Picture this: a hectic weeknight after a long day, and the last thing I want is another uninspired dinner. Suddenly, the tantalizing aroma of honey and garlic fills the kitchen. In just 10 minutes, I create a dish that transforms my mood from exhausted to elated—I can’t resist the call of 10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp!
With just a handful of pantry staples, this dish proves that you don’t need hours to whip up something truly special. Each succulent bite offers the perfect balance of sweetness and a hint of savory warmth, making it an instant family favorite. Not only is this recipe quick and easy, but it also elevates your dinner table game, bringing the charm of Asian-inspired flavors right to your home.
So, grab your shrimp and let’s turn your ordinary evening into an extraordinary dining experience—all in less time than it takes to order takeout!
Why will you love 10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp?
Simplicity: This dish is incredibly straightforward, letting you whip up a gourmet meal with minimal effort.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet honey and aromatic garlic create a mouthwatering combination that’s sure to impress.
Quick Cooking: In just 10 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on the table—perfect for busy weeknights!
Guilt-Free Goodness: This recipe is a protein-packed option that’s both satisfying and lower in carbs.
Endless Versatility: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or adjust the sweetness and heat to your liking.
Elevate your ordinary evenings with this stunning recipe, and if you prefer a lighter fare, check out our easy alternatives in the variations section.
10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- Shrimp – The star ingredient, providing a tender protein base; ensure shrimp are peeled and deveined for convenience.
- Cornstarch – Gives the shrimp a velvety texture while cooking; optional if not using the ‘velveting’ technique.
For the Sauce
- Soy Sauce – Adds depth of flavor; use light soy sauce for a less salty taste or gluten-free soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
- Honey – Sweetens the dish and creates the sticky glaze; maple syrup can be a delicious substitute for a different flavor profile.
- Garlic – Provides aromatic flavor; fresh minced garlic is recommended for the best taste.
- Ginger Paste or Grated Ginger – Offers a spicy, fragrant element; substitute with powdered ginger if necessary.
- Chili Flakes (optional) – Adds a kick of heat; adjust based on your spice preference.
For Cooking
- Vegetable Oil – For frying; choose a neutral oil for the best results.
For Garnish
- Green Onions – Enhance presentation with freshness; can be replaced with chives for a different touch.
Now that you have all the essentials, you’re one step closer to creating your delicious 10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp. Get your ingredients ready, and let the cooking adventure begin!
How to Make 10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce and cornstarch. Toss the shrimp in the mixture until they’re evenly coated. This “velveting” technique ensures tender shrimp, so don’t skip this step!
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat a generous drizzle of vegetable oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
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Cook Shrimp: Gently add the coated shrimp to the pan. Sear them for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they’re opaque and fully cooked, turning a beautiful pink color.
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Create the Glaze: Pour in the honey and sprinkle chili flakes over the shrimp. Toss everything together for about 1 minute to ensure the shrimp are well-coated in the sticky, fragrant sauce.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish your dish with freshly sliced green onions for an extra pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately to enjoy the best taste and texture!
Optional: Serve over fluffy white rice or with steamed vegetables for a wholesome meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with 10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp?
Transform your dinner into a delightful experience filled with vibrant flavors and textures.
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Fluffy White Rice: This simple base soaks up the honey garlic sauce beautifully, balancing the dish’s sweetness with a comforting texture.
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Steamed Broccoli: Its mild taste and crunchy texture contrast well against the soft shrimp, adding a nutritious green element.
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Crispy Snap Peas: These add a fresh crunch and sweetness that complements the shrimp, making each bite a textural delight.
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Fragrant Jasmine Rice: Offering a floral aroma and slight nuttiness, jasmine rice elevates the dish while pairing effortlessly with the Asian-inspired flavors.
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Asian Slaw: A zesty mixture of shredded cabbage and carrots adds a refreshing crunch and piques the taste buds with each nibble.
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Garlic Butter Noodles: If you crave something indulgent, these silky noodles coated in garlic butter will make your trip to flavor town unforgettable.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, this salad provides a crunchy contrast to the warm shrimp, balancing the meal beautifully.
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Sesame Green Beans: Lightly sautéed and sprinkled with sesame seeds, they offer a nutty flavor that enhances the dish’s overall taste.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet finale, serve this dessert that brings a tropical flair, tying together the meal with a touch of indulgence.
