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Honey garlic shrimp sausage and broccoli is one of those go-to skillet meals that feels just a little bit special even though it comes together in a flash. You get all the sweet sticky flavor of a takeout favorite packed with protein and crisp broccoli for a weeknight dinner that never gets old.
The first time I made this I was just trying to use up sausage in the fridge but my family loved it so much they now ask for it anytime shrimp goes on sale. Sometimes I throw in extra veggies and everyone still clears their plate.
Ingredients
- Large shrimp: cleaned and deveined for sweet delicate flavor and best texture fresh or high quality frozen work
- Smoked sausage: sliced so every bite gets a bit of smoky richness look for sausage with good spice and not too much filler
- Broccoli florets: for vibrant color and a crisp tender bite pick crowns that are dark green without yellowing
- Garlic: fresh minced for punchy aroma and that signature warmth
- Honey: for sweetness try to use real honey for the best flavor it thickens the sauce beautifully
- Soy sauce: brings salty depth choose low sodium to balance the sauce
- Olive oil: for browning and to swirl the flavors around use extra virgin for peak taste
- Lemon juice: brightens the dish with just enough acidity fresh squeezed makes a difference
- Red pepper flakes: optional but add a gentle kick if you like heat
- Salt and pepper: ground fresh to finish the proteins perfectly
- Rice or quinoa: as a fluffy base for soaking up the sauce long grain white rice or nutty quinoa are both delicious
- Fresh parsley or cilantro: for a pop of color and fresh finish choose dark green vibrant bunches
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Whisk honey soy sauce minced garlic lemon juice and red pepper flakes in a small bowl until the honey is fully dissolved. Set aside so the flavors meld while you prep everything else.
- Brown the Sausage:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add sliced sausage and cook for about five minutes stirring occasionally to ensure both sides get golden and crisp. Remove the sausage to a plate and keep nearby.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Add shrimp right into the same skillet. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and lay them out in a single layer. Cook two to three minutes per side until they are opaque and firm. Remove them to the same plate as the sausage so nothing overcooks.
- Sauté the Broccoli:
- Toss broccoli florets into the skillet where they soaks up all those savory bits from before. Sauté for four to five minutes stirring often until the florets are bright green and just tender yet still a bit crisp. A splash of water helps them steam if needed.
- Combine and Glaze:
- Return both sausage and shrimp to the skillet. Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce all over. Stir everything well to fully coat every bite. Let the pan cook for another two to three minutes so the sauce thickens and glazes the proteins and broccoli richly.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Spoon the sauced shrimp sausage and broccoli generously over cooked rice or quinoa. Shower with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro right before serving for a fresh finish.
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I secretly love the way broccoli grabs the sticky sweet sauce making each bite just irresistible. Watching my kid search for extra bits of sausage in their bowl always makes me smile.
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It is best to store the rice or quinoa separately so the sauce does not over soften the grains. You can reheat in a covered pan with a splash of water to keep everything moist and saucy.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have smoked sausage turkey or chicken sausage works well too. Snap peas or thin asparagus spears are tasty in place of broccoli for a springtime twist. Tamari or coconut aminos can sub for soy sauce if you need a gluten free option.
Serving Suggestions
This skillet is hearty over steamed rice or fluffy quinoa but it is also great spooned over noodles for a change. Add a squeeze of lemon right before serving to really make the flavors pop. Leftovers make a speedy lunch tucked into a wrap the next day.
Ties to Family Table
A meal like this reminds me of gathering cousins and siblings around the table with steaming bowls and stories about who scored the last shrimp. The gentle heat from red pepper flakes is something my partner always requests.
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Serve this up when you want big flavor fast and do not worry about extras—leftovers reheat beautifully for lunch. One pan minimal mess and dinner that gets everyone excited to sit down together.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw frozen shrimp before cooking. Pat them dry for best texture and flavor.
- → What sausage works best?
Smoked sausage is recommended, but kielbasa or chicken sausage are good substitutes.
- → Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely. Bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms work well alongside or instead of broccoli.
- → How can I make it spicier?
Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the honey garlic sauce.
- → Is it possible to make this dish ahead?
Prepare all ingredients and sauce ahead. Cook fresh for best taste and texture.
- → What sides pair well with this meal?
Enjoy it over rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option.