Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I turn to this recipe when I need something fast, flavorful, and satisfying. The sauce is rich and sticky, coating the shrimp beautifully with its sweet and garlicky profile. It’s a dish that feels fancy but requires minimal effort and ingredients.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- I start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- I add the garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until it’s fragrant but not browned.
- I stir in the honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice, letting it simmer for about 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- I add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. I cook them for 3–4 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
- Once done, I remove the skillet from the heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings. Prep time is 5 minutes and cook time is 10 minutes, for a total of just 15 minutes. Each serving contains approximately 290 kcal.
Variations
I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or toss in a handful of snow peas or bell peppers for a bit of crunch. If I’m feeling indulgent, I serve it over buttered rice or garlic noodles.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat or microwave briefly—just until heated through, being careful not to overcook.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, I often use frozen shrimp. I make sure to thaw them fully and pat them dry before cooking.
What should I serve with honey garlic butter shrimp?
I usually serve it with steamed rice, noodles, or even a fresh green salad for balance.
Can I substitute the honey?
If I’m out of honey, I use maple syrup or brown sugar. Both work well and maintain the sweetness of the sauce.
How do I avoid overcooking shrimp?
I keep an eye on their color—shrimp are done as soon as they turn pink and curl into a C-shape. Cooking them beyond that can make them rubbery.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
I prefer making it fresh, but I’ve successfully prepped the sauce ahead and stored it in the fridge. I just cook the shrimp right before serving.
Conclusion
This Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp is a quick and delicious solution for busy nights or last-minute entertaining. It’s flavorful, easy to make, and always a hit at my table.
Print
Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This honey garlic shrimp is sautéed in a buttery soy-garlic glaze with a hint of lemon. A quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Let it simmer for 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add shrimp to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and cook 3–4 minutes per side, until shrimp are pink and opaque.
Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
Add red pepper flakes for heat.
Serve with rice, noodles, or sautéed vegetables.
Frozen shrimp work well if thawed and patted dry.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner / Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop / Sautéing
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired / American
