Easy Honey Garlic Shrimp with Sausage & Veggies

A Flavor-Packed, Quick, and Healthy Meal

This honey garlic shrimp with sausage and veggies is a perfect weeknight dinner that’s bursting with bold flavors. The combination of juicy shrimp, savory sausage, and fresh vegetables coated in a sweet and garlicky glaze makes this dish a favorite for the whole family. It’s a one-pan meal that’s simple to prepare, easy to clean up, and packed with protein and nutrients.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Balanced: The honey garlic sauce adds a delightful sweet-savory balance.
• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup.
• Customizable: Swap veggies and protein to fit your preferences.
• Healthy and Satisfying: A well-rounded meal with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.

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Ingredients

For the honey garlic sauce:

• ¼ cup honey
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

For the main dish:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 6 ounces smoked sausage, sliced (such as andouille or kielbasa)
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (mix of red, yellow, or green)
• 1 cup zucchini, sliced
• ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For garnish:

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Sesame seeds

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.

2. Cook the Sausage

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for about 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion. Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the veggies are tender but still crisp. Remove and set aside with the sausage.

4. Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet and pour in the honey garlic sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turns pink and opaque.

5. Combine Everything

Return the cooked sausage and veggies to the skillet with the shrimp. Stir everything together and let it cook for 1-2 more minutes so the flavors meld.

6. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped parsley and sesame seeds. Serve hot over rice, quinoa, or enjoy as is!

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Use chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different take.
• Veggie Variations: Try mushrooms, broccoli, asparagus, or snap peas.
• Spice It Up: Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Low-Carb Version: Skip the honey or reduce the amount for a less sweet sauce.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked shrimp, sausage, and veggies for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I prevent shrimp from overcooking?

Shrimp cooks very quickly, so keep an eye on them. They should turn pink and opaque within 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery.

What type of sausage works best?

Smoked sausage like andouille, kielbasa, or chicken sausage works well. They add a nice depth of flavor to the dish.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the sauce and chop the veggies ahead of time. However, shrimp is best cooked fresh.

What can I serve this dish with?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, noodles, or even a simple side salad.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has mild heat from red pepper flakes, but you can omit them if you prefer a milder taste.

Can I cook this in the oven?

Yes! Toss everything with the sauce and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, stirring once halfway through.

What’s the best way to get a good sear on the shrimp?

Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the shrimp, and avoid overcrowding the pan. Cooking in batches helps achieve a nice sear.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add them at the end and just heat through for 1-2 minutes to avoid overcooking.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

For a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water and add it to the pan while cooking the shrimp.

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Final Thoughts

This easy honey garlic shrimp with sausage and veggies is the ultimate quick and flavorful meal. It’s perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or even a casual gathering. With its vibrant mix of protein, vegetables, and a mouthwatering sauce, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy!

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