Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli Recipe

My family and I are always on the lookout for quick, flavorful, and healthy weeknight meals, and this Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli recipe has become a true staple in our rotation. What I love most about it is how incredibly versatile it is – you get a delicious protein punch from the shrimp and sausage, the satisfying crunch of broccoli, and it’s all coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce that’s simply irresistible. Even my pickiest eater, my youngest, who usually turns up his nose at anything green, happily devours the broccoli in this dish! It’s a fantastic way to get everyone to eat their vegetables without any complaints. Plus, it comes together so quickly, making it perfect for those busy evenings when time is of the essence but you still want a home-cooked, wholesome meal. From the vibrant colors on the plate to the explosion of flavors in every bite, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I’m excited to share all the secrets to making it perfect every time.

Ingredients

To create this flavorful and satisfying Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli dish, you’ll need a handful of fresh, high-quality ingredients. The combination of sweet honey, savory garlic, and robust sausage creates a symphony of flavors that perfectly complement the succulent shrimp and tender-crisp broccoli. Using fresh, quality ingredients will truly elevate the dish and make it a memorable meal. Don’t be tempted to skimp on the garlic or honey – these are key components that bring the whole recipe together.

Here’s a detailed list of everything you’ll need:

• Shrimp: 1 pound, large or jumbo, peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen shrimp will work. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. Larger shrimp are preferred as they are more substantial and hold up better during cooking, but medium shrimp can also be used if that’s what you have on hand. Look for shrimp that are pink and firm, without any fishy odor.
• Sausage: 1 pound, Italian sausage (sweet or hot), or smoked sausage like kielbasa. For a milder flavor, sweet Italian sausage is an excellent choice. If you prefer a bit of heat, hot Italian sausage will add a delightful kick. Smoked sausage, such as kielbasa, offers a different flavor profile, adding smokiness and depth to the dish. Remove the sausage from its casings if using Italian sausage and crumble it. If using smoked sausage, slice it into rounds or half-moons.
• Broccoli: 1 large head, cut into florets (about 4-5 cups). Fresh broccoli is highly recommended for its crisp texture and vibrant green color. Ensure the florets are roughly the same size for even cooking. You can also use pre-cut broccoli florets to save time.
• Garlic: 6-8 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic is crucial for the best flavor. Mince it finely to release its aromatic oils. Don’t be shy with the garlic – it’s a key component of the honey garlic sauce and adds significant depth of flavor.
• Honey: 1/4 cup. Use a good quality honey for the best flavor. Raw honey or wildflower honey are excellent choices. The honey provides sweetness and a beautiful glaze to the dish.
• Soy Sauce: 1/4 cup, low sodium. Low sodium soy sauce is recommended to control the saltiness of the dish. Soy sauce adds umami and depth of flavor to the sauce. You can substitute tamari for a gluten-free option.
• Rice Vinegar: 2 tablespoons. Rice vinegar adds a subtle tanginess that balances the sweetness of the honey and the savory notes of the soy sauce and garlic. Apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute in a pinch.
• Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon. Toasted sesame oil adds a nutty aroma and flavor that enhances the overall dish. A little goes a long way, so just one tablespoon is perfect.
• Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (optional, for a touch of heat). If you like a bit of spice, red pepper flakes add a pleasant warmth. Adjust the amount to your preference or omit them altogether if you prefer a milder dish.
• Olive Oil or Avocado Oil: 2 tablespoons. Use a high-heat cooking oil like olive oil or avocado oil for sautéing the sausage and broccoli. These oils are healthy and have a neutral flavor that won’t overpower the other ingredients.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors of all the ingredients. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed throughout the cooking process.
• Optional Garnishes: Sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or a squeeze of lemon juice (for serving). Garnishes add visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor. Sesame seeds provide a nutty crunch, green onions add freshness, and a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the dish.

Instructions

Cooking this Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli recipe is surprisingly simple and quick. The beauty of this dish lies in its one-pan nature, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor. Following these step-by-step instructions will ensure a perfectly cooked and delicious meal every time. Pay attention to the cooking times to avoid overcooking the shrimp or broccoli, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasonings to your liking.

