Honey Garlic Shrimp with Broccoli: Sweet, Savory, and Ready in Minutes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honey Garlic Shrimp with Broccoli is a fast, flavorful dish that proves simple ingredients can deliver impressive results. Juicy shrimp are coated in a glossy honey garlic sauce that balances sweetness with savory depth, while crisp-tender broccoli adds freshness and texture. I enjoy this recipe because it comes together quickly without sacrificing flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights when time is limited but expectations are still high. I first made this dish when I needed a reliable meal that felt lighter yet satisfying, and it has remained a favorite ever since. The sauce clings beautifully to the shrimp and vegetables, making every bite well seasoned and comforting. Served over rice or enjoyed on its own, this recipe is dependable, versatile, and consistently delicious.

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Ingredients

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

Shrimp
Shrimp are the main protein in this dish. They cook quickly and absorb the sauce well, resulting in tender, flavorful bites.

Broccoli florets
Broccoli adds color, crunch, and balance. It pairs well with the sweetness of the honey garlic sauce and keeps the dish feeling fresh.

Honey
Honey provides natural sweetness and helps create the glossy texture of the sauce.

Garlic
Garlic brings bold aroma and savory depth, forming the backbone of the sauce’s flavor.

Soy sauce
Soy sauce adds saltiness and umami, balancing the sweetness of the honey.

Olive oil
Olive oil is used for sautéing and helps prevent sticking while adding subtle richness.

Cornstarch
Cornstarch thickens the sauce slightly, helping it cling to the shrimp and broccoli.

Black pepper
Black pepper adds gentle heat and depth.

Red pepper flakes
Red pepper flakes provide optional heat and contrast to the sweet sauce.

Lemon juice
Lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the richness of the sauce.

Directions

Begin by patting the shrimp dry and seasoning lightly with black pepper. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, garlic, lemon juice, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes until smooth. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the broccoli and sauté briefly until just tender, then remove and set aside. In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque. Pour the honey garlic sauce into the skillet and return the broccoli to the pan. Stir gently and allow the sauce to simmer until thickened and glossy, coating the shrimp and broccoli evenly. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves four people. Preparation takes approximately 10 minutes, with a cooking time of about 15 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a small splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Variations and Customizations

Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp
Increase red pepper flakes or add chili paste for more heat.

Teriyaki-Style Version
Replace part of the soy sauce with teriyaki sauce for a deeper flavor.

Vegetable Swap
Use snap peas, bell peppers, or green beans instead of broccoli.

Low-Carb Option
Serve over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.

Ginger Honey Shrimp
Add freshly grated ginger for extra warmth and aroma.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Should I cook shrimp with tails on?

Either works, but tails-off is easier for eating.

How do I avoid overcooking shrimp?

Remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque.

Can I make this dish ahead?

It is best served fresh, but leftovers reheat well.

Is this recipe very sweet?

The sweetness is balanced by soy sauce and garlic.

Can I use another sweetener?

Yes, maple syrup works as an alternative.

What rice pairs best with this?

Jasmine or basmati rice complements it well.

Can I add more sauce?

Yes, simply double the sauce ingredients.

Is this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce if needed.

Can I use chicken instead of shrimp?

Yes, sliced chicken breast works well with longer cooking time.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Shrimp with Broccoli is a quick, flavorful recipe that delivers the perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite. With minimal prep and reliable results, it is an excellent choice for weeknight dinners that feel both satisfying and thoughtfully prepared.

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