Honey Garlic Shrimp, Sausage, and Broccoli

Honey Garlic Shrimp, Sausage, and Broccoli is a flavorful, quick, and nutritious dish that combines succulent shrimp, savory sausage, and crisp broccoli, all enveloped in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. The balance of rich, smoky sausage, delicate shrimp, and fresh broccoli creates a harmonious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. With a flavorful sauce and easy cooking process, this dish is as satisfying as it is convenient, and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of sides.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick & Easy: Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this a perfect choice for busy nights.
• Balanced Meal: Protein-packed shrimp and sausage, plus nutrient-rich broccoli, create a wholesome dish.
• Flavorful: The honey garlic sauce brings a perfect balance of sweetness and savory umami to the shrimp and sausage.
• Versatile: Adaptable for different diets and great for meal prep, as it reheats beautifully.

Ingredient Breakdown:

• Shrimp: Choose fresh or frozen shrimp. Be sure to thaw frozen shrimp and devein them for ease of cooking. Wild-caught shrimp are often preferred for their clean flavor and firmer texture.
• Sausage: Andouille, Italian, or smoked sausage all work well. Choose based on your preferred flavor—spicy andouille for heat, savory Italian for balance, or smoky sausage for depth.
• Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds crunch and vibrant color, though frozen works if fresh isn’t available. Just be mindful of the cooking time to avoid it becoming too soft.
• Honey Garlic Sauce: The sauce is made with honey, soy sauce, garlic, and oil, creating a sweet-savory combo. Customize with rice vinegar or lemon juice for extra tang.

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Prep the Shrimp & Sausage: Devein and thaw the shrimp if using frozen. Slice the sausage into rounds or half-moons.
2. Blanch the Broccoli: Steam or blanch broccoli until tender yet crisp, ensuring it doesn’t overcook when added later.
3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce: Whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and oil. Add rice vinegar or lemon juice if desired for extra tang.
4. Cook the Sausage & Shrimp: In a skillet, sauté the sausage until browned. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, then toss in the broccoli and pour the honey garlic sauce over everything.
5. Combine & Serve: Stir the ingredients together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve immediately.

Flavor Pairings & Customizations:

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or spicy sausage for an extra kick.
• Herb-Infused: Fresh cilantro, parsley, or basil can add a burst of freshness as a garnish.
• Zesty Twist: Squeeze fresh lemon or lime juice over the finished dish for a citrusy boost.

Dietary Adaptations:

• Low-Carb/Keto: Swap honey for a keto-friendly sweetener like monk fruit syrup and serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure soy sauce is gluten-free (try tamari or coconut aminos).
• Paleo/Whole30: Use compliant sausage and replace the honey with date syrup or apple juice. Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Nutritional Benefits:

This dish provides a lean protein source from shrimp and sausage, combined with the fiber and vitamins of broccoli. The honey garlic sauce enhances flavor with natural sweetness, while garlic adds anti-inflammatory benefits. It’s a balanced, nutrient-rich meal that supports heart health and provides essential vitamins.

Meal Prep & Storage Tips:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or sauce to maintain moisture.
• Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove for the best results.

Common Questions:

1. Can I use chicken instead of sausage? Yes! Substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. Adjust seasoning to make up for the sausage’s flavor.
2. Should I use fresh or frozen broccoli? Both work well. Fresh retains better texture, but frozen is convenient and nutritious.
3. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, it’s great for meal prep! Cook as directed and store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat before serving.
4. How can I make this spicier? Add red pepper flakes, Sriracha, or a spicy sausage like andouille for extra heat.
5. What should I serve with this dish? Pair with rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or cauliflower rice for a well-rounded meal. A light salad or roasted veggies are perfect sides.

This Honey Garlic Shrimp, Sausage, and Broccoli is a delicious, balanced meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a keeper.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice or quinoa, for serving
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1️⃣ Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.

2️⃣ Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on both sides. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

3️⃣ Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside with the sausage.

4️⃣ Cook the Broccoli
Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and sauté for 4-5 minutes until they’re tender-crisp. If needed, splash a little water into the skillet to help steam the broccoli.

5️⃣ Combine & Simmer
Return the sausage and shrimp to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour the honey garlic sauce over everything and stir to coat evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the ingredients.

6️⃣ Serve
Serve the honey garlic shrimp, sausage, and broccoli over cooked rice or quinoa. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired. Enjoy this flavorful, hearty meal!

This dish is a great weeknight dinner, offering a wonderful balance of flavors and textures while being quick and easy to make. Perfect for meal prep, it can be enjoyed for several days to come!