Honey-Garlic Shrimp Recipe

If you’re craving something that’s both sweet and savory, incredibly quick, and impossibly delicious, Honey-Garlic Shrimp has your name written all over it. This dish delivers plump, juicy shrimp shimmering in a glossy honey-garlic glaze, with hints of ginger and a touch of umami—ready in under an hour (most of that hands-off!).

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Ingredients You’ll Need

One of my favorite things about this Honey-Garlic Shrimp recipe is just how simple the ingredients are—each one truly brings something special to the table, whether it’s umami depth, a buttery crunch, or an irresistible kick of sweet heat.

• Large raw shrimp (16-20 count), peeled and deveined: Go for big, plump shrimp for the juiciest texture and most dramatic presentation.
• Minced fresh garlic: The star of the show—freshly minced garlic brings out robust, aromatic flavor you just can’t fake.
• Mild-flavored honey: Honey sweetens and balances the tang and saltiness, making the glaze shiny and sticky.
• Freshly grated ginger: Ginger brightens up the whole dish, cutting through the sweetness with just the right amount of zing.
• Soy sauce: Adds umami depth and savory saltiness; start with the amount listed and adjust later to suit your taste buds.
• Asian fish sauce: Just a splash adds complexity and a touch of “what is that?” savoriness—don’t worry, it won’t make things fishy!
• Vegetable oil: For that perfect, golden sear in the skillet.
• Thinly sliced green onion: For a pop of color, freshness, and a lovely onion-y bite right at the end.

Variations

The beauty of Honey-Garlic Shrimp is how easy it is to adapt to your taste buds, pantry, or dietary needs—don’t be afraid to make it your own! These simple twists will keep things exciting every time you cook.

• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for heat-lovers.
• Citrus Twist: Swap in a squeeze of fresh lime or orange juice for the ginger to add a subtle citrusy spark.
• Vegetarian Version: Use cubed tofu or tempeh in place of shrimp, keeping the marinade and cooking method just the same.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a wheat-free meal.

How to Make Honey-Garlic Shrimp

Step 1: Thaw and Prep Shrimp

Make sure your shrimp are fully thawed and thoroughly drained for the best texture. I like to keep them chilling in the fridge while I prep the marinade—keeping them cold helps maintain that signature plump, juicy bite.

Step 2: Mix Up the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, honey, grated ginger, soy sauce, and fish sauce until everything is beautifully combined. That aroma—sweet, savory, and just a little funky—is pure magic!

Step 3: Marinate the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss gently but thoroughly for about two minutes, making sure every shrimp is coated. Cover the bowl and let them marinate in the fridge for 30–60 minutes, giving them a toss or two while you wait.

Step 4: Sear Shrimp in a Hot Skillet

Brush your largest nonstick skillet with vegetable oil and preheat it over high heat. You’ll want it hot enough to see small wisps of smoke—that’s your cue! Quickly lay the shrimp in a single layer, reserving the extra marinade for later.

Step 5: Glaze and Finish

Sear shrimp for two minutes, turn them over, then pour in all the reserved marinade. Cook for one minute more, turn off the heat, flip the shrimp once again, and let everything sit in the pan for another minute. The sauce will thicken into a glorious glaze—all that’s left is a generous shower of green onions!

How to Serve Honey-Garlic Shrimp

Garnishes

I love showering my Honey-Garlic Shrimp with extra sliced green onions for color and crunch. Try a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a little chopped fresh cilantro if you want even more vibrancy—each adds a lovely visual flair and a subtle note of flavor.

Side Dishes

Honey-Garlic Shrimp shines brightest against a bed of fluffy jasmine rice, but it’s also dreamy served with brown rice, quinoa, or your favorite stir-fried veggies. For something lighter, pile the shrimp onto crisp lettuce cups or pair with a bright cucumber salad.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun appetizer twist, skewer the shrimp and glaze with leftover sauce under the broiler for a party platter. Or tuck into soft tortillas with cabbage slaw for honey-garlic shrimp tacos. The glaze also makes these irresistible atop a grain bowl with avocado and quick-pickled veggies!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer leftover shrimp (with any glaze) to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. The flavors will continue to meld, making leftovers almost as delicious as the first bite!

Freezing

Cooked Honey-Garlic Shrimp can be frozen, but the texture of shrimp is always best right after cooking. If you must freeze, spread shrimp on a baking sheet, freeze till solid, then store in a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before gently reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or extra glaze until just warmed through—shrimp heat up fast, so don’t overdo it or they’ll become rubbery.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a quick, flavor-packed dinner that feels like a treat, this Honey-Garlic Shrimp will absolutely win over your heart (and taste buds!). Give it a try, make it your own, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to weeknight hero.

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