Honey Garlic Shrimp & Sausage Skillet

If your evenings have been a whirlwind of busy schedules and you’re craving a dinner that feels like a warm hug, this Honey Garlic Shrimp & Sausage Skillet is precisely what you need. This skillet meal is a masterclass in combining sweet, savory, and smoky flavors in just one pan. The tender shrimp soak up that luscious honey garlic sauce, while the smoky sausage adds depth and a subtle spice. As someone who adores quick dinner recipes, I can’t help but smile thinking about how effortlessly this dish comes together—making it perfect for beginner cooks or anyone looking for a satisfying, easy recipes win.

I remember the first time I tried this recipe after a particularly hectic day: I was starving, short on time, and craving something comforting. Within 15 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking, my kitchen filled with mouthwatering aromas, and I sat down to a plate that felt gourmet but was delightfully simple. It’s the kind of dish that sparks joy—stirring vibrant shrimp and sausage in a golden sauce, then garnishing it with fresh green onions or parsley. Whether you’re hosting friends or unwinding with family, this skillet meal is your ticket to a fuss-free, delicious dinner that everyone will rave about.

KEY INGREDIENTS IN HONEY GARLIC SHRIMP & SAUSAGE SKILLET

Before we dive into the cooking steps, let’s take a closer look at the star players in this shrimp recipe. Each ingredient was chosen for its unique contribution to the overall flavor profile—sweet, smoky, savory, and just a hint of heat.

• Shrimp

Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are the heart of this dish. Their natural sweetness and firm texture make them perfect for quick skillet cooking, ensuring they stay juicy and tender.

• Smoked Sausage

Whether you choose Andouille or Kielbasa, the sausage brings a deep, smoky flavor and satisfying bite. When sliced and seared, it crisps up beautifully and adds a savory contrast to the shrimp.

• Honey

This golden liquid lends a natural sweetness that balances the saltiness of the soy sauce. It also helps create a glossy, sticky sauce that clings to every morsel.

• Soy Sauce

An umami powerhouse, soy sauce enriches the sauce with salty depth. For a gluten-free twist, swap in tamari and watch the flavor shine just as bright.

• Garlic

Freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with pungent warmth and aromatic charm. It’s the perfect partner to honey, creating that irresistible honey garlic combination.

• Olive Oil

A drizzle of olive oil ensures even cooking and prevents sticking. It also adds a hint of fruitiness that complements the other ingredients.

• Paprika

With its vibrant red hue and mild smokiness, paprika not only colors the shrimp but also layers in a subtle warmth.

• Red Pepper Flakes

An optional addition, these flakes introduce a touch of heat. A little goes a long way, so adjust to your spice preference.

• Salt & Black Pepper

Simple seasonings that highlight and enhance the other flavors, ensuring each bite is perfectly balanced.

• Green Onions or Parsley

A fresh garnish that brings a pop of color and a bright, herby finish to this skillet meal.

HOW TO MAKE HONEY GARLIC SHRIMP & SAUSAGE SKILLET

Now that we know what goes into this quick dinner, let’s walk through how to transform these simple ingredients into a mouthwatering skillet masterpiece.

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Set this marinade aside so the flavors can meld while you prepare the other components.

2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil is shimmering slightly—this ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.

3. Add the smoked sausage slices, cooking for 2–3 minutes until they’re nicely browned and slightly crispy around the edges. Once they reach that perfect golden crust, transfer them to a plate and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, add the shrimp. Sprinkle with paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

5. Pour the honey garlic mixture into the skillet. Use a spatula to stir everything, making sure each shrimp is thoroughly coated with that glossy sauce.

