The sizzling sound of shrimp and sausage dancing together in a hot skillet is enough to make anyone hungry. This Easy Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Broccoli Skillet not only delivers on flavor but also gives you a satisfying weeknight meal in under 30 minutes. Imagine sweet honey, robust garlic, and hearty sausage all coming together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze! Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it. With this delightful recipe, you’ll feel like a culinary hero right in your own kitchen. Ready to whip up this irresistible dish and impress your family with a homemade feast? Let’s dive in!
Why is this recipe a must-try?
Speedy Preparation: This dish cooks up in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
One-Pan Wonder: The minimalist cleanup will make you love it even more—just toss everything in one skillet!
Flavor Explosion: A perfect blend of sweet honey, spicy garlic, and savory sausage ensures every bite is bursting with taste.
Customizable Options: Easily swap in different vegetables or proteins like chicken for a unique twist that suits your family’s tastes.
Nutrition Packed: Each serving features tender shrimp and crispy broccoli, making it as nutritious as it is delicious.
Plus, if you’re in the mood for something similar, try the Cheesy Ranch Sausage for another flavor-packed meal that’s quick and easy!
Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Ingredients
• Discover what makes this dish irresistible!
For the Shrimp and Sausage
- Large Shrimp – Juicy and tender; make sure to thaw completely and pat dry for the best sear.
- Pre-cooked Sausage (Kielbasa or Andouille) – Provides a hearty, smoky flavor; feel free to substitute with turkey sausage for a lighter option.
For the Vegetables
- Broccoli – Adds a lovely crunch and vibrant color; you can replace it with snap peas or bell peppers for variety.
For the Sauce
- Honey – Sweetness is essential to create that sticky glaze; warming it makes mixing super easy!
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Delivers rich umami; a healthier choice for savory depth.
- Garlic – The aromatic essentials that deepen flavor; fresh is best!
- Fresh Ginger – Optional, but adds a delightful warmth; try it for extra kick!
- Sriracha – Optional, this will bring a hint of heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
- Sesame Oil – A touch adds nutty richness and a toasty finish to the sauce.
For the Garnish
- Fresh Parsley – Brightens up the dish with a fresh note; sprinkle generously!
- Sesame Seeds – Toasty and decorative; perfect for that finishing touch.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Broccoli Skillet
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of honey, ¼ cup of low-sodium soy sauce, 3 minced garlic cloves, and grated ginger, if using. For an extra kick, add a dash of sriracha and a drizzle of sesame oil. Ensure the mixture is smooth and well-combined, then set aside so the flavors can meld while you cook the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Sear Sausage
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add sliced pre-cooked sausage, like kielbasa or andouille, and sear for about 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. This browning adds a delicious depth of flavor to your Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Broccoli Skillet. Remove the sausage from the skillet but keep the rendered fat for the next steps.
Step 3: Cook Broccoli
In the same skillet, add 2 cups of broccoli florets and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the broccoli to be bright green with some char on the edges; this enhances the flavor and texture. To steam it slightly, add 2–3 tablespoons of water, cover with a lid, and let it steam for 2 minutes, until it’s tender-crisp. Push the broccoli to one side of the skillet.
Step 4: Cook Shrimp
On the cleared side of the skillet, add 1 pound of large shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and form a C shape, indicating they are perfectly cooked. Be careful not to overcrowd the shrimp, as each should have enough contact with the pan for a lovely sear.
Step 5: Glaze the Dish
Return the seared sausage to the skillet, mixing it with the shrimp and broccoli. Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce over everything, stirring gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Let it simmer for about 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and glaze the shrimp and sausage beautifully. The aroma will be irresistible!
Step 6: Serve
Once everything is well combined and sticky, take the skillet off the heat. Garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a delightful finish. Serve your Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Broccoli Skillet hot, either directly in the skillet or over a bed of rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a comforting meal.
Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Skillet Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish; your kitchen is your canvas, and these delightful twists will make it your masterpiece!
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Seafood Swap: Replace shrimp with scallops for a luxurious touch. The sweet, buttery flavor of scallops complements the honey garlic beautifully.
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Chicken Option: For a heartier meal, substitute shrimp with diced chicken breast. Cook until golden brown and juicy, soaking up that sticky glaze.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in bell peppers or snap peas alongside the broccoli for added color and crunch. These not only enhance the dish’s appearance but also elevate the nutrition.
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Citrus Zing: Add a splash of fresh lime or lemon juice right before serving. The citrus will brighten the dish and add an irresistible tang.
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Extra Heat: Increase the sriracha to suit your spice tolerance, or sprinkle in red pepper flakes if you crave that extra kick. Spicy and sweet is always a harmonious pairing!
