Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli

If you’re looking for a quick and delightful dinner that brings everyone to the table, look no further than this Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli recipe! This dish has become a staple in my home because it’s not just easy to whip up, but it also packs a punch of flavor that even the pickiest eaters will love. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this meal is sure to impress without the stress.

The combination of juicy shrimp with tender broccoli, all coated in a luscious honey garlic butter sauce, is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s one of those meals that can easily be prepped ahead of time, making your evenings smoother and more enjoyable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: The sweet and savory flavors are perfect for kids and adults alike, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome shrimp and broccoli, this dish is nutritious without sacrificing taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice or pasta, allowing everyone to customize their plate.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: The components can be prepped in advance for an even easier cooking process during hectic nights!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple and wholesome ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you need for your Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli:

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium)
• 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger (or 1/4 teaspoon ground)
• 2 tablespoons garlic (minced)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

For the Shrimp and Broccoli

• 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined; tails removed if desired)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups broccoli (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Thickening

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

Variations

This Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add some sriracha for a bit more heat!
• Use alternative sweeteners: If you’re looking to cut down on sugar, try using agave syrup or maple syrup instead of honey.

How to Make Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Mixing these ingredients creates a delightful marinade that melds sweet and savory flavors together. Make sure everything is well combined so every bite is full of flavor!

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

Take your cleaned shrimp and place them in another bowl. Pour about one-third of your prepared sauce over them. This step helps infuse the shrimp with flavor as they marinate while you prep other ingredients.

Step 3: Thicken Your Sauce

Whisk in cornstarch into the reserved marinade until smooth. This will help thicken your sauce later on, giving it that perfect glossy finish when cooked.

Step 4: Cook the Broccoli

Heat a skillet or wok over high heat. Add olive oil along with your bite-sized broccoli pieces sprinkled with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes until they are tender yet still vibrant. Removing them from the pan ensures they don’t overcook while you prepare the shrimp.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

Add butter to your skillet and then toss in your marinated shrimp (discarding any leftover marinade). Cook them for about two minutes on each side until they turn pink. This step is crucial as perfectly cooked shrimp are juicy and tender!

Step 6: Add Your Sauce

Pour in your reserved sauce mixture into the skillet with cooked shrimp. Bring it to a low-medium simmer so that it thickens nicely—this should take about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats everything beautifully!

Step 7: Incorporate the Broccoli

Finally, add your sautéed broccoli back into the skillet. Toss everything together until heated through—this creates a harmonious blend of flavors that makes each bite memorable.

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Dish out generous portions over rice or pasta for an unforgettable meal that’s both satisfying and comforting. Enjoy every delicious bite of your homemade Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli!

Pro Tips for Making Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli

Cooking can be a breeze when you know a few helpful tips! Here are some pro tips to ensure your Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli turns out perfectly every time.

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Having all your ingredients chopped and measured before you start cooking will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. This way, you can focus on cooking rather than scrambling to grab items mid-recipe.
• Use Fresh Shrimp: Whenever possible, opt for fresh shrimp instead of frozen. Fresh shrimp tends to have a better flavor and texture, which enhances the overall dish significantly.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a bit more heat, feel free to increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce. This will give your dish an exciting kick!
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep a close eye on the shrimp while cooking; they cook quickly! Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so remove them from the skillet as soon as they turn pink.
• Experiment with Vegetables: While broccoli is delicious in this recipe, don’t hesitate to switch it up with other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas. This not only adds variety but also boosts the nutritional content of your meal.

How to Serve Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli

Presentation can elevate a simple dish into something truly special! Here are some serving ideas that will make your Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli shine on the table.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a fresh flavor and vibrant color.
• Sesame Seeds: A light sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a nutty crunch that complements the sweetness of the honey garlic sauce.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Rice: A classic pairing, steamed rice absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully, making every bite delightful.
• Quinoa Salad: For a nutritious twist, serve alongside a quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate while adding that comforting touch to your meal.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple mixed greens salad dressed lightly with olive oil and vinegar provides a fresh balance to the rich flavors of the shrimp dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create not just a meal but an experience! Enjoy every bite of your delicious Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade meals throughout the week without the stress. It’s easy to store and reheat, ensuring you can savor every bite even on busy days!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the shrimp and broccoli into freezer-safe containers.
• Make sure to leave some space at the top of each container for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen leftovers in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dish!

Can I make Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prep. Just follow the storage instructions above.

What can I serve with Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli?

You can serve this tasty dish over rice or pasta. It also pairs wonderfully with quinoa or steamed vegetables for a healthy side!

Is Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli a healthy option?

Yes! This recipe is packed with protein from the shrimp and fiber from the broccoli, making it a nutritious choice for dinner.

How do I customize my Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas, or adjust the spice level by adding more red pepper flakes according to your taste!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli recipe as much as I do! It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors while being quick enough for any weeknight dinner. Enjoy every bite, share it with loved ones, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients. Happy cooking!