
This honey garlic shrimp sausage and broccoli skillet is my answer to a fast protein-packed dinner with big flavors that the whole family loves. Sweet and garlicky sauce meets the juicy bite of shrimp and smoky sausage tossed with bright green broccoli for a meal so simple you will want it on your weekly rotation.
This was a game changer for me on nights when I needed something quick but did not want to sacrifice flavor. The first time I made it my husband actually asked for seconds before I had finished serving myself.
Ingredients
- Large shrimp: peeled and deveined for tenderness and quick cooking always look for shrimp with firm texture and a mild sea smell
- Smoked sausage: sliced into thick rounds this brings a deep smoky flavor go for quality sausage from your deli or well-reputed brands
- Broccoli florets: for color crunch and vitamins pick heads that are firm with tight green buds
- Minced garlic: the essential backbone of the sauce use fresh cloves for that real flavor punch
- Honey: acts as a natural sweetener that balances the salt and garlic choose local honey for the best taste
- Low sodium soy sauce: lets you control the saltiness and keeps it from overwhelming the other flavors
- Olive oil: for sautéing and to add richness extra virgin is my go-to for freshness
- Lemon juice: a splash lifts the sauce with brightness fresh-squeezed is worth it here
- Red pepper flakes: give a gentle kick use more or less to suit your spice preference
- Salt and pepper: to amplify flavors grind fresh for best results
- Cooked rice or quinoa: as the foundation to soak up all that savory sauce choose a fluffy long grain or your favorite quinoa
- Fresh parsley or cilantro: brings a pop of green and herbaceous finish opt for leaves that are vibrant and bushy
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl whisk together honey low-sodium soy sauce minced garlic fresh lemon juice and red pepper flakes until smooth and glossy. This is your essential flavor base and has to be united before it hits the pan.
- Brown the Sausage:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high until shimmering. Add sliced smoked sausage in an even layer and let it get deeply caramelized for four to five minutes stirring every so often till both cut edges are browned. Remove to a plate keeping any flavorful bits in the pan.
- Sear the Shrimp:
- In the same pan place shrimp in a single layer. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and cook two to three minutes per side just until they turn pink and lose their translucency. Watch closely shrimp overcooks easily. Transfer shrimp with sausage.
- Sauté the Broccoli:
- Toss broccoli florets right into the hot pan scraping up any browned bits for extra taste. Sauté four to five minutes until the broccoli turns bright green and just tender. If it looks dry add a tablespoon of water and cover briefly to help steam for perfect texture.
- Combine and Simmer:
- Return sausage and shrimp to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour the honey garlic sauce over everything. Fold together well so every bite is coated. Let the flavors meld for two to three minutes as the sauce thickens and clings to the ingredients.
- Serve Up:
- Spoon the mixture over steaming hot rice or quinoa. Finish with a handful of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro. Dig in while the flavors are bold and bright.

I never get tired of the sticky honey garlic sauce with its bright zing from lemon. My kids always pick out the broccoli first which makes me laugh and reminds me of how this dish gets everyone reaching for seconds.
Storage Tips
This dish keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. I like to reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Shrimp reheats best when you do not overcook it the second time.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find good smoked sausage use kielbasa or even andouille for extra spice. Chicken sausage also works. You can swap in cauliflower florets snap peas or bell peppers for the broccoli when you need variety or are cleaning out the crisper. Tamari is great if you need this dish gluten free.
Serving Suggestions
Pile this onto jasmine or brown rice to soak up every drop of the sauce. Sometimes I opt for quinoa for a nuttier backbone or even stir-fried vegetables when we need more greens. For a lighter spin serve it over a bed of fresh salad greens and let the warm sauce create an easy dressing.
Cultural Inspiration
This stir fry brings together Asian inspired honey garlic sauce with hearty smoked sausage a southern staple in my house. It is a fun mix of sweet spicy and umami that speaks to my love of fusion comfort food. Every bite reminds me of casual busy dinners around our table.

This easy recipe will help you have dinner on the table in no time. Try it once and see why it becomes a family favorite.
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.