Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage And Broccoli
If you want a dinner that feels special but still fits into a busy week, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage And Broccoli recipe is a great one to keep on repeat. It brings together sweet honey, salty soy sauce, tender shrimp, smoky kielbasa, and crisp broccoli in one skillet meal that comes together fast and tastes like something you ordered at a favorite casual spot.
- Easy to make: The steps are simple, and most of the cooking happens in one skillet. That means less cleanup and less stress after a long day.
- Good balance of protein and veggies: Shrimp, sausage, and broccoli make this a filling meal with plenty of flavor and a nice mix of textures.
- Flexible for different needs: You can swap the sausage, skip the red pepper flakes, or add extra vegetables based on what you have on hand.
- Big flavor in every bite: The sweet and savory sauce coats everything nicely, and the browned sausage gives the dish a deep, rich taste.
It is also a helpful recipe for home cooks who like meals that can be served over rice and stretched into a full dinner for the family. If you enjoy easy skillet meals, you may also like this chicken vegetable fried rice recipe for another simple weeknight option.
This is the kind of meal that makes a busy night feel a little easier, while still giving you something warm, filling, and worth sharing.
For readers who like hearty seafood dishes, you can also check out this BBQ shrimp recipe for another crowd-friendly favorite from the kitchen.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage And Broccoli
- Essential Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage And Broccoli
- Main Ingredients
- Special Dietary Options
- How to Prepare the Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage And Broccoli: Step-by-Step Guide
- First Step: Mix the sauce and get the shrimp ready
- Second Step: Cook the broccoli first
- Third Step: Brown the sausage
- Fourth Step: Cook the shrimp
- Fifth Step: Add the reserved sauce and bring everything together
- Final Step: Serve and garnish
- Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage And Broccoli
- Protein and Main Component Alternatives
- Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications
- Mastering Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage And Broccoli: Advanced Tips and Variations
- Pro cooking techniques
- Flavor variations
- Presentation tips
- Make-ahead options
- How to Store Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage And Broccoli: Best Practices
- Refrigeration
- Freezing
- Reheating
- Meal prep considerations
- FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage And Broccoli
- How do you make garlic butter shrimp sausage and broccoli?
- Can I freeze garlic butter shrimp sausage and broccoli?
- How long does garlic butter shrimp sausage and broccoli last in the fridge?
- Can I use frozen shrimp for garlic butter shrimp sausage and broccoli?
- What can I substitute in garlic butter shrimp sausage and broccoli recipe?
- Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage And Broccoli
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Last Step:
- Notes
- Nutrition
- Did you make this recipe?
Essential Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage And Broccoli
Here is everything you need for this recipe, with each ingredient measured out clearly so you can shop and cook with confidence.
Main Ingredients
- 1/3 cup honey – Adds sweetness and helps the sauce caramelize lightly in the skillet.
- 1/3 cup soy sauce – Brings the salty, savory base that balances the honey.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Adds brightness and helps cut through the richness of the sausage.
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic – Gives the sauce a warm, garlicky flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes – Adds a little heat; you can leave it out for a milder version.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails removed – Cooks quickly and soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided – Helps sauté the broccoli and brown the sausage.
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets – Adds color, crunch, and a fresh veggie bite.
- 1 ring (13 ounces) kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds – Gives the dish a smoky, savory flavor.
- Cooked white rice, for serving – Soaks up the sauce and turns the skillet meal into a full dinner.
- Chopped parsley, for garnish – Adds freshness and a bright finish.
Special Dietary Options
- Vegan: Swap shrimp and kielbasa for plant-based sausage and tofu or chickpeas. Use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and check that your sausage is gluten-free.