Here’s how to bring this delightful dish together:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by prepping all your ingredients. Peel and devein the shrimp, ensuring they are patted dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. If using Italian sausage, remove it from the casings and crumble it. If using smoked sausage, slice it into rounds or half-moons. Wash the broccoli thoroughly and cut it into florets of roughly the same size. Mince the garlic cloves finely. Measure out all your sauce ingredients – honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil – and have them ready to go. This mise en place will make the cooking process smooth and efficient.
2. Cook the Sausage and Broccoli: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or avocado oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the crumbled Italian sausage (or sliced smoked sausage) to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside, leaving any rendered fat in the pan for added flavor. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if needed, and then add the broccoli florets. Sauté the broccoli for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns bright green and is tender-crisp. You want the broccoli to have a slight bite and not become mushy. If the broccoli starts to stick to the pan, add a tablespoon of water and cover the skillet for a minute or two to steam it slightly and prevent burning.
3. Add Garlic and Shrimp: Push the broccoli to one side of the skillet and add the minced garlic to the cleared space. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Burnt garlic can become bitter and ruin the flavor of the dish. Then, add the shrimp to the skillet, spreading them out in a single layer if possible. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque and are cooked through. Shrimp cooks very quickly, so be careful not to overcook them, or they will become rubbery.
4. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Ensure the honey is well combined with the other ingredients to create a smooth and emulsified sauce.
5. Combine Everything and Simmer: Pour the honey garlic sauce over the shrimp, sausage, and broccoli in the skillet. Stir everything together gently to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated in the sauce. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and glaze the shrimp, sausage, and broccoli. The sauce will reduce and become sticky and luscious.
6. Season and Serve: Taste the dish and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed to your preference. You may want to add a bit more soy sauce for saltiness, honey for sweetness, or rice vinegar for tanginess. Once the flavors are balanced to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired, for added visual appeal and flavor. Serve immediately over rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can also brighten the flavors and add a final touch of freshness.

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional content of your meals can be helpful for making informed dietary choices. This Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli recipe offers a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal option. Keep in mind that these are estimated values and can vary slightly based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Servings: 4

Approximate Nutrition Facts Per Serving:

• Calories: 450-550 kcal (This can vary based on the type of sausage used and portion sizes)
• Protein: 35-45 grams (Shrimp and sausage are excellent sources of lean protein)
• Fat: 20-30 grams (This includes healthy fats from olive oil, sesame oil, and sausage. The type of sausage will significantly impact the fat content; using leaner sausage will reduce the fat content)
  • Saturated Fat: 5-10 grams (Primarily from the sausage. Choosing leaner sausage will reduce saturated fat)
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10-20 grams (Healthy fats from olive oil, sesame oil, and shrimp)
• Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams (From honey, broccoli, and potential side dishes like rice)
  • Sugar: 15-20 grams (Primarily from honey and natural sugars in broccoli)
  • Fiber: 5-7 grams (Broccoli is a good source of dietary fiber)
• Sodium: 600-800 mg (Can be adjusted by using low-sodium soy sauce and being mindful of added salt)
• Cholesterol: 200-250 mg (Primarily from shrimp and sausage)
• Vitamins and Minerals:
  • Vitamin C: High (Broccoli is rich in Vitamin C)
  • Vitamin K: Good source (Broccoli)
  • Vitamin D: Moderate (Shrimp)
  • B Vitamins: Good source (Sausage and shrimp)
  • Selenium: Excellent source (Shrimp)
  • Potassium: Moderate (Broccoli)
  • Iron: Moderate (Sausage and shrimp)

Important Notes:

• These values are estimates and can vary. For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you are using.
• To reduce calories and fat, consider using leaner sausage options like chicken or turkey sausage, and trim any visible fat. Increasing the amount of broccoli and reducing the sausage portion can also help lower the calorie and fat content while increasing fiber and vitamins.
• For those watching their sodium intake, using low-sodium soy sauce is crucial. You can also reduce the amount of soy sauce slightly and adjust other seasonings to taste.
• This dish is a good source of protein and fiber, making it a satisfying and balanced meal. The broccoli adds essential vitamins and minerals, while the shrimp and sausage provide protein for muscle building and satiety.

