Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp is a quick and delicious dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or an easy appetizer. The shrimp are cooked in a rich sauce made with honey, garlic, butter, and soy sauce, creating a sweet and savory combination that’s hard to resist. Ready in under 20 minutes, this dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or vegetables for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger for extra flavor
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil for a nutty twist
For Serving:
- Steamed rice or quinoa
- Pasta or zoodles (zucchini noodles)
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Season the shrimp with a little salt and pepper, and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Honey Garlic Butter Sauce
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, garlic, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set the sauce aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, pour in the honey garlic sauce and bring it to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the sauce to coat evenly.
- Let the shrimp cook for another 1-2 minutes in the sauce until heated through.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro and serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Cooking Notes
- Shrimp: Be sure not to overcook the shrimp, as they will become rubbery. They should turn pink and opaque when done.
- Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer the sauce for an extra few minutes before adding the shrimp back to the skillet.
Variations
1. Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp
Add 1-2 teaspoons of Sriracha or hot sauce to the honey garlic sauce for an extra spicy kick.
2. Honey Garlic Shrimp with Vegetables
Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli to the skillet before tossing in the shrimp for a complete one-pan meal.
3. Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry
Turn this recipe into a stir-fry by adding stir-fried veggies like snow peas and serving over rice noodles or rice.
4. Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
For a more citrusy flavor, add more lemon juice and some lemon zest to the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp ahead of time?
It’s best to cook this dish fresh, as shrimp can become rubbery when reheated. However, you can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat.
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! If using frozen shrimp, thaw them in the refrigerator or under cold running water before cooking.
Q: Can I make this recipe with other proteins?
Yes! You can use chicken, salmon, or tofu in place of shrimp for a delicious variation.
This Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp is a quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy nights or a special dinner. With a delicious combination of sweet honey, savory garlic, and buttery shrimp, it’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Serve it over rice or pasta with your favorite veggies for a complete meal!