- Low-calorie: Use less honey, serve over cauliflower rice, and choose turkey or chicken sausage if you want a lighter meal.
| Ingredient | Why It Matters | Easy Swap |
|---|---|---|
| Honey | Adds sweetness and helps glaze the shrimp | Maple syrup or less honey |
| Soy sauce | Gives the sauce its savory backbone | Low-sodium soy sauce or tamari |
| Kielbasa | Creates smoky flavor and heartiness | Andouille or chorizo |
| Broccoli | Adds texture and color | Snap peas, green beans, zucchini, or asparagus |
How to Prepare the Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage And Broccoli: Step-by-Step Guide
This recipe moves quickly once you start cooking, so it helps to have everything ready before the skillet heats up. The full recipe takes about 45 minutes total, including 10 minutes of prep, 15 minutes of cook time, and 20 minutes of marinating time.
First Step: Mix the sauce and get the shrimp ready
Start by whisking together the 1/3 cup honey, 1/3 cup soy sauce, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes in a medium bowl. This makes the sweet and savory sauce that gives the whole dish its bold flavor.
Once the sauce is mixed, remove about one-third of it and set it aside for later. Add the 1 pound large shrimp to the remaining sauce and let them marinate for 20 minutes to 2 hours. If you are short on time, even a shorter marinate still adds good flavor. The shrimp should be peeled, deveined, and have the tails removed so they are easy to eat.
Second Step: Cook the broccoli first
Heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the 1 head broccoli cut into florets and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring now and then, until the broccoli is tender but still a little crisp.
Take the broccoli out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Cooking it first keeps it bright and prevents it from turning soggy later. If you like softer broccoli, you can give it an extra minute or two, but try not to overcook it.
Third Step: Brown the sausage
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add the 1 ring kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the slices are browned on the outside.
This step builds flavor in the pan because the sausage picks up some of the broccoli bits left behind. Those little browned pieces help deepen the sauce later. If you want to switch things up, Andouille or chorizo both work well here, especially if your family likes a little more spice.
Fourth Step: Cook the shrimp
Add the marinated shrimp to the skillet with the browned sausage. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side, just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. If they cook too long, they can turn rubbery.
It helps to spread the shrimp into a single layer so they cook evenly. If your skillet is small, cook them in two batches instead of crowding the pan.
Fifth Step: Add the reserved sauce and bring everything together
Pour in the reserved sauce and let it simmer for 3 to 5 minutes. The sauce should thicken slightly and coat the shrimp and sausage. Stir often so the sauce does not stick to the bottom of the pan.
After that, return the broccoli to the skillet and toss everything together until well coated. The broccoli should soak up some of the sauce while still keeping a little bite. This is the point where the whole dish starts to look really appetizing.
Final Step: Serve and garnish
Spoon the finished shrimp, sausage, and broccoli over cooked white rice. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color.
For the best texture, do not walk away during the last few minutes. Shrimp and sauce both cook fast, and a few extra minutes can change the whole dish.
This meal serves 4 and comes in at about 646 calories per serving without rice. It is filling enough for dinner, but still simple enough for a regular weeknight.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage And Broccoli
Protein and Main Component Alternatives
If you need to change the protein, this recipe gives you some room to work. You can swap the kielbasa for Andouille sausage or chorizo if you want a bolder, spicier flavor. For a lighter version, turkey or chicken sausage is a good choice too.
Pre-cooked shrimp also work well, especially on nights when you need dinner on the table fast. Just add them near the end so they warm through without overcooking. If shrimp is not your thing, scallops can work in a similar way, though chicken will need to be cooked first before you add the sauce.
Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications
The broccoli can be swapped or paired with other vegetables depending on what is in your fridge. Try bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, green beans, mushrooms, zucchini, or asparagus. Just adjust the cooking time so everything stays tender and colorful.
If you want less heat, leave out the red pepper flakes. If you want more sweetness, add a little pineapple to the skillet or reduce the sauce for a stickier finish. For a lower-sugar version, cut back on the honey a bit. A gluten-free version is easy too, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and choose a safe sausage.
Mastering Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage And Broccoli: Advanced Tips and Variations
Once you have made this recipe once, it becomes easy to adjust it to your taste. A few small moves can make the final dish even better.
Pro cooking techniques
- Pat the shrimp dry before marinating so the sauce sticks better.
- Use a large skillet so the shrimp and sausage brown instead of steam.
- Cook the broccoli just until tender to keep it bright and crisp.