Preparation Time

One of the biggest advantages of this Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli recipe is its speed and ease of preparation. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious and healthy meal on the table quickly. The active cooking time is minimal, and most of the time is spent in the actual cooking process, making it a very efficient recipe.

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes (This includes peeling and deveining shrimp, chopping broccoli, mincing garlic, measuring sauce ingredients, and any other ingredient preparation). Efficient knife skills and having all ingredients readily available can help minimize prep time. Using pre-cut broccoli florets can further reduce prep time.
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes (This is the time spent cooking the sausage, broccoli, shrimp, and simmering the sauce). The actual cooking time may vary slightly depending on the heat of your stove and the size of your skillet.
• Total Time: 30-40 minutes (From start to finish, including both prep and cook time). This makes it an ideal weeknight meal option.

Time-Saving Tips:

• Use pre-cut broccoli florets: This significantly reduces prep time.
• Buy pre-peeled and deveined shrimp: While slightly more expensive, it saves a considerable amount of time.
• Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the broccoli and mince the garlic earlier in the day or even the day before and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. You can also pre-mix the honey garlic sauce and store it separately.
• Read through the recipe before starting: Familiarizing yourself with the steps will help you move efficiently through the cooking process.
• Multi-task: While the sausage is cooking, you can prepare the broccoli and sauce ingredients simultaneously to save time.

How to Serve

This Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli is delicious on its own, but it truly shines when paired with complementary sides that enhance the overall dining experience. The versatility of this dish allows for various serving options to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some excellent ways to serve this flavorful meal:

• Over Rice:
  • White Rice: Classic and simple, white rice is a perfect neutral base to soak up the flavorful honey garlic sauce.
  • Brown Rice: For a healthier and nuttier option, brown rice adds more fiber and texture.
  • Jasmine Rice: Its fragrant aroma and slightly sticky texture make it a delightful pairing.
  • Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb and keto-friendly option, cauliflower rice is an excellent choice. It’s light and absorbs the sauce beautifully.
• With Noodles:
  • Egg Noodles: Wide egg noodles are fantastic for capturing the sauce and offer a comforting texture.
  • Lo Mein Noodles: Stir-fried lo mein noodles can be tossed with the shrimp, sausage, and broccoli for a complete noodle dish.
  • Soba Noodles: Buckwheat soba noodles provide a slightly nutty and earthy flavor that complements the dish.
  • Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): Another low-carb and gluten-free option, zucchini noodles are a refreshing and light alternative to traditional pasta.
• Alongside Vegetables:
  • Steamed or Roasted Asparagus: Adds a delicate green vegetable to the meal.
  • Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly bitter and caramelized flavor pairs well with the sweet and savory sauce.
  • Sautéed Green Beans: A simple and classic side that complements the broccoli.
  • Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the main dish.
• As a Lettuce Wrap:
  • Butter Lettuce or Romaine Lettuce: Spoon the Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli mixture into lettuce cups for a light and refreshing low-carb meal. This is a fun and interactive way to serve the dish.
• Garnishes to Enhance the Serving Experience:
  • Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the dish for added texture and nutty flavor.
  • Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions add a pop of color and a mild oniony bite.
  • Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a touch of acidity.
  • Fresh Cilantro or Parsley: Chopped fresh herbs add freshness and visual appeal.
  • Extra Honey Garlic Sauce: Serve a small bowl of extra honey garlic sauce on the side for those who like extra sauce with their meal.

Additional Tips

To ensure your Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli turns out perfectly every time, here are five valuable tips to keep in mind. These tips cover everything from ingredient selection to cooking techniques and flavor enhancements, helping you elevate this already delicious recipe to the next level.

