The sizzle of shrimp hitting a hot pan. The intoxicating aroma of garlic, sweet honey, and a hint of soy sauce filling the air. That’s the symphony that signals the start of a quick, satisfying weeknight meal in my kitchen. My love affair with honey garlic shrimp began with a simple craving for Asian takeout, but after countless attempts, I nailed a version that’s even better (and definitely faster!). It’s the ultimate balance of savory, sweet, and umami, all coated on perfectly cooked, juicy shrimp.
This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. From its dazzling gloss to its deeply satisfying flavor, honey garlic shrimp is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for a speedy dinner after a long day, a casual get-together with friends, or even a quick, impressive appetizer. The best part? You can have this Honey Garlic Shrimp on your table in just 15 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Lightning-fast: Ready in under 15 minutes.
- Flavor explosion: The perfect balance of sweet, savory, and garlicky.
- Incredibly tender: Shrimp cooked to juicy perfection.
- Versatile: Serve over rice, noodles, or as an appetizer.
- Crowd-pleasing: Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples, easily accessible.
Ingredients Breakdown
- Shrimp: The star! I prefer using large or jumbo shrimp (21-25 count) that are peeled and deveined. You can use fresh or frozen (thawed) shrimp. Ensure they are patted dry before cooking for optimal browning.
- Honey: This adds the perfect sweetness and helps create that beautiful, sticky glaze. Use your favorite local honey for the best flavor!
- Garlic: The pungent backbone of this dish. Freshly minced garlic is essential for that classic honey garlic shrimp flavor! Don’t skimp on it!
- Soy Sauce: Adds the savory, umami element. I recommend low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness. Tamari (gluten-free) can be used as a substitute.
- Olive Oil: High quality olive oil, for searing the shrimp.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a touch of heat, optional. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can omit them, but I highly encourage you to add a pinch!
- Cornstarch: This helps thicken the sauce and gives it that beautiful glossy shine. You can also use arrowroot powder as a substitute.
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Large skillet or wok
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk (optional, for mixing the sauce)
You can use a regular skillet, but a wok’s slanted sides allow the honey garlic sauce to really coat the shrimp as it cooks.
How to Make Honey Garlic Shrimp
- Prepare the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a good sear.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, olive oil cornstarch and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Heat the skillet: Add olive oil to a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Ensure the pan is hot before adding the shrimp.
- Sear the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer (work in batches if necessary). Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and slightly opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they will become rubbery!
- Add the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the sauce: Pour the honey garlic glaze over the shrimp.
- Simmer the sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce has thickened and the shrimp is fully coated and glistening.
- Serve immediately: Garnish with chopped scallions or sesame seeds (optional). Serve hot over rice, noodles, or as desired.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the shrimp in batches to ensure even cooking and proper browning, 1.3 lbs is ideal in this recipe.
- Pat the shrimp dry: This is essential for achieving a good sear.
- Watch the garlic: Garlic burns easily, so be sure to keep a close eye on it and cook it for just 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more honey for sweetness, soy sauce for saltiness, or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Garnish generously: A sprinkle of chopped scallions or sesame seeds adds a pop of color and flavor.
Variations & Dietary Swaps
- Gluten-free: Use tamari (gluten-free soy sauce) instead of regular soy sauce.
- Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for extra heat.
- Vegetarian: Substitute the shrimp with tofu or broccoli florets. Adjust cooking time accordingly. You could also add a tablespoon of brown sugar, in addition to the honey.
Serving Suggestions
- Rice or Noodles: Serve over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or your favorite noodles.
- Vegetables: Pair with steamed broccoli, stir-fried vegetables, or a crisp salad.
- Garnishes: Sprinkle with chopped scallions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sesame oil.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover honey garlic shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Microwaving may make the shrimp rubbery.
Frequently Asked Questions
I hope you’ll try this Honey Garlic Shrimp recipe soon! It’s a guaranteed win and a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal in minutes. The simple combination of sweet, savory, and garlicky flavors make it irresistible.
What are your favorite ways to enjoy honey garlic shrimp? Let me know in the comments below! Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share it with your friends! Follow Culinary Craving on Instagram and Facebook for more easy and delicious recipes.
Related Recipes
- Garlic Noodles: A simple side dish that pairs perfectly with Honey Garlic Shrimp.
- Spicy Sesame Chicken: Another quick and easy Asian-inspired dish with a kick.
- Shrimp Scampi Pasta: A classic Italian dish with juicy shrimp and a garlicky butter sauce.
Honey Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Chopped scallions or sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, cornstarch, olive oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and slightly opaque.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Pour the honey garlic sauce over the shrimp.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce has thickened and the shrimp is fully coated.
- Garnish with chopped scallions or sesame seeds (optional). Serve hot over rice, noodles, or as desired.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari (gluten-free soy sauce).
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
- Do not overcook the shrimp, as they will become rubbery.