Easy One Pan Honey Garlic Shrimp

This Easy One Pan Honey Garlic Shrimp is a delightful meal that brings a touch of Asian cuisine to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish combines succulent shrimp with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. With minimal prep and cook time, you can whip up this flavorful meal in just 15 minutes or less!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 15 minutes to make, making it perfect for those busy evenings.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of honey and garlic creates a deliciously sticky sauce that elevates the shrimp to new heights.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Healthy Choice: With lean protein from shrimp and wholesome ingredients, it’s a nutritious option for families.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pan means less mess and more time enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this Easy One Pan Honey Garlic Shrimp, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Whisk
• Small bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A large skillet allows even cooking of the shrimp and helps in achieving that perfect sauce consistency.
• Whisk: Using a whisk ensures that all the ingredients for the sauce blend smoothly without clumps.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements are key to replicating that delicious honey garlic flavor every time.

Ingredients

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup honey
• 3 cloves garlic, pressed or finely minced
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Shrimp

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 – 3 1/2 cups fresh or frozen shrimp, thawed completely and rinsed (use shrimp with shells and tails on, or shrimp with the shells and tails removed)
• toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

How to Make Easy One Pan Honey Garlic Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, water, and cornstarch until well combined. Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil to the pan, ensuring it coats the bottom evenly.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for about 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink. Note that shrimp without tails and shells will cook faster than those with them.

Step 4: Combine with Sauce

Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce into the skillet with the cooked shrimp. Toss everything together until the sauce thickens and becomes sticky around the shrimp.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your Easy One Pan Honey Garlic Shrimp over rice. Add a side of steamed vegetables if desired, and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for an extra touch!

How to Serve Easy One Pan Honey Garlic Shrimp

This Easy One Pan Honey Garlic Shrimp is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Serve Over Rice

• White Rice: Fluffy white rice absorbs the honey garlic sauce beautifully.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice adds nuttiness and extra fiber.
• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that complements the shrimp well.

Add Steamed Vegetables

• Broccoli: Crisp-tender broccoli adds color and nutrients.
• Snow Peas: These sweet peas offer a nice crunch and bright flavor.
• Bell Peppers: Sautéed or steamed bell peppers enhance the dish’s visual appeal.

Garnish for Extra Flavor

• Toasted Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle these on top for added texture and nutty flavor.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide a fresh, vibrant finish.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro can add an aromatic touch that brightens the dish.

How to Perfect Easy One Pan Honey Garlic Shrimp

To achieve the best results with your Easy One Pan Honey Garlic Shrimp, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp yield better flavor and texture compared to frozen ones.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook shrimp in batches if necessary; this ensures even cooking.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer before serving.
• Experiment with Spices: Add red pepper flakes for heat or ginger for an extra kick.

Best Side Dishes for Easy One Pan Honey Garlic Shrimp

Pairing sides with your Easy One Pan Honey Garlic Shrimp can enhance its flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice is perfect for soaking up the honey garlic sauce.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with vegetables makes for a nutritious side.
3. Garlic Noodles: Tossed in garlic butter, these noodles complement the shrimp’s flavor profile.
4. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Quick stir-fried bok choy adds a crunchy texture and fresh taste.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad balances the dish’s sweetness while adding crunch.
6. Asian Slaw: This colorful slaw provides a tangy contrast to the rich shrimp dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy One Pan Honey Garlic Shrimp, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here’s how to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Ingredients: Not using fresh ingredients can dull the flavors. Always opt for fresh or well-thawed shrimp for the best taste.
• Overcooking Shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long can make them rubbery. Aim for 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink.
• Ignoring Sauce Consistency: If the sauce isn’t thick enough, it won’t cling to the shrimp. Be sure to whisk cornstarch in thoroughly before adding it to the pan.
• Skipping Garnishes: Neglecting garnishes like sesame seeds can lessen visual appeal. A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds texture and flavor.
• Using a Small Pan: Crowding the pan leads to uneven cooking. Use a large skillet so shrimp have enough space to cook evenly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the shrimp to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Easy One Pan Honey Garlic Shrimp

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Separate portions for easy meal prep.

Reheating Easy One Pan Honey Garlic Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring gently until warmed, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries related to Easy One Pan Honey Garlic Shrimp that might help clarify your cooking process.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp is acceptable as long as it’s thawed completely before cooking for even results.

What can I serve with Easy One Pan Honey Garlic Shrimp?

This dish pairs well with rice or quinoa and steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

How do I know when shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. They should also curl slightly but not be overly curled.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Easy One Pan Honey Garlic Shrimp is perfect for meal prep as it stores and reheats well.

Final Thoughts

Easy One Pan Honey Garlic Shrimp is not only quick and delicious but also highly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the sweetness of the sauce. This recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household, providing warmth and satisfaction with every bite!