6. Return the sausage to the skillet, stirring to combine all the flavors in one harmonious pan.

7. Lower the heat to medium, allowing the sauce to simmer and the flavors to meld together for another 2–3 minutes.

8. Once every component is heated through and bubbling with flavor, garnish with chopped green onions or parsley before serving.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR HONEY GARLIC SHRIMP & SAUSAGE SKILLET

When it comes to plating this skillet meal, the fun really begins. The rich, sticky sauce begs to be soaked up, and colorful accompaniments will make your dinner table pop. Here are a few ideas to help you serve this dish in style:

• Over Fluffy Rice or Quinoa

Spoon the shrimp and sausage over a bed of steamed rice or light quinoa. The grains will absorb every drop of the honey garlic sauce, making each bite irresistibly saucy.

• With Steamed or Roasted Vegetables

Add a side of bright broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, or asparagus. The crisp-tender veggies provide a fresh contrast to the rich skillet flavors.

• Alongside Warm Crusty Bread

Place a loaf of crusty baguette or ciabatta on the table. Diners can tear off pieces to mop up the extra sauce, turning a simple meal into a communal feast.

• Family-Style in the Skillet

For casual entertaining, bring the skillet to the table. Garnish with extra fresh herbs and lemon wedges, encouraging guests to serve themselves and customize each plate.

HOW TO STORE HONEY GARLIC SHRIMP & SAUSAGE SKILLET

If you happen to have leftovers—and trust me, it’s rare—you’ll want to keep them tasting as fresh as the day you cooked them. Proper storage is key to maintaining that sweet-savory balance and texture:

• Refrigerate in an Airtight Container

Transfer cooled leftovers to a sealed container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you reheat, do so gently over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

• Freeze for Longer Preservation

Portion the skillet into freezer-safe bags or containers. Label with the date and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to preserve texture.

• Reheat on the Stovetop

For best results, warm leftovers in a skillet over low-medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.

• Restore Freshness with a Splash

If the sauce has thickened in storage, whisk in a little extra soy sauce or olive oil when reheating. This will refresh the flavors and restore the perfect consistency.

CONCLUSION

What started as a quick, one-skillet recipe has turned into a versatile favorite for busy weeknights and laid-back weekends alike. From the first whisk of honey, soy sauce, and garlic to the final sprinkle of bright green onions, every step builds layers of flavor that come together in under 30 minutes. The tender shrimp and smoky sausage deliver a satisfying bite, while the sweet-savory sauce ties everything together in a delicious harmony. Don’t forget to serve it over rice, alongside veggies, or with crusty bread to make the most of that rich sauce. And if you’ve got leftovers, proper storage and reheating tips will keep your next meal just as delightful.

Feel free to print this article and save it for your recipe box—you’ll want to come back to it again and again. Below, you’ll find a helpful FAQ section to troubleshoot any questions or substitutions (check it out after you’ve tried the dish!). If you have comments, creative twists, or any questions about the cooking process, drop a note. I love hearing from home cooks who bring their own flair to these skillet meals. Whether you need support or just want to share how it turned out, your feedback is always welcome. Enjoy your Honey Garlic Shrimp & Sausage Skillet adventure!

Print Recipe

Honey Garlic Shrimp & Sausage Skillet

Author: Laura Mitchell Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 15 mins Total Time 30 mins

Calories: 350

Description

Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory with tender shrimp and smoky sausage, all tossed in a rich honey garlic sauce. Ready in just one skillet!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 4 to 5 ounces smoked sausage, sliced (such as Andouille or Kielbasa)

• 3 tablespoons honey

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the smoked sausage slices, cooking for 2-3 minutes until they're browned and slightly crispy. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the shrimp. Sprinkle with paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque.
5. Pour the honey garlic mixture into the skillet. Stir well to ensure the shrimp are thoroughly coated.
6. Return the sausage to the skillet, stirring to combine everything.
7. Lower the heat to medium, allowing the flavors to meld together for another 2-3 minutes.
8. Once all components are heated through and flavorful, garnish with chopped green onions or parsley before serving.

Note

• For a gluten-free version, opt for a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
• Serve with rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Adding some bell peppers or broccoli can offer a colorful twist and extra nutrition.
• If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the honey by 1 tablespoon.

Keywords: shrimp recipe, honey garlic, smoked sausage, quick dinner, skillet meals, easy recipes