Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe
If you love a dish that combines sweet, savory, and garlicky flavors with succulent shrimp cooked to perfection, then this Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe is going to become one of your all-time favorites. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave something special but fuss-free. Each bite offers a delicious balance of crispy shrimp coated with a luscious honey garlic sauce that’s just begging to be savored.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by fancy ingredients because this Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe shines with simple staples you probably already have at home. Every ingredient plays a vital role, from creating that irresistible crispy texture to infusing the shrimp with a perfectly balanced sauce.
- 2 lbs peeled and deveined shrimp: Fresh or thawed shrimp work best for juicy, tender bites.
- 1 tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and depth to the shrimp coating.
- 1 tsp garlic salt: Combines saltiness with garlicky goodness for extra flavor.
- 1/4 cup corn starch: The key to a crisp, lightly crunchy outer layer.
- 2 Tbsp olive oil: Provides a healthy, flavorful base for cooking shrimp.
- 2 Tbsp butter: Adds richness and helps create a silky sauce.
- 1/2 cup honey: Sweetens the sauce naturally while balancing the soy sauce.
- 2 Tbsp minced garlic: Infuses the dish with vibrant aroma and taste.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Brings savory umami and a touch of saltiness.
- Sliced green onions (optional): Perfect for a fresh, colorful garnish.
How to Make Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Coating
Start by mixing the black pepper, garlic salt, and corn starch in a large bowl. Then gently toss your shrimp in this mixture until each piece is perfectly coated. This step might seem simple, but it’s where the magic begins—it helps form the crisp, slightly crunchy coating that makes every forkful so satisfying.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the shrimp in a single layer to avoid overcrowding—this ensures they cook evenly and get that beautiful golden edge. Cook them for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and develop just a hint of crispiness. Once done, transfer the shrimp to a plate and keep them warm.
Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Then add the minced garlic and let it sauté briefly—just about 30 seconds—until your kitchen fills with that incredible garlic aroma. Next, pour in the honey and soy sauce, stirring everything together. Let the sauce cook for a few minutes until it thickens just right, becoming glossy and rich.
Step 4: Combine Shrimp and Sauce
Return the cooked shrimp back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together lovingly so every shrimp is coated with that luscious honey garlic glaze. Let them cook together for another minute or two to soak up the flavors deeply and heat through perfectly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is ready, remove the skillet from heat. For extra freshness and a pop of color, sprinkle the shrimp with sliced green onions if you like. Serve immediately while warm, over fluffy rice or your favorite sides—it will disappear fast!
How to Serve Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of sliced green onions not only adds a fresh crunch but also brightens up the dish visually. For an extra touch, you can add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a few red pepper flakes for mild heat, depending on your mood.
Side Dishes
This Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option. You can also serve it alongside sautéed vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or a crisp Asian slaw to balance the sweetness with some crunch and color.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the shrimp over a bed of buttery garlic noodles or wrap them in lettuce cups for a handheld treat perfect for casual meals or entertaining. Another fun idea is to load these shrimp into tacos topped with avocado and a squeeze of lime for a flavorful twist that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to two days, making for an easy lunch or quick dinner the next day.
Freezing
While shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place the cooked shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Frozen shrimp will keep well for up to one month without losing much of their texture or flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave at short intervals to avoid overcooking. Adding a splash of water or sauce while reheating will help maintain moisture and keep the shrimp tender and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp in this Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before coating and cooking. This step prevents excess moisture, ensuring you get that perfect crispy texture.
Is this recipe spicy?
This Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe is naturally sweet and savory without any heat. However, if you love spice, feel free to add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for a little kick.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos, and ensure your corn starch is gluten-free, and you’re good to go.
How long does it take to make this dish?
This recipe is done in about 17 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick and delicious meal after a busy day.
What can I serve instead of rice?
If you’re looking for alternatives to rice, try serving the shrimp over noodles, spiralized veggies, or even mashed potatoes for a comforting and tasty twist.
Final Thoughts
This Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe is a delightful crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity and incredible flavor in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, it’s sure to become a quick favorite in your culinary rotation. So grab those shrimp, whip up this sauce, and get ready to enjoy a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate!
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Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Honey Garlic Shrimp recipe offers a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors with a crispy shrimp coating and a silky honey garlic soy sauce. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s an excellent meal for busy weeknights that delivers restaurant-quality taste right from your stovetop.
Ingredients
Shrimp Coating
- 2 lbs peeled and deveined shrimp, cleaned and patted dry
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 1/4 cup corn starch
For Cooking
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 Tbsp butter
Sauce
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
Optional Garnish
- Sliced green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a large bowl, whisk together the black pepper, garlic salt, and cornstarch until well combined. Add the shrimp and toss until each piece is evenly coated. This will help create a crispy exterior once cooked.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer, cooking in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Cook each side for 1-2 minutes until the shrimp turns pink and slightly crispy. Transfer cooked shrimp to a plate and set aside.
- Make the Honey Garlic Sauce: Using the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the honey and soy sauce, cooking the sauce for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the shrimp to the skillet with the sauce. Toss thoroughly to coat all shrimp evenly. Continue cooking for 1-2 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the dish to heat through.
- Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions if desired. Serve immediately over rice or with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp are patted dry before coating to help the cornstarch adhere better and get crispier.
- Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking shrimp to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- The sauce thickens as it simmers; do not overcook to avoid burning the honey.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
- Customize sweetness by adjusting honey quantity to your preference.
- Serve with steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh vegetable side for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
