlic butter shrimp and broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent odors from spreading.
  • Transfer cooled shrimp and broccoli to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Remove excess air, seal completely, and freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date to track storage time.
  • Place leftovers in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few drops of water to prevent drying, and cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
  • Warm a small amount of oil or butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the shrimp and broccoli, stirring gently to prevent overcooking. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through, adding a splash of water or extra sauce if needed to maintain moisture.

What to Pair with Shrimp & Broccoli

Pairing Flavor Explosions: Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli

  • Crisp White Wine Companion: Select a bright, acidic Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to cut through the richness of the butter and complement the shrimp's sweetness.
  • Zesty Rice Base Boost: Serve over jasmine or basmati rice to absorb the incredible honey garlic sauce and provide a soft, neutral backdrop for the bold flavors.
  • Fresh Herb Sprinkle Finish: Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions to add a fresh, light note that balances the dish's deep, savory undertones.
  • Cool Cucumber Salad Side: Prepare a quick cucumber salad with rice vinegar and sesame seeds to offer a refreshing contrast to the warm, rich main dish.

Shrimp & Broccoli – Fresh Takes

  • Keto-Friendly Version: Replace honey with a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or erythritol. Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to reduce carbs and keep the recipe low-carb friendly.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Swap butter with coconut oil or olive oil for a lactose-free alternative. This version maintains the rich flavor while accommodating dairy sensitivities.
  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute shrimp with firm tofu or tempeh cubes. Press tofu to remove excess moisture before marinating and cooking to achieve a similar texture and absorb the delicious sauce.
  • Spicy Lover's Remix: Increase red pepper flakes or add sriracha sauce to the marinade. Include sliced jalapeños during cooking for an extra kick of heat that will make your taste buds dance.

FAQs

  • Why use honey in this recipe?

Honey adds a natural sweetness that balances the salty soy sauce and creates a delicious glaze for the shrimp, helping the sauce caramelize and stick to the protein.

  • Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to completely thaw and pat them dry before cooking. Excess moisture can prevent proper searing and browning of the shrimp.

  • Is this recipe spicy?

The red pepper flakes provide a mild heat that can be easily adjusted. You can reduce or completely omit them if you prefer a milder dish, or add more if you like extra spiciness.

  • What type of pan works best for this recipe?

A large skillet or wok with high heat capacity works perfectly. Cast iron or stainless steel pans are ideal for achieving a good sear on the shrimp and creating a flavorful sauce.

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Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli Recipe

Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli Recipe


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4.8 from 10 reviews

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent honey garlic butter shrimp & broccoli invites home cooks on a delightful culinary journey through simple yet bold flavors. Quick skillet magic combines sweet, savory notes with perfectly seared seafood and crisp vegetables, promising a restaurant-quality meal you can easily create at home.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 pound large shrimp (peeled, deveined and tails removed if desired)

Seasonings and Sauces:

  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cups chopped broccoli
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the flavor-packed sauce by whisking honey, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Separate about two-thirds of the sauce for later, and marinate the shrimp in the remaining portion for 3-4 minutes.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add chopped broccoli, seasoning with salt and pepper. Stir-fry for 5-6 minutes until crisp-tender, maintaining a vibrant green color. Transfer broccoli to a separate plate.
  3. Melt butter in the same skillet, allowing any remaining broccoli bits to enhance the flavor. Introduce shrimp and cook for approximately 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly curl.
  4. Whisk cornstarch into the reserved sauce, then pour into the skillet with shrimp. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and create a glossy coating on the shrimp.
  5. Reintroduce the cooked broccoli to the skillet, gently tossing to combine and absorb the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional soy sauce or red pepper flakes if desired.

Notes

  • Marinate for maximum flavor by letting shrimp sit in sauce for 15-20 minutes before cooking to enhance taste absorption.
  • Ensure high heat when stir-frying broccoli to maintain crisp texture and prevent soggy vegetables.
  • Choose fresh, large shrimp with shells removed for quicker cooking and easier eating experience.
  • Customize spice levels by adjusting red pepper flakes or adding sriracha for extra kick.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch, Appetizer
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 24 g
  • Sodium: 470 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 150 mg
Olivia Bennett

Olivia Bennett

Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

  • Showcasing ingredients in plant-forward vegetarian dishes.
  • Creating adaptable weeklong menu templates centered on seasonal produce.

Education

Schoolcraft College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Associate Degree
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, menu planning, and food safety.

With an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts from Schoolcraft College and a natural knack for teaching, Olivia Bennett’s all about making home cooking feel possible, even on your busiest day.
Her thing? Recipes that are budget-friendly, season-forward, and full of Southern warmth. Whether it’s a roasted veggie bowl or a five-ingredient skillet bake, Olivia makes sure it’s simple, satisfying, and something you’ll want to make again tomorrow.
When she’s not shooting step-by-step videos or testing spice blends, she’s out foraging, flipping through old cookbooks, or throwing laid-back dinner parties with a BYO-mason-jar theme.

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