Let’s talk about the perfect weeknight dinner. It’s quick enough to make on a busy Tuesday. It uses ingredients you probably already have. And it tastes so good you’ll want to lick the plate clean. Honey garlic shrimp checks every box.
Juicy, succulent shrimp are cooked to perfection and coated in a luscious, sticky, sweet-and-savory honey garlic sauce that’s absolutely irresistible.
It comes together in about 10 minutes from start to finish, which means dinner is on the table faster than takeout. Serve it over a bowl of steaming rice, with a side of veggies, and prepare for compliments. This one’s a keeper.
Prep the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels. This helps them sear instead of steam. Season lightly with salt and pepper .
Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, red pepper flakes (if using), and 2 tablespoons of water .
Sear the Shrimp
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil. When the oil is shimmering, add the shrimp in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and curled into a loose C shape. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside .
Sauté the Garlic
Reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning .
Add the Sauce
Pour the honey garlic sauce into the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes .
Thicken the Sauce
Give the cornstarch slurry a quick stir, then slowly pour it into the simmering sauce while stirring constantly. Cook for another minute until the sauce thickens to a glossy, sticky consistency .
Return Shrimp to Pan
Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly in the sauce and heat through for about 1 minute .
Garnish
Remove from heat and sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds .
Serve
Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles, with vegetables on the side .
Enjoy
Dig in and savor every sweet, sticky, garlicky bite .
Pro-Tips for Honey Garlic Shrimp Greatness
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: They cook in minutes. Watch for that loose C shape—that’s your cue they’re done .
- Pat Shrimp Dry: Dry shrimp sear better and develop more flavor. Don’t skip this step .
- Watch the Garlic: Garlic burns quickly. Cook it just until fragrant, then add the sauce .
- Adjust the Heat: Add more or less red pepper flakes depending on your spice preference .
- Double the Sauce: This sauce is so good you might want extra for drizzling over rice. Make a double batch if you’re a sauce lover .
