Why Busy Families Love This Recipe
If you’re craving a meal that’s both satisfying and quick to make, look no further than this Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Skillet. It’s a one-pan dinner that combines the rich, smoky flavor of sausage with tender, juicy shrimp—all drenched in a sticky, garlicky honey sauce that’s absolutely addictive. Packed with protein and balanced with fresh broccoli, this dish is a go-to for families, singles, and anyone in need of a fast, healthy dinner.
You don’t need hours in the kitchen or a pantry full of fancy ingredients. You just need one skillet, 25 minutes, and this recipe that delivers flavor, texture, and nutrition in every single bite.
Why This Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Skillet Works
This recipe is more than just quick and easy—it’s brilliantly balanced. The smoky richness of sausage perfectly complements the sweet and tangy honey garlic glaze, while shrimp adds a touch of elegance and a pop of ocean freshness. Combined with broccoli, this dish hits all the flavor notes and textures: sweet, salty, savory, soft, and crisp.
Here’s why it works:
- One skillet = less cleanup, more flavor.
- Fast cook time = ideal for weeknights.
- Sweet and savory sauce = kid-friendly and crave-worthy.
- Loaded with protein and fiber = energy that lasts.
Ingredients Breakdown and Benefits
Let’s explore what makes this dish both delicious and nutritious.
✅ Shrimp (1 lb)
- Lean protein that cooks in minutes.
- Low in calories but high in taste and nutrition.
- Great source of selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine.
✅ Smoked Sausage (½ lb)
- Adds rich, meaty depth and smoky flavor.
- Use turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- Can be substituted with chicken sausage or even tofu.
✅ Broccoli (2 cups)
- Full of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
- Adds crunch and a vibrant green color.
- A great low-carb vegetable that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
✅ Honey (3 tbsp)
- Natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully in the pan.
- Pairs perfectly with garlic and soy sauce for a sticky glaze.
✅ Garlic (3 cloves)
- Bold flavor with proven health benefits.
- Brings aromatic intensity that makes this dish shine.
✅ Soy Sauce (2 tbsp)
- Umami-rich saltiness to balance the sweetness of honey.
- Low-sodium soy sauce can be used to reduce salt intake.
✅ Lemon Juice (1 tbsp)
- Brightens up the dish with a hint of acidity.
- Balances out the sweetness and salt.
✅ Olive Oil (1 tbsp)
- Heart-healthy fat to sauté everything to perfection.
✅ Optional Additions
- Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Bell peppers or snow peas for extra color and crunch.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Here’s how to whip up this flavorful skillet dinner in just 25 minutes:
🕒 Total Time: 25 Minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
1. Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together:
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Set this aside. This is your flavor bomb!
2. Sauté the Sausage
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Add ½ lb sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned (about 3-4 minutes).
- Remove sausage and set aside.
3. Cook the Broccoli
- In the same skillet, add 2 cups broccoli florets.
- Add a splash of water, cover with a lid, and steam for 3-4 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender.
- Remove lid and sauté for 1 more minute to evaporate moisture.
4. Add Shrimp
- Toss in 1 lb peeled and deveined shrimp.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
5. Combine Everything
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet.
- Pour in the honey garlic sauce.
- Stir everything together and cook for 2-3 more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats every bite.
6. Serve Hot
- Garnish with red pepper flakes, sesame seeds, or chopped green onions (optional).
- Serve as-is or over rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice.
What Makes the Honey Garlic Sauce So Special
Unlike many store-bought sauces that are loaded with preservatives and sugar, this sauce is homemade, fresh, and customizable.
🍯 The Perfect Balance
- Sweetness from honey
- Umami from soy sauce
- Zing from lemon
- Boldness from garlic
This combination elevates the dish from simple to spectacular.
Nutrition Profile: Balanced and Delicious
Per Serving (approximate):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbs | 18g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 9g |
| Sodium | Moderate (based on soy sauce and sausage) |
This dish is a great option for low-carb lifestyles (especially if served without rice), gluten-free diets (using gluten-free soy sauce), and high-protein plans.
Variations to Try
Don’t want to stick to the original? Customize it to fit your preferences or dietary needs.
🍗 Protein Swaps
- Chicken breast
- Tofu (for vegetarian)
- Tempeh
- Salmon chunks
🥦 Veggie Additions
- Red or yellow bell peppers
- Snap peas
- Carrots
- Mushrooms
- Zucchini
🍚 Serving Options
- White or brown rice
- Jasmine rice
- Noodles
- Mashed potatoes
- Cauliflower rice (for keto)
Tips for Cooking Shrimp and Sausage Perfectly
- Don’t overcook shrimp – once they turn pink and curl, they’re done.
- Slice sausage evenly – for even browning and better texture.
- Use a large skillet – overcrowding causes steaming, not searing.
- Add sauce last – to avoid burning the honey.
Side Dishes to Serve with This Skillet
While this is a full meal in itself, you can round it out with:
- Garlic butter rice
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Simple side salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Crusty artisan bread to soak up the sauce
Frequently Asked Questions
❓Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
❓Can I freeze this dish?
Freeze before adding the sauce. Shrimp and broccoli can become mushy when reheated from frozen with sauce.
❓Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The sweet honey garlic flavor is a hit with kids. Just skip the red pepper flakes.
❓Is it gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos.
Storage, Freezing, and Meal Prep Tips
- Meal Prep: Make a double batch and portion into containers with rice for easy lunches.
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked sausage and broccoli (without shrimp or sauce). Add shrimp fresh when reheating for best texture.
Final Thoughts
This Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Skillet is a true weeknight hero. It brings bold flavor, great nutrition, and simple cooking techniques together in one beautiful pan. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to make it onto your regular rotation.
You’ll love how the sticky, garlicky sauce clings to every bite—and how easy it is to clean up afterward.
It’s fast. It’s delicious. It’s everything a home-cooked meal should be.
📌 Printable Recipe Card
Honey Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Skillet
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, and lemon juice in a bowl.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet. Cook sausage until browned, then remove.
- Add broccoli and splash of water. Steam covered 3–4 min.
- Add shrimp, cook until pink.
- Return sausage. Pour sauce over all. Stir and cook 2–3 min more.
- Serve hot, topped with flakes or scallions if desired.
