Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage Broccoli

This honey garlic shrimp and sausage stir-fry has become my weeknight dinner hero when I need something delicious on the table in under 30 minutes. The combination of succulent shrimp, savory sausage, and tender broccoli coated in a sticky-sweet honey garlic sauce creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

I first created this dish when trying to use up ingredients in my fridge before vacation. What started as a kitchen cleanout has become my family's most requested meal, especially on busy weeknights when we need something satisfying but quick.

Ingredients

• Shrimp: large ones work best as they stay juicy and don't overcook as quickly as smaller varieties
• Smoked sausage: adds rich smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the honey sauce
• Broccoli florets: provide perfect texture contrast and absorb the delicious sauce
• Garlic: fresh minced cloves create the aromatic base for the sauce
• Honey: creates the sticky glaze and balances the savory elements
• Soy sauce: low sodium variety allows you to control the saltiness
• Lemon juice: brightens all the flavors and cuts through the richness
• Red pepper flakes: optional but recommended for a subtle heat that enhances the other flavors
• Olive oil: use a quality oil since it's the base for sautéing all components

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Sauce:

Whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl until fully combined. This can be done ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce should be smooth with no honey sticking to the bottom.

Brown the Sausage:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add sliced sausage in a single layer and cook undisturbed for 2 minutes to develop a nice crust. Turn pieces and continue cooking for 2-3 more minutes until evenly browned on multiple sides. The caramelization adds tremendous flavor to the final dish.

Cook the Shrimp:

In the same skillet with remaining oil and sausage drippings, add seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2 minutes until the bottom side turns pink with slight golden edges. Flip each piece and cook for another minute until just opaque. The residual heat will continue cooking them, so it's better to slightly undercook at this stage.

Sauté the Broccoli:

Add broccoli florets to the empty skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Look for the florets to turn bright green and develop slight charring on the edges. If the pan seems dry, add a tablespoon of water and cover for 1 minute to create steam that helps tenderize the broccoli while maintaining its crispness.

Combine and Glaze:

Return sausage and shrimp to the skillet with broccoli. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over all ingredients. Gently toss everything to ensure each piece is coated. Allow the mixture to bubble gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken and become glossy as it reduces, creating a beautiful glaze that clings to all components.

Serve Over Grains:

Spoon the hot mixture over freshly cooked rice or quinoa, making sure to drizzle extra sauce from the pan. The grain will absorb the flavorful sauce, making every bite delicious. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for brightness and visual appeal before serving immediately.

Save This

The honey in this recipe is truly the secret ingredient. I once tried substituting maple syrup when I ran out of honey, and while still good, it lacked that distinctive stickiness and depth that only honey provides. My husband could immediately tell the difference and requested I stick with the original recipe from then on!

Storage and Reheating

This dish stores beautifully in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually continue to develop overnight, making leftovers sometimes even more delicious than the original meal. To reheat, add a splash of water to prevent drying and warm gently in a skillet over medium heat until just heated through. Avoid microwave reheating if possible as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a different protein, chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces work wonderfully as a substitute for shrimp. Simply increase the cooking time to ensure they're cooked through. For a vegetarian version, try using extra-firm tofu or tempeh in place of the proteins. For the sausage, any smoked variety works well, including turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. If you're watching sugar intake, reduce the honey to 2 tablespoons and add a teaspoon of cornstarch to help thicken the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

While rice is the traditional pairing, this versatile dish works beautifully over cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. For a complete meal, consider adding a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the main dish. If you're entertaining, serve family-style on a large platter garnished with thinly sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an impressive presentation that requires minimal effort.

Common Queries

→ How do I prevent overcooking the shrimp?

Sear shrimp until pink and just opaque, around 2–3 minutes per side; remove promptly to avoid rubbery texture.

→ Can I use chicken sausage instead of smoked sausage?

Yes, chicken sausage works well and adds a lighter flavor while still complementing the honey garlic sauce.

→ What side dishes pair well with this meal?

Serve over rice, quinoa, or couscous for a complete meal. Steamed noodles or cauliflower rice also suit the flavors.

→ Is it possible to make this dish ahead?

You can prepare the sauce and slice ingredients ahead; cook everything fresh for best texture and bright flavors.

→ How can I add more vegetables?

Try bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms for more color and crunch. Add when sautéing broccoli for even cooking.

→ Can I substitute the honey?

Maple syrup or agave may be used instead of honey, though this will slightly change the flavor profile.