Storage Tips for 10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp
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Fridge: Store leftover cooked shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the shrimp fresh and flavorful for your next meal!
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the honey garlic shrimp in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Allow to cool completely before freezing to maintain quality.
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Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen shrimp in the fridge overnight. Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of water or in the microwave until heated through, ensuring they stay juicy.
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Serving Suggestions: Serve reheated shrimp over rice or noodles for a quick reheated dinner, making sure to enjoy the full flavor of your 10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp!
Expert Tips for 10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp
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Perfect Timing: Cook shrimp quickly to avoid rubbery texture; only 1-2 minutes per side depending on shrimp size ensures optimal tenderness.
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Velveting Technique: Don’t skip the “velveting” technique with cornstarch; it helps keep the shrimp juicy and enhances the overall texture of your 10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp.
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Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh minced garlic and ginger if possible; they provide a more vibrant flavor compared to powdered versions.
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Thawing Frozen Shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them under cold water before cooking to ensure even cooking and best results.
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Adjusting Spice Levels: Feel free to customize the chili flakes to suit your spice tolerance; start with a pinch and add more for a hotter kick if desired.
Make Ahead Options
These 10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the garlic, grate the ginger, and even coat the shrimp in soy sauce and cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain the shrimp’s tenderness, avoid marinating them in the sauce overnight. When ready to cook, simply heat oil, sauté the aromatics, and add the prepped shrimp. Once cooked, toss in the honey and chili flakes, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in under 10 minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights!
10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic dish and elevate your culinary experience!
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Veggie-Packed: Add steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas during the last minute of cooking for a wholesome, colorful meal.
Bursting with nutrients, the veggies not only add texture but also enhance the visual appeal of your dish. -
Spicy Kick: Infuse more heat by adding sliced fresh chili peppers along with the garlic and ginger.
This will give your shrimp a fiery twist that spice lovers will absolutely adore! -
Coconut Creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk while cooking to create a creamy version of the sauce.
The richness of coconut adds an exciting tropical note that contrasts beautifully with the sweet honey. -
Citrus Zest: Include a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice just before serving for a bright, tangy finish.
The citrus will elevate the sweetness and provide a refreshing burst of flavor. -
Brown Sugar Boost: Substitute honey with brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor in the sauce.
This swap offers a rich, molasses-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with shrimp, creating a comforting dish. -
Garlicky Goodness: Double the amount of garlic for an intense flavor punch if you’re a garlic lover!
The robust garlic taste will linger on your palate, making each bite unforgettable. -
Asian Fusion: Add a tablespoon of fish sauce or sesame oil for an extra layer of umami flavor.
This twist brings genuine Asian-inspired notes that will transport your taste buds to culinary paradise. -
Herbaceous Twist: Finish with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to brighten the dish.
The fresh herbs will introduce a burst of freshness, making your shrimp dish vibrant and aromatic.
10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Opt for fresh shrimp that are peeled and deveined for the best results. If you choose frozen shrimp, thaw them under cold water before cooking to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor. I often recommend medium to large shrimp for a more satisfying bite!
How do I store leftover honey garlic shrimp?
Leftover cooked shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It’s a great way to enjoy the delicious flavors again! Just make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing the container to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze honey garlic shrimp?
Yes, you can! To freeze, simply let the cooked shrimp cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. For best results, label and date your container.
What if my shrimp turn out rubbery?
Very! If your shrimp end up rubbery, it’s often because they were overcooked. Make sure to cook them only 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Additionally, using the “velveting” technique with cornstarch helps retain their tenderness, so don’t skip that step!
Can I adjust the sweetness level in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can increase or decrease the amount of honey based on your taste preference. If you prefer a less sweet flavor, start with a smaller amount of honey and gradually stir in more until you reach your desired sweetness. Alternatively, you can substitute honey with maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
Is this dish safe for gluten-free diets?
Very! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce. This option still provides that umami richness without the gluten. Enjoy your meal worry-free!
10 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp for a Quick Dinner Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce and cornstarch. Toss the shrimp in the mixture until they're evenly coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Gently add the coated shrimp to the pan. Sear them for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they're opaque and fully cooked.
- Pour in the honey and sprinkle chili flakes over the shrimp. Toss everything together for about 1 minute to ensure the shrimp are well-coated.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly sliced green onions. Serve immediately.