- Reserve the sauce before marinating so you always have a clean portion for finishing.
Flavor variations
If you like extra heat, add more red pepper flakes or a spoonful of hot sauce. For a sweeter style, a little pineapple works nicely with the honey and soy sauce. You can also add a splash more lemon juice at the end for a brighter finish.
To give the dish a richer feel, serve it with buttered rice or toss it with noodles instead of plain rice. If you are cooking for a group, this recipe pairs well with simple sides and travels nicely in a covered dish. That makes it a solid option for potlucks, church suppers, and family get-togethers.
Presentation tips
For a nice finish, spoon the rice into bowls first, then top with the shrimp, sausage, and broccoli. Add parsley right before serving so it stays fresh and bright. A lemon wedge on the side also looks nice and gives people a way to add more citrus if they like.
Make-ahead options
You can mix the sauce earlier in the day and marinate the shrimp for up to 2 hours before cooking. You can also cut the broccoli and slice the sausage ahead of time so dinner moves faster later. If you are planning for a busy week, make a double batch and store the extra portions for lunches.
How to Store Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage And Broccoli: Best Practices
Leftovers keep well when stored the right way, which makes this dish handy for meal prep and next-day lunches.
Refrigeration
Let the dish cool, then place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Keep it at 40°F or below. The broccoli may soften a little, but the flavor stays good.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 to 3 months. Let the dish cool fully before freezing so condensation does not form. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For the best texture, warm leftovers in a skillet over low heat with a small splash of water or oil. You can also use the microwave in short bursts, stirring halfway through. Reheat until the dish reaches 165°F.
Meal prep considerations
This recipe works well for batch cooking because it holds up for a few days and makes a filling lunch. If you are packing it for work or school, keep the rice separate until serving if possible. That helps the broccoli and shrimp stay a little better in texture.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage And Broccoli
How do you make garlic butter shrimp sausage and broccoli?
To make garlic butter shrimp sausage and broccoli, start with 1 lb shrimp, 12 oz sausage (sliced), 4 cups broccoli florets, 4 tbsp butter, 4 minced garlic cloves, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Heat 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high. Cook sausage 4-5 minutes until browned. Add shrimp and broccoli; cook 3-4 minutes until shrimp turns pink. Push ingredients aside, melt remaining butter with garlic for 1 minute. Stir everything together, season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon. Cook 2 more minutes. Serves 4 in under 20 minutes. Use fresh shrimp for best texture, and slice broccoli uniformly for even cooking. Pair with rice or pasta for a full meal. This one-pan dish keeps flavors juicy without overcooking. (98 words)
Can I freeze garlic butter shrimp sausage and broccoli?
Yes, you can freeze garlic butter shrimp sausage and broccoli for later. Let the dish cool completely to room temperature to avoid condensation and ice crystals. Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing excess air. Label with the date—it stays good for 2-3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of butter to restore moisture, or microwave in short bursts, stirring halfway. Avoid refreezing after thawing for best quality. Shrimp texture holds up well if not overcooked initially. Freezing works great for meal prep. (102 words)
How long does garlic butter shrimp sausage and broccoli last in the fridge?
Garlic butter shrimp sausage and broccoli lasts 3-4 days in the fridge when stored properly. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container right after cooling to prevent bacterial growth. Keep at 40°F or below. Reheat to 165°F internal temperature—use a skillet for crisp broccoli or microwave covered with a damp paper towel. Check for off smells or sliminess before eating; discard if in doubt. For longer storage, freeze as noted earlier. This dish has about 350 calories per serving with 25g protein, making it a healthy option. Pro tip: Add fresh herbs upon reheating for renewed flavor. (96 words)
Can I use frozen shrimp for garlic butter shrimp sausage and broccoli?
Absolutely, frozen shrimp works perfectly for garlic butter shrimp sausage and broccoli and often tastes fresher than thawed market shrimp. Thaw in the fridge overnight or under cold running water for 10-15 minutes—pat dry thoroughly to avoid watery sauce. Use 1 lb peeled, deveined shrimp. Cook straