If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and insanely delicious seafood dish, honey garlic shrimp is where it’s at. This sweet, savory, garlicky shrimp recipe has become a favorite in kitchens everywhere for good reason. It’s packed with flavor, takes less than 30 minutes to make, and uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. Whether you’re prepping dinner for the family or making a protein-packed lunch, this dish delivers a restaurant-quality experience right at home.

Not only does this recipe balance the deep richness of garlic and soy sauce with the light sweetness of honey, but it also cooks quickly in one pan, leaving you with less cleanup and more time to enjoy. Discover great ideas like this Creamy Garlic Shrimp & Spinach Pasta to explore more twists on the classic.

Why Honey Garlic Shrimp Is So Popular

Shrimp recipes are popular across the globe, but honey garlic shrimp holds a special place for its irresistible balance of flavor and simplicity. Combining the sharp aroma of garlic with the sticky sweetness of honey and the salty depth of soy sauce creates a perfect trifecta that’s hard to beat.

Unlike heavier dishes, this one feels light but satisfying, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, healthy meal prepping, or impressing dinner guests with minimal effort. Plus, it cooks in under 10 minutes, which is a lifesaver when time is tight.

Looking for inspiration? Try this juicy and flavorful garlic chicken with spinach—another dinner favorite that brings the bold flavor of garlic to the forefront.

A Brief History of Honey Garlic Recipes in Asian-Inspired Cooking

While there’s no single origin for honey garlic shrimp, it borrows heavily from Asian-inspired cuisine, particularly from Chinese and Southeast Asian flavor profiles. The use of soy sauce, garlic, and fish sauce can be traced to traditional stir-fry methods, where balance between sweet and savory is key.

In many Asian dishes, garlic is a cornerstone of flavor, while honey or sugar is used to create balance and depth. This combo was adopted widely in Western kitchens during the fusion food trend and has remained a favorite for home cooks thanks to its ease and versatility.

Ingredients for the Best Honey Garlic Shrimp

Breakdown of Essential Ingredientsfor honey garlic shrimp

To make the ultimate honey garlic shrimp, the secret lies in using fresh, quality ingredients. Each component in this dish plays a key role in developing bold, balanced flavors. Here’s what you’ll need for a generous 4-pound batch of shrimp:

Ingredient	Amount	Purpose
Large raw shrimp (16-20 count)	4 pounds, peeled and deveined	Protein base, sweet and tender
Fresh garlic (minced)	4 tablespoons	Intense flavor depth
Mild-flavored honey	8 tablespoons	Natural sweetness, sticky glaze
Freshly grated ginger	2 teaspoons	Slight heat and brightness
Soy sauce	4 tablespoons (or more to taste)	Salty umami balance
Asian fish sauce	4 teaspoons (optional)	Depth and traditional Southeast Asian touch
Vegetable oil	8 teaspoons	Searing and locking in flavor
Green onions (thinly sliced)	4 cups (or to taste)	Fresh garnish, color, and crunch

Check out our creamy macaroni and cheese recipe for a comfort food side dish that pairs perfectly with this honey garlic shrimp.

Ingredient Substitutions and Customizations for Dietary Needs

Whether you’re cooking for allergies, preferences, or just trying to mix things up, here are some great swaps and ideas:

• No Fish Sauce? Use additional soy sauce with a splash of lime juice or a dash of Worcestershire.
• Low Sodium Diet? Opt for low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the added salt.
• Want it Spicier? Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a squirt of sriracha to the marinade.
• No Honey? Use maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sticky sweetness.
• Vegetarian Option? Try the same marinade on tofu or tempeh.

How to Choose the Right Shrimp

Understanding Shrimp Sizes and Labels (16-20 Count, Raw, Deveined)

Before you even fire up the skillet, choosing the right shrimp is essential for the perfect honey garlic shrimp. Let’s break down the labels you’ll typically find at the grocery store or seafood market:

• Count per pound: The numbers like 16-20 count mean you’ll get 16 to 20 shrimp per pound. For this recipe, large shrimp are ideal—they’re juicy, cook evenly, and hold onto the glaze well.
• Raw vs. Cooked: Always start with raw shrimp. Pre-cooked shrimp don’t absorb marinades and can easily become rubbery.
• Peeled and Deveined: This saves time and ensures a better texture. Leaving the tail on is optional and mostly for presentation.
• Shell-On vs. Shell-Off: For this dish, use shell-off to allow maximum flavor absorption from the honey garlic marinade.

If you’re feeling adventurous and want a heartier variation, check out our one-pan creamy garlic shrimp spinach pasta. It’s a great way to use different shrimp sizes in a rich, creamy sauce.

Frozen vs. Fresh Shrimp – What Works Best for This Honey Garlic Shrimp

The truth? Most “fresh” shrimp sold at supermarkets were previously frozen. That’s not a bad thing—frozen shrimp, when thawed properly, are just as tasty and can even be more reliable in quality.

Here’s what to consider:

Shrimp Type	Pros	Cons
Frozen Shrimp	Convenient, lasts longer, good quality year-round	Requires thawing time
Fresh Shrimp	Great texture and taste if truly fresh	Short shelf life, may be more expensive

Pro Tip: Thaw shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water for 20–30 minutes. Once thawed, pat dry with paper towels before marinating to help the sauce stick better.

Don’t miss our protein-packed creamy mushroom spinach orzo recipe for a cozy side that complements this dish beautifully.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Shrimp

Start by making sure your shrimp are fully thawed and well drained. Place them back in the fridge to stay cold while you prepare the marinade.

2. Make the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together the garlic, honey, ginger, soy sauce, and fish sauce until everything is well blended.

3. Marinate the Shrimp

• Add the shrimp to the bowl.
• Use a spatula to toss and coat the shrimp thoroughly for about 2 minutes.
• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes, tossing occasionally to evenly soak the flavors.

4. Heat the Skillet

• Brush a large nonstick skillet with vegetable oil.
• Heat it over high heat until you start seeing light wisps of smoke.

5. Sear the Shrimp

• Using tongs, quickly place the shrimp in a single layer in the hot pan.
• Set aside the leftover marinade—you’ll use it shortly.

6. Cook and Add Marinade

• Sear shrimp undisturbed for 2 minutes until they start to caramelize.
• Flip the shrimp, then pour in the reserved marinade.
• Let everything cook for 1 more minute.

7. Finish Cooking Off Heat

• Turn off the heat and flip the shrimp one last time.
• Allow them to rest in the pan for about 1 minute—the residual heat will reduce the sauce into a sticky, flavorful glaze.

8. Garnish and Serve Honey Garlic Shrimp

• Sprinkle with plenty of fresh green onions.
• Serve immediately with your choice of sides—rice, noodles, or roasted vegetables all work perfectly.

Don’t miss our Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta for a perfect pairing on pasta night.

Serving Ideas and Pairings

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Honey Garlic Shrimp (Rice, Noodles, Veggies)

One of the biggest perks of honey garlic shrimp is how versatile it is when it comes to pairing. Whether you’re planning a quick dinner or a special weekend meal, the right side dish can elevate the entire experience.

Here are some favorite options to round out your honey garlic shrimp dish:

Side Dish	Why It Works
Steamed Jasmine Rice	Soaks up the extra sauce perfectly
Garlic Butter Noodles	Adds extra richness and keeps the flavors flowing
Roasted Broccoli or Asparagus	Provides crunch and balance to the sweet glaze
Stir-Fried Vegetables	Complements the Asian-inspired flavor
Quinoa or Cauliflower Rice	Low-carb, high-protein options

A great base like rice or noodles helps carry the sweet-savory sauce, while veggies provide contrast and nutrition. For something ultra-cozy, don’t miss our cozy stew – a hearty family dinner that complements shrimp with warm, bold flavors.

Creative Serving Suggestions (Lettuce Wraps, Bowls, Tacos)

Want to step outside the typical rice-and-shrimp combo? Get creative with these serving styles that make your dish fun, handheld, or perfect for meal prep:

• Shrimp Bowls: Layer rice, shrimp, shredded carrots, edamame, and avocado for a colorful bowl.
• Lettuce Wraps: Spoon honey garlic shrimp into crisp romaine or butter lettuce for a light, low-carb bite.
• Asian Tacos: Load corn tortillas with shrimp, cabbage slaw, and spicy mayo for a fusion twist.
• Meal Prep Containers: Divide into portions with rice and veggies for an easy lunch solution.

Looking for something creamy on the side? Try our creamy pesto gnocchi with spinach—the garlicky richness pairs beautifully with shrimp.

Storing and Reheating Tips

How to Store Leftover Shrimp Safely

Honey garlic shrimp may taste best fresh off the skillet, but it also stores surprisingly well. Whether you’re meal prepping or saving leftovers, here’s how to keep your shrimp tasting great:

Storage Method	Details
Refrigerator	Store in airtight container for up to 3 days
Freezer	Freeze in portioned bags up to 2 months
Container Tip	Use glass containers to avoid lingering odors

Always let the shrimp cool fully before sealing, to prevent condensation which can cause sogginess. If freezing, remove as much air as possible from the container or bag to avoid freezer burn.

For more freezer-friendly recipes that are just as flavorful, check out our easy tiramisu recipe. It’s the perfect sweet finish to any savory meal.

Best Practices for Reheating Without Losing Texture

Reheating shrimp can be tricky. Overdo it, and you’ll end up with dry, rubbery bites. Follow these tips for a quick reheat that preserves flavor and tenderness:

Reheat on the Stove (Best Method):

1. Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat.
2. Add a splash of water or extra marinade.
3. Stir gently for 1–2 minutes until just warmed through.

Microwave Method (Quickest):

1. Place shrimp in a microwave-safe container.
2. Add a damp paper towel over the top.
3. Heat in 20-second bursts, stirring between intervals.

Avoid reheating multiple times, as the texture will degrade quickly.

Want more inspiration for easy, reheat-friendly meals? Don’t miss our fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes—a soft, citrusy option for brunch or breakfast meal prep.

Health Benefits and Nutrition Facts

Nutritional Breakdown

Not only is honey garlic shrimp bursting with flavor, but it also packs a solid nutritional punch. It’s high in protein, low in saturated fat, and offers a better-for-you option when you’re craving takeout-style food with fewer calories.

Here’s the nutrition breakdown per serving (based on a 4-pound batch serving 8 people):

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving	Notes
Calories	304	Moderate calorie count
Protein	39g	Lean source of protein
Carbohydrates	22g	From honey and marinade ingredients
Fat	7g	Mostly from vegetable oil, minimal saturated fat

Shrimp is naturally low in fat and high in essential nutrients like selenium, iodine, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids. Combined with ingredients like garlic and ginger—both known for their anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting properties—this dish brings more than just taste to the table.

If you’re looking for nutrient-packed sweet snacks to follow up this meal, check out our healthy DIY trail mix—a perfect protein-rich dessert or snack option.

And for a refreshing drink to pair with this shrimp dish, don’t miss our glow green juice—loaded with vitamins and detox-friendly ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Make Honey Garlic Shrimp Your Go-To Weeknight Dinner

With just a few simple ingredients and less than 30 minutes, honey garlic shrimp delivers bold flavor, juicy texture, and restaurant-quality results every single time. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick family meal or impressing guests with a dish that tastes gourmet but cooks fast, this recipe hits the sweet spot.

Its balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors makes it incredibly versatile—serve it with rice, toss it in tacos, or load it up in bowls. Plus, it’s meal-prep friendly, freezer-safe, and nutritious, packing in high protein and low fat.

From ingredient tips to cooking methods and storage hacks, you now have everything you need to master this dish. So, fire up that skillet and get cooking.

Don’t miss our roundup of delicious, wholesome meals on the main recipes page—your next favorite dish is just a click away.