If you’re craving a quick and flavorful meal that’s packed with protein and veggies, our Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli recipe is just what you need. This dish combines the sweet and savory flavors of honey and garlic with tender shrimp and savory sausage, making every bite a delicious experience.
We love how easy it is to whip up this recipe on busy weeknights without sacrificing taste or nutrition. The broccoli adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color, balancing the rich flavors perfectly. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens while enjoying a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
To create our vibrant Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli dish, we rely on fresh, flavorful ingredients that come together effortlessly. Below are the carefully measured components divided by their role in the recipe to ensure a perfect balance of taste and texture.
For the Honey Garlic Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a mild kick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sausage and Broccoli
- 12 ounces smoked sausage (sliced into ½-inch pieces)
- 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh, washed, and trimmed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Sauce Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Soy sauce | 3 tablespoons | Adds umami and salty depth |
| Honey | 2 tablespoons | Provides sweet balance |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon | Enhances garlic flavor |
| Rice vinegar | 1 tablespoon | Adds subtle acidity |
| Cornstarch | 1 teaspoon | Thickens sauce |
| Water | ¼ cup | Dilutes sauce to perfect texture |
Using a combination of honey and soy sauce creates the signature sweet and savory glaze that defines our Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli recipe.
Equipment Needed
To create our Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli recipe efficiently, we need to gather the right equipment. Having these tools ready will streamline the cooking process and ensure perfect results every time.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large skillet or sauté pan | For cooking shrimp, sausage, and broccoli evenly |
| Mixing bowl | To combine the honey garlic sauce ingredients |
| Measuring spoons | For accurate measurement of spices and liquids |
| Measuring cups | For liquid and dry ingredient precision |
| Sharp chef’s knife | To slice sausage and chop broccoli florets |
| Cutting board | Safe surface to prepare all fresh ingredients |
| Whisk or fork | To thoroughly mix the sauce until smooth |
| Tongs or spatula | To turn shrimp and sausage for even cooking |
| Small bowl | For combining cornstarch with water (slurry) |
We rely on these key tools to balance quick cooking with even heat distribution, allowing the honey garlic glaze to coat each ingredient perfectly. Ensuring we have the right setup helps us bring out the dish’s signature sweet and savory flavors while maintaining broccoli’s fresh crunch.
Prep Work
Before we start cooking, proper prep is essential for a seamless and flavorful Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli experience. Let’s break down each component carefully.
Prepping the Shrimp
- Start with 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Removing the shell and vein ensures a clean texture and better flavor absorption.
- Pat the shrimp dry thoroughly using paper towels. This step helps the shrimp to sear perfectly and prevents steaming.
- Optionally, season lightly with salt and pepper to enhance the base flavor before cooking.
Preparing the Sausage
- Choose 12 ounces of smoked sausage, preferably fully cooked and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the sausage evenly to guarantee uniform cooking and ease during serving.
- Set the sausage slices aside, ready to be sautéed alongside the shrimp for maximum flavor integration.
Washing and Cutting the Broccoli
- Wash 2 cups of broccoli florets thoroughly under cold running water.
- Trim the broccoli into bite-sized florets—each about 1 to 1.5 inches. This size allows even cooking and retains a satisfying crunch.
- Dry the broccoli well after washing to maintain texture and prevent splattering during sautéing.
Making the Sauce
We create a signature sweet and savory glaze by combining the following ingredients.
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Honey | 3 tablespoons |
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Rice vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Cornstarch | 1 teaspoon |
| Cold water | 2 tablespoons |
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, and rice vinegar until smooth.
- In a separate small bowl, prepare a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch and cold water until dissolved.
- Combine the slurry into the sauce blend just before cooking—this guarantees the perfect thick glaze that clings to the shrimp, sausage, and broccoli.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s bring together the vibrant flavors of our Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli dish with precise cooking techniques. Follow these steps closely to achieve the perfect balance of texture and glaze.
Cooking the Sausage
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Once the oil shimmers, add the sliced smoked sausage rounds in a single layer.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, turning with tongs until they develop a crispy, brown exterior.
- Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Sautéing the Shrimp
- In the same skillet, add an additional 1 teaspoon of olive oil if needed.
- Add the prepared shrimp in a single layer, ensuring they are dry to promote searing.
- Sauté for about 2 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Season lightly with salt and black pepper during cooking.
- Remove the shrimp and place them with the cooked sausage, keeping them warm.
Stir-Frying the Broccoli
- Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet and heat over medium-high.
- Toss in the bite-sized broccoli florets.
- Stir-fry the broccoli for 4-5 minutes, stirring constantly to retain crispness but cook through.
- Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper to enhance natural flavors.
- Ensure broccoli remains vibrant green and slightly crunchy for optimal texture.
Combining Ingredients with Sauce
- Reduce heat to medium-low and return the sausage and shrimp to the skillet.
- Give the prepared honey garlic sauce a quick stir and pour it evenly over the sausage, shrimp, and broccoli.
- Whisk together the cornstarch slurry separately then slowly add it to the skillet while stirring constantly.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat all ingredients with a glossy glaze.
