Honey Garlic Shrimp is a quick and flavorful dish featuring juicy shrimp glazed in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need an impressive yet easy dinner. With just a few pantry staples and under 30 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready to serve over rice, noodles, or vegetables.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

shrimp (peeled and deveined)
honey
soy sauce
garlic (minced)
ginger (optional, freshly grated)
olive oil or sesame oil
green onions (for garnish)
red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

directions

In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger (if using). Set aside.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 1-2 minutes per side, until they start to turn pink.

Pour in the honey garlic sauce and stir to coat the shrimp.

Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the shrimp to cook through.

Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.

Serve immediately over steamed rice, noodles, or your choice of vegetables.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 3-4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 5-7 minutes
Total time: 15-17 minutes

Variations

Use chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different protein option.
Add broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas to make it a complete stir-fry.
Substitute maple syrup for honey for a slightly different flavor profile.
Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the shrimp tender.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

Do I need to marinate the shrimp?

No marinating is needed, but you can let them sit in the sauce for 10-15 minutes for deeper flavor.

Is this dish spicy?

It’s not unless you add red pepper flakes. Adjust to your heat preference.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Fresh or raw shrimp is preferred, but if using pre-cooked shrimp, just warm them in the sauce briefly.

What type of honey works best?

Any natural honey will work—choose a mild one to let the garlic shine.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Shrimp is a go-to recipe for a fast, flavorful, and satisfying meal. Whether you serve it with rice, veggies, or noodles, it delivers bold taste with minimal effort. Keep this dish in your rotation for those nights when you want something delicious and fuss-free.