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Grain Swap: Serve the dish over garlic noodles instead of rice or cauliflower rice. This offers a comforting twist that enhances the overall flavor profile.
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Herb Infusion: Try sprinkling fresh basil or cilantro over the dish just before serving for an aromatic boost that adds a refreshing twist. It’s like a culinary hug!
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into the sauce for an intriguing depth and a hint of smokiness that pairs splendidly with the sausage.
For another flavor-packed meal, consider also exploring the delightful Protein Honey Garlic or the irresistible taste of Lemon Garlic Parmesan for versatile dinner ideas!
How to Store and Freeze Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Broccoli Skillet fresh and ready to reheat.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool it down before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water if it seems dry to revive the glaze.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Skillet meals are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the honey garlic sauce and chop the broccoli up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can slice the sausage up to 3 days ahead to save time during the cooking process. When you’re ready to serve, simply sear the sausage, cook the broccoli, and add the shrimp as instructed. To ensure the shrimp remain juicy, avoid overcooking by monitoring them closely—just until they’re pink and curled. With these make-ahead options, you’ll enjoy a delicious, home-cooked dinner with minimal last-minute effort!
What to Serve with Easy Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Skillet
Nothing enhances the joy of a delicious one-pan meal quite like the perfect side dishes and drinks.
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Steamed Rice: A fluffy bed of rice provides a neutral base that balances the robust sweet and savory flavors of the skillet dish.
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Garlic Noodles: Tossed in a savory garlic sauce, these noodles complement the dish’s richness while adding a delightful garlicky twist.
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Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, this provides a light and nutritious foundation that soaks up the tasty honey garlic sauce beautifully.
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Crispy Green Salad: A fresh and crunchy salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette adds brightness and contrast to the dish’s cooked flavors.
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Stir-Fried Vegetables: Quick-stir fried veggies offer an extra crunch and color, maintaining the healthy balance of this meal.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc enhances the meal, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the dish’s rich, sticky textures.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, this light and refreshing treat cleanses the palate after the savory flavors of the Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Broccoli Skillet.
Expert Tips for Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage
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Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Ensure shrimp are only cooked until they are pink and curled, resembling a C shape. Overcooking makes them tough.
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Avoid Sausage Overcrowding: Don’t crowd the skillet when searing the sausage; this helps achieve that desirable crispy texture and full flavor development.
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Flavor Boost: To enhance the sauce’s depth, let it simmer a bit longer until it thickens. Adding a splash of additional honey can elevate the glaze on the Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Broccoli Skillet.
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Frozen Broccoli Usage: If you’re using frozen broccoli, add it directly to the pan but extend the cooking time by a minute or so to achieve the perfect tender-crisp texture.
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Gluten-Free Options Available: Swap out soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos to make this dish gluten-free without sacrificing taste!
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Timing Matters: Prep your ingredients before cooking to ensure a smooth, quick transition from one cooking step to the next; this keeps the meal under 30 minutes!
Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Skillet Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for the best results?
Absolutely! For this dish, large shrimp are ideal as they provide a juicy, tender texture when cooked properly. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding them to the skillet for the perfect sear.
How should I store leftovers from the Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Skillet?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply reheat gently in a skillet over low heat for about 5–7 minutes to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Can I freeze Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently in a skillet.
What if I don’t have fresh ginger for the sauce?
Not a problem! If you don’t have fresh ginger, you can use a small amount of ground ginger—around 1/4 teaspoon. It won’t provide the exact same flavor, but it will still add a nice warmth to the sauce.
Are there any dietary alternatives I should consider?
Very! To cater to gluten-free needs, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. For a lighter option, turkey sausage can be substituted in place of kielbasa or andouille without sacrificing flavor.
How can I avoid overcooked shrimp?
To ensure perfectly cooked shrimp, watch for them turning pink and curling into a C shape, which indicates they’re done. Cook them for just 1–2 minutes per side, and don’t overcrowd the pan to allow for proper searing.
Savor the Flavor: Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Broccoli Skillet
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger if using. Add a dash of sriracha and a drizzle of sesame oil. Set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced sausage and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove sausage from skillet, keeping rendered fat.
- Add broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes. Add water, cover, and steam for 2 minutes until tender-crisp. Push broccoli to one side.
- On the cleared side, add large shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until pink. Avoid overcrowding.
- Return seared sausage back to the skillet, mix with shrimp and broccoli. Pour sauce over everything, stir gently. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and sesame seeds. Serve hot, either in the skillet or over rice or noodles.
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