10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Sometimes, you just need a meal that feels indulgent but takes almost no time to pull together. That’s where this honey garlic shrimp comes in. With just ten minutes of cooking time, you get tender, juicy shrimp coated in a sticky-sweet, garlicky glaze with a hint of heat. It’s one of those dishes that hits every flavor note—sweet, savory, spicy (if you want it), and completely irresistible. Plus, it’s as easy as it gets, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Let me tell you—this shrimp recipe has been a lifesaver on days when I’m craving something fancy but only have a few minutes to spare. The combination of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger transforms humble shrimp into something downright restaurant-worthy.

this RECIPE

A quick kitchen memory that makes me smile

The first time I made this dish was during a whirlwind weeknight dinner marathon. I had friends coming over, and my pantry was looking bleak—except for a lone bottle of honey, some soy sauce, and a bag of frozen shrimp. I decided to improvise, and what started as a desperate attempt to throw something together quickly became the star of the evening.

I’ll never forget the aroma that filled the kitchen when the garlic and ginger hit the hot oil. My friends kept peeking over my shoulder, asking what smelled so good. By the time I plated the shrimp, the sauce had turned into this glossy, golden glaze, and it looked as though I’d spent hours preparing it. Spoiler: I didn’t confess how little effort it actually took!

The background of honey garlic shrimp

Honey garlic shrimp has roots in Asian-inspired cuisine, where the balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors is a hallmark. The technique of velveting the shrimp with cornstarch and soy sauce is common in Chinese cooking. It helps the shrimp retain moisture and tenderness while cooking—a game-changer if you’ve ever overcooked shrimp before.

While the exact origins of this specific dish are a little murky, variations of honey garlic sauces are popular worldwide, especially in quick stir-fry recipes. Over time, home cooks have embraced this recipe for its simplicity, versatility, and how it effortlessly bridges the gap between everyday and elegant.

Let’s talk ingredients: what makes this dish shine

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in building its layers of flavor and texture:

• Shrimp: The star of the dish! Look for peeled and deveined shrimp to save prep time. I like medium to large shrimp for this recipe, as they’re easier to cook evenly. If fresh isn’t available, frozen shrimp (thawed properly) works beautifully.
• Soy sauce: Adds depth and that irresistible umami flavor. A tamari-based soy sauce works as a gluten-free substitute, or you could use a coconut aminos alternative.
• Cornstarch: Helps velvet the shrimp and thicken the glaze slightly. If you’re out, potato starch works just as well.
• Garlic and ginger: The dynamic duo that brings warmth and zest. Fresh ginger is best, but ground ginger will work in a pinch.
• Honey: The sweet counterpart to the soy sauce, creating that sticky glaze. Maple syrup can be a substitute if you want a slightly different flavor.
• Chilli flakes (optional): For a little kick of heat! Leave them out if you’re serving kids or prefer it mild.
• Green onions: A fresh garnish that adds crunch and color. If you don’t have any, cilantro or sesame seeds make great alternatives.

Kitchen gear: what you need to make this

The beauty of this recipe is that you don’t need fancy equipment:

• Non-stick frying pan: Essential for cooking the shrimp evenly without sticking. If you don’t have one, a cast-iron skillet works well, but you’ll need a little extra oil.
• Tongs: Perfect for flipping shrimp quickly and easily.
• Microplane grater: Great for grating fresh ginger (a lifesaver for me, as I always struggle with chopping it finely!).
• Mixing bowl: To toss the shrimp with soy sauce and cornstarch—any medium-sized bowl will do.

Step-by-step: how to make honey garlic shrimp

1. Velvet the shrimp: Start by combining the soy sauce and cornstarch in a bowl. Toss the shrimp in this mixture, ensuring they’re evenly coated. This step locks in moisture and keeps the shrimp tender. Let it sit for a few minutes while you prep the other ingredients.
2. Sizzle the aromatics: Heat your frying pan over medium heat, then add the vegetable oil. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, letting them cook for no longer than 30 seconds. (Trust me, you don’t want them to burn—they go from golden to bitter in a flash.)
3. Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Cook them for 1-2 minutes on each side, depending on their size. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they turn pink and opaque.
4. Make it saucy: Pour in the honey and sprinkle in the chilli flakes if using. Toss the shrimp in the sauce until they’re beautifully coated and glossy. This only takes about 30 seconds to a minute.
5. Finish with green onions: Remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle the shrimp with sliced green onions for a burst of freshness. That’s it—you’re done!

Variations to try: because options are fun

• Gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce, and make sure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free.
• Vegan twist: Swap shrimp for tofu cubes or cauliflower florets. Both work wonderfully with this sauce!
• Low-carb: Serve the shrimp over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of regular rice.
• Extra veggies: Toss in some stir-fry vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers. They’ll soak up the honey garlic sauce beautifully.
• Seasonal flair: In the summer, grill the shrimp and brush on the honey garlic sauce for a smoky twist. In the winter, add a splash of orange juice for a citrusy pop.

How to serve honey garlic shrimp like a pro

Serve this dish over a bed of steamed rice, fluffy quinoa, or even buttery mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, try it over a bed of greens for a warm salad.

For presentation, sprinkle the finished shrimp with sesame seeds or a drizzle of sesame oil for extra flavor. A lime wedge on the side adds a zesty burst of freshness.

Drinks that pair perfectly

Non-alcoholic drinks can truly elevate this dish:

• Sparkling water with lime: Crisp and refreshing, it balances the sweetness of the sauce.
• Ginger lemonade: The subtle spice from the ginger complements the flavors beautifully.
• Iced green tea: Light and earthy, it’s a great palate cleanser.
• Cucumber mint cooler: A cool, herbal twist that contrasts the bold honey garlic flavors.

Storage and reheating tips

If you’ve got leftovers (rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When reheating, use a non-stick pan over low heat and add a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can turn rubbery.

Unfortunately, this dish doesn’t freeze well since shrimp can become mushy after thawing.

Adjusting for different serving sizes

This recipe is super easy to scale. If you’re cooking for a larger group, just double or triple the ingredients. Keep in mind you may need to cook the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. When cooking for one, just halve everything—it’s as simple as that!

Common questions about honey garlic shrimp

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them fully before cooking. A quick rinse under cold water usually does the trick.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the shrimp and sauce ingredients in advance, but it’s best to cook the dish fresh for optimal flavor and texture.

3. What’s the best way to velvet shrimp?
The soy sauce and cornstarch combo in this recipe is foolproof, but you could also add a little egg white for an even silkier texture.

4. Can I make it less sweet?
Sure! Reduce the honey slightly or add a splash of rice vinegar for a tangy balance.

5. What’s the best side dish for this?
Steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even crusty bread to soak up that amazing sauce.

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