- Toss gently with a spatula or tongs until the sweet and savory honey garlic glaze is beautifully distributed.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately to enjoy the full blend of flavors and textures.
| Step | Ingredient(s) | Cooking Time | Key Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sausage | Smoked sausage slices | 3-4 minutes/side | Cook until crispy brown exterior |
| Shrimp | Peeled, deveined shrimp | 2 minutes/side | Use dry shrimp for optimal searing |
| Broccoli | Broccoli florets | 4-5 minutes | Stir-fry until bright green and crisp |
| Combining with sauce | Honey garlic sauce + cornstarch slurry | 2-3 minutes | Stir constantly for glossy thick glaze |
With these precise steps, our Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli will feature perfectly cooked protein and vegetables, united by a luscious honey garlic glaze that tantalizes the taste buds.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli experience, we recommend pairing it thoughtfully and serving it in ways that balance flavors and textures.
1. Pair with a Starch Base
This dish shines when served over a neutral base that soaks up the glaze:
- Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
- Quinoa for a nutty texture
- Garlic butter noodles for added richness
2. Add a Fresh Side Salad
A crisp side salad cuts through the dish’s savory-sweet notes. Try:
- Mixed greens with a light lemon vinaigrette
- Cucumber and tomato salad with fresh herbs
- Asian slaw dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil
3. Garnish for Flavor and Visual Appeal
Top the dish just before serving with:
- Thinly sliced green onions
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro leaves
4. Beverage Pairings
Enhance the meal with complementary drinks:
- A chilled dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
- Sparkling water with a twist of lime
- Iced green tea for a refreshing finish
| Serving Element | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Starch Base | Rice, quinoa, or noodles | Absorb sauce, add heft |
| Fresh Side Salad | Mixed greens or Asian slaw | Refresh palate, add crunch |
| Garnishes | Green onions, sesame, cilantro | Enhance aroma, visual appeal |
| Beverage Pairings | White wine, sparkling water, iced tea | Complement dish flavors |
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To enjoy our Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli Recipe with minimal effort later, follow these make-ahead and storage tips designed to preserve flavor and texture.
Preparing Ahead
- Partially cook the shrimp and sausage until just opaque and browned but not fully done. This prevents overcooking during reheating.
- Blanch the broccoli by briefly boiling for 1 to 2 minutes then plunging into ice water. This retains its vibrant color and crunch.
- Store cooked components separately in airtight containers for best results.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage extends freshness and ensures our dish tastes just as delightful when reheated.
| Ingredient | Storage Method | Refrigeration Time | Freezing Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooked Shrimp | Airtight container | Up to 2 days | Not recommended for freezing |
| Cooked Sausage | Airtight container | Up to 4 days | Up to 1 month |
| Blanched Broccoli | Airtight container | Up to 3 days | Up to 10 months (blanched) |
| Prepared Honey Garlic Sauce | Separate container | Up to 1 week | Up to 3 months |
Reheating Instructions
“When ready to serve, gently reheat all components to bring back that signature sweet and savory glaze without sacrificing texture.”
- Use a skillet over medium heat to reheat shrimp and sausage for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add broccoli last, stir-frying for 1 to 2 minutes to warm without losing crunch.
- Pour the sauce over the ingredients and heat just until bubbling and thickened.
- Avoid microwave reheating if possible to keep the shrimp tender and broccoli crisp.
Tips for Optimal Results
- Reheat in small batches to maintain even temperature and prevent steaming.
- If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to restore consistency.
- Always store sauce separately from cooked ingredients to avoid sogginess during storage.
By following these make-ahead and storage tips, we keep our Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli fresh, flavorful, and ready for effortless meals any day of the week.
Conclusion
This Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli recipe brings together bold flavors and simple prep for a meal that fits perfectly into busy schedules. It’s a versatile dish that’s easy to customize and pairs well with a variety of sides and drinks.
By following the steps and tips we’ve shared, you can enjoy a balanced, protein-packed dinner that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this recipe delivers on taste and convenience every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli?
You need large shrimp, smoked sausage, broccoli, honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
It takes about 20-30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknight meals.
What equipment is essential for cooking this recipe?
A large skillet, mixing bowl, measuring spoons/cups, chef’s knife, cutting board, whisk, tongs or spatula, and a small bowl for the cornstarch slurry.
How do I prepare the shrimp and sausage for cooking?
Peel, devein, and dry the shrimp; slice the smoked sausage evenly.
How is the honey garlic sauce made?
Whisk honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, rice vinegar, and cornstarch slurry together for a sweet, savory glaze.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, partially cook shrimp and sausage, blanch broccoli, store separately in airtight containers for best freshness.
What are good serving suggestions for this dish?
Serve over jasmine rice, quinoa, or noodles, add a fresh side salad, and garnish with green onions or sesame seeds.
How should I reheat leftovers to keep the dish fresh?
Reheat gently in a skillet, add sauce separately to avoid sogginess, and avoid microwaving directly.
Is this recipe healthy and balanced?
Yes, the dish is protein-packed with shrimp and sausage, plus nutritious broccoli for vitamins and fiber.
What drinks pair well with Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli?
Try chilled dry white wine, sparkling water with lime, or iced green tea for a refreshing complement.