Are you looking for a fast, flavorful, and satisfying dinner option that doesn’t sacrifice nutrition for taste? Look no further. This Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli recipe is the ultimate blend of sweet, savory, and satisfying flavors, perfect for busy weeknights, family meals, or even special gatherings. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and minimal prep time, you can bring restaurant-quality seafood to your kitchen in under 30 minutes.
In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know—from ingredient selection and preparation to expert cooking tips, storage methods, serving ideas, and more. Whether you’re a beginner home cook or an experienced food lover, this recipe is sure to become a regular favorite in your meal rotation.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you enjoy dishes that are quick to prepare, bursting with flavor, and visually appealing, this one’s for you.
- Fast and Simple – From prep to plate in under 30 minutes.
- One-Pan Meal – Fewer dishes, less hassle.
- Versatile – Easily customize the veggies, spice level, or protein.
- Nutrient-Rich – Loaded with lean protein, vitamins, and healthy fats.
- Family Friendly – Loved by adults and kids alike.
Is This Dish Healthy? Nutritional Breakdown
Yes! This shrimp and broccoli combo packs a powerful nutritional punch.
| Nutrient | Value (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~330 kcal |
| Protein | 28–32g |
| Carbohydrates | 15–20g (mostly from honey) |
| Fat | 12–15g |
| Fiber | 3–4g |
| Sugar | 8–10g (from natural honey) |
Key Health Benefits:
- Shrimp is high in lean protein and low in saturated fat.
- Broccoli provides essential fiber, antioxidants, and Vitamin C.
- Garlic supports heart health and immune function.
- Honey, when used in moderation, offers natural sweetness without refined sugar.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of fresh, flavorful, and pantry-friendly ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For the Honey Garlic Sauce
- 3 tablespoons pure honey
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker sauce)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Optional Garnishes
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
- Fresh lime wedges
How to Choose the Best Shrimp and Broccoli
Choosing Shrimp:
- Fresh vs Frozen: Both are great. If using frozen, thaw under cold water and pat dry before cooking.
- Size Matters: Go for large or jumbo shrimp for a meaty texture and better presentation.
- Peeled & Deveined: Saves you time and effort.
Choosing Broccoli:
- Look for bright green florets with tight buds and no yellowing.
- Stalks should feel firm, not soft or rubbery.
- Organic options are ideal for maximum flavor and fewer pesticides.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow this process to ensure every bite is deliciously coated in sweet, garlicky, buttery goodness.
🔹 Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Rinse shrimp under cold water and pat dry.
- Cut broccoli into bite-sized florets.
- Mince garlic finely.
🔹 Step 2: Steam or Blanch Broccoli
- Bring a pot of water to a boil or use a steamer basket.
- Steam broccoli for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Drain and set aside. It should still be vibrant green.
🔹 Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Melted butter
- Honey
- Soy sauce
- Garlic
- Cornstarch (if using)
- Red pepper flakes
Set aside.
🔹 Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add shrimp in a single layer.
- Cook for 2 minutes per side until pink and slightly curled.
🔹 Step 5: Add Sauce and Broccoli
- Pour sauce over the shrimp in the skillet.
- Add steamed broccoli.
- Toss everything until well-coated.
- Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes so the sauce thickens and glazes the ingredients.
🔹 Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Transfer to plates.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
- Optional: squeeze a little lime juice on top.
Expert Tips to Elevate Your Dish
- Marinate for Flavor Boost
Let shrimp sit in half the sauce for 15 minutes before cooking for deeper flavor. - Use a Wok for Authentic Texture
A wok gives high heat and even cooking, perfect for stir-fries. - Make It a Meal Prep Favorite
Double the batch and portion into containers for healthy lunches. - Don’t Skip Fresh Garlic
Jarred or powdered garlic won’t give the same bold flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp should be pink and curled in a C shape. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and dry.
- Using Too Much Sauce: A little goes a long way. Avoid drenching the dish.
- Skipping the Cornstarch: If you want a thicker glaze, this is key.
- Cooking Broccoli Too Long: It should remain crisp-tender to avoid mushy texture.
Delicious Serving Suggestions
Make this dish shine with complementary sides and drinks:
🌾 With Grains
- Jasmine rice
- Brown rice
- Quinoa
- Rice noodles
🍞 With Bread
- Garlic bread
- Crusty sourdough
- Pita wedges
🥗 As a Bowl
- Over mixed greens for a warm salad
- In a wrap with shredded carrots and cabbage
🍷 Drink Pairing
- Sparkling water with lime
- Dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)
- Ginger tea or iced green tea
Storage and Meal Prep
Make-Ahead Tips:
- Shrimp can be marinated for up to 1 hour in advance.
- Broccoli can be cut and steamed ahead, stored in airtight containers for 2 days.
How to Store:
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For freezing, place cooled shrimp and broccoli in freezer-safe bags for up to 1 month.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium, add a splash of water.
- Microwave: Cover loosely and heat on medium power for 2 minutes, stir halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓ Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
❓ What’s a good substitute for soy sauce?
Try tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
❓ Is this dish keto-friendly?
Use a sugar-free honey substitute and serve without rice to make it low-carb.
❓ Can I make this vegetarian?
Swap shrimp for tofu, tempeh, or mushrooms for a plant-based twist.
Printable Recipe Card
🧾 Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp cornstarch (optional)
Instructions
- Prep shrimp and broccoli. Steam broccoli 3–4 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix honey, butter, soy sauce, garlic, and cornstarch.
- Sauté shrimp in oil for 2 minutes per side.
- Add sauce and broccoli to pan. Stir and simmer 2 minutes.
- Serve hot with rice or veggies. Enjoy!
Final Thoughts
This Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli recipe proves that cooking delicious, healthy meals at home doesn’t have to be complicated. It combines convenience with gourmet flavor, perfect for any home cook looking to elevate their weekday dinner game.
Whether you’re new to cooking or just tired of boring weeknight meals, this dish brings the flavor, freshness, and comfort all in one pan.
