This dish features juicy shrimp and tasty sausage, all tossed together with fresh broccoli in a sweet and tangy honey garlic sauce. It’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for busy nights!
My favorite part is how the honey and garlic blend together for a tasty sauce that makes everything come alive. Plus, you can have dinner ready in a flash—winner, winner shrimp dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp work well here. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You could also substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
Smoked sausage: I love using smoked sausage for that traditional flavor. You can replace it with turkey sausage for a lighter option or even plant-based sausage if you prefer a vegetarian dish.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is key for this recipe, but you can swap it out for other vegetables like snap peas, bell peppers, or asparagus if you prefer. Frozen broccoli is also a quick alternative!
Honey: If you’re looking for a vegan option, try maple syrup instead of honey. It gives a nice sweetness that pairs well with the garlic.
Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar adds a nice tang. If you don’t have it, rice vinegar or even lemon juice can also work beautifully.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Shrimp Without Overdoing It?
Cooking shrimp requires a bit of attention, as they can easily become rubbery. Here’s how to ensure they turn out perfectly:
- Start with a hot skillet. This helps sear the shrimp quickly.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side. Watch for the color change; they should turn pink and opaque.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. If you have too many shrimp, consider cooking in batches to ensure even cooking.
Once they’re cooked, immediately remove them from the heat to prevent overcooking. Enjoy your perfectly cooked shrimp in this delicious dish!
Savory Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage with Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 oz (340g) smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra savory flavor)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes of preparation and 15-20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes for a delicious homemade meal that comes together quickly! Perfect for a busy weeknight or a quick weekend meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and then pat them dry with a paper towel. Next, slice the smoked sausage into 1/2-inch pieces, and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Finally, mince the garlic and set everything aside for easy access during cooking.
2. Whip Up the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and vinegar. Use a whisk to blend it all together thoroughly. This sauce is the star of your dish, bringing that perfect sweet and savory flavor!
3. Cook the Sausage:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the sliced sausage. Cook it while stirring occasionally until it gets browned and slightly crispy, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Broccoli:
In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until they turn a bright green color and are tender-crisp. When the broccoli is ready, take it out and set it aside with the sausage.
5. Cook the Shrimp:
Add a bit more oil to the skillet if necessary. Then, add the shrimp and season lightly with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. This is where it starts to smell really good!
6. Combine Everything:
Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Return the cooked sausage and broccoli to the skillet with the shrimp. Pour the honey garlic sauce over everything and stir well to coat all the ingredients evenly. Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes, which will help the sauce thicken slightly and glaze the shrimp and veggies.
7. Serve It Up:
Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color. Serve immediately as is, or over a bed of rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal. Enjoy your flavorful, savory honey garlic shrimp and sausage with tender broccoli!
FAQ for Savory Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage with Broccoli
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Smoked Sausage?
If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey sausage or chicken sausage are great lighter options. For a vegetarian meal, try using plant-based sausage or even a mixture of mushrooms and bell peppers for that savory flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! If you love heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the shrimp or drizzle some sriracha on top just before serving. Adjust the spice to your personal taste!
