Quick Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe

There’s something irresistibly satisfying about a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet comes together in a flash. This Quick Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe hits that sweet spot perfectly: sweet, garlicky, with a little zing, and on your table in just 10 minutes. Trust me, it’s one you’ll want to keep in your weekday dinner rotation.

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Jump to:

• Why You'll Love This Recipe
• Ingredients & Why They Work
• Make It Your Way
• Step-by-Step: How I Make Quick Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe
• Top Tip
• How to Serve Quick Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe
• Make Ahead and Storage
• Frequently Asked Questions:
• Final Thoughts
• Quick Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Ingredients & Why They Work

This recipe uses simple ingredients, but each one plays an important role in creating that signature honey garlic shrimp taste. I love how the soy sauce and cornstarch combo—not just for flavor—also acts as a velveting agent, giving the shrimp a silky texture. Plus, fresh garlic and ginger add a warmth that the honey beautifully balances out.

• Shrimp: Peeled and deveined is key here; it ensures a quick, even cook and easier eating without shells.
• Light Soy Sauce: Adds savory depth and saltiness without overpowering the sweetness of the honey.
• Cornstarch: Essential for that velveting effect—it gives shrimp a tender, slightly silky finish.
• Vegetable Oil: Neutral oil prevents smoke and lets the garlic and ginger release their fragrance perfectly.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic creates that punchy, aromatic base that defines this dish.
• Ginger Paste (or Grated Ginger): Adds a subtle spicy warmth that cuts through the honey’s sweetness.
• Honey: The star that gives the dish its sweet, sticky glaze—the kind you’ll want extra of!
• Chili Flakes (optional): Just a pinch adds a lovely kick; omit if you prefer things mild.
• Green Onions: Fresh garnish that brings a crisp, fresh bite and pretty pop of color.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this Quick Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe is how easily it adapts to your taste buds or what’s in your pantry. I love playing with the spice level or adding veggies to make it a one-pan meal. Don’t be afraid to tweak it to make it your own!

• Variation: I once swapped out the vegetable oil for toasted sesame oil to give it a smoky, nutty twist that was a hit at dinner.
• Vegetable Boost: Throw in snap peas or bell peppers at the last minute for extra crunch and color.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep this recipe gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
• Heat Level: Double the chili flakes for a spicier kick or leave it out for a family-friendly meal.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Quick Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Velvet the Shrimp

Start by combining the soy sauce and cornstarch in a medium bowl. Toss in your peeled and deveined shrimp until each piece is coated neatly. This simple step might seem small, but it really makes a difference by locking in moisture and keeping that tender shrimp texture you want. I usually let them sit for just a few minutes while I prep everything else—no need to marinate for hours.

Step 2: Sizzle the Aromatics

Heat your vegetable oil over medium heat in a non-stick pan. Add the minced garlic and ginger paste, then stir for no more than 30 seconds. Keep an eye on this step; garlic burns fast and turns bitter. You want that fragrant pop, not a burnt flavor, so as soon as you smell that lovely aroma, get ready for the next step.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Next, add the velveted shrimp to the pan. Cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side depending on the size. They’ll turn a bright pink and curl up—don’t overcook! Shrimp cook very quickly, and overdoing it makes them rubbery, so stay close.

Step 4: Coat with Honey and Finish

Now pour in the honey and sprinkle chili flakes if you’re using them. Toss everything together gently so the shrimp are evenly coated in that shiny, sticky sauce. Remove from heat to prevent the honey from burning and getting bitter. Finally, sprinkle sliced green onions on top—this pops in color and flavor.

How to Serve Quick Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Garnishes

I’m loyal to simple green onions because their mild oniony crunch complements the sweet sauce perfectly, but sometimes I add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or fresh cilantro for an extra flavor boost. It’s those little touches that make it feel special.

Side Dishes

I usually serve this over jasmine or basmati rice to soak up every bit of that sauce. Sometimes I’ll make a quick stir-fried veggie medley on the side—think snap peas, carrots, and bell peppers—for a fresh, colorful plate. It also works beautifully tossed with cooked noodles for a speedy dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, I like serving the shrimp on little skewers as appetizers with a sprinkle of chili flakes and fresh lime wedges on the side. It’s an easy, elegant way to showcase the dish and get people chatting—and reaching for seconds!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I transfer leftover honey garlic shrimp to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Shrimp are best fresh, but this recipe reheats well if you’re careful.

Freezing

I don’t usually freeze this dish since shrimp texture can get a bit rubbery after thawing, but if you do, freeze the shrimp and sauce separately and thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a non-stick pan over low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid the microwave if possible, since it can make shrimp tough. You want to warm it just enough while preserving that juicy texture.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely love how this Quick Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe feels like a little kitchen victory every time I make it—effortless, fast, and deeply flavorful. I’m confident you’ll enjoy how easy it is to whip up a dish that tastes so luxurious. Give it a try, tweak it to your liking, and I bet it’ll become one of your favorite go-to meals too!

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