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the sausage, broccoli, and especially the shrimp, avoid overcrowding the skillet. Overcrowding can lower the pan temperature, causing the ingredients to steam instead of sear, resulting in less browning and less flavorful results. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure each ingredient cooks properly and gets a nice sear. For the broccoli, cooking in a single layer allows for even cooking and prevents steaming, promoting tender-crisp florets. For the shrimp, cooking in batches ensures they cook quickly and evenly without becoming rubbery.
2. Pat the Shrimp Dry: Before adding the shrimp to the skillet, make sure to pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Excess moisture on the shrimp will hinder browning and can lead to steaming instead of searing, which is crucial for developing flavor and achieving a nice texture. Dry shrimp will sear beautifully and absorb the honey garlic sauce more effectively. This simple step makes a significant difference in the final texture and flavor of the shrimp.
3. Adjust the Sauce to Your Taste: The honey garlic sauce is the heart of this recipe, so feel free to adjust the ratios of honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar to suit your personal preferences. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a bit more honey. For a tangier sauce, increase the rice vinegar. If you like it saltier, add a touch more soy sauce. Taste the sauce before adding it to the skillet and adjust accordingly. You can also experiment with adding other flavor enhancers like ginger, sriracha, or a dash of fish sauce for added depth.
4. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks incredibly quickly, and overcooked shrimp becomes rubbery and tough. Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes only 2-3 minutes per side, depending on their size and the heat of your pan. As soon as they are cooked through, remove them from the heat to prevent overcooking. Residual heat will continue to cook them slightly even after you remove them from the pan.
5. Fresh Garlic is Key: Freshly minced garlic is essential for the best flavor in this recipe. Garlic powder or pre-minced garlic in jars simply cannot replicate the vibrant aroma and pungent flavor of freshly minced garlic. Mince the garlic just before you need it to maximize its flavor. Sautéing it briefly in the skillet before adding the shrimp and sauce releases its aromatic oils and infuses the dish with a delicious garlic flavor. Don’t be tempted to skimp on the garlic; it’s a defining element of the honey garlic sauce.

FAQ Section

Here are five frequently asked questions about the Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli recipe, along with detailed answers to help you troubleshoot and customize this dish to your liking. These FAQs cover common concerns and variations, ensuring you have all the information you need to confidently prepare and enjoy this recipe.

Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets if fresh broccoli is not available. However, fresh broccoli generally provides a better texture and flavor. If using frozen broccoli, there are a couple of ways to approach it. You can thaw the broccoli completely and pat it dry before sautéing to remove excess moisture, which will help it brown better. Alternatively, you can cook frozen broccoli directly from frozen, but you may need to increase the cooking time slightly. When cooking from frozen, sauté it for a few minutes and then add a tablespoon or two of water to the skillet, cover, and steam for a few minutes until tender-crisp. Uncover and continue to sauté until any excess moisture evaporates and the broccoli starts to brown. Keep in mind that frozen broccoli may be slightly softer in texture compared to fresh.

Q2: What are some good substitutions for Italian sausage?

A: There are several excellent substitutions for Italian sausage, depending on your dietary preferences and what you have on hand. For a leaner option, you can use chicken or turkey sausage. Look for pre-cooked chicken or turkey sausage links and slice them into rounds or half-moons. You can also use chorizo for a spicier flavor profile, or andouille sausage for a smoky kick. If you want to make the dish vegetarian or vegan, you can omit the sausage altogether and increase the amount of shrimp, or use plant-based sausage alternatives. Another option is to use ground beef or ground chicken instead of sausage, browning it in the skillet before adding the broccoli.

Q3: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free with a few simple substitutions. The main ingredient to watch out for is soy sauce, as traditional soy sauce contains wheat. To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. Both tamari and coconut aminos are gluten-free alternatives that offer a similar savory flavor. Double-check that your sausage is also gluten-free if you are strictly avoiding gluten, as some sausages may contain gluten as a filler. With these substitutions, the entire dish can be enjoyed as a delicious and gluten-free meal.

Q4: How can I store leftovers and for how long?

A: Leftover Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the leftovers are cooled down to room temperature before refrigerating to prevent condensation buildup. To reheat, you can microwave the leftovers until heated through, or reheat them in a skillet over medium heat with a tablespoon of water or oil to prevent drying out. Reheating in a skillet can help retain the texture of the shrimp and broccoli better than microwaving. It’s best to consume leftovers within 3-4 days for optimal quality and food safety.

Q5: Can I prepare the honey garlic sauce in advance?

A: Absolutely! Preparing the honey garlic sauce in advance is a great time-saving tip, especially if you are meal prepping or want to streamline the cooking process on a busy weeknight. You can whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using) and store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When you are ready to cook, simply pour the pre-made sauce into the skillet as directed in the recipe. This can significantly reduce the active cooking time and make weeknight dinners even easier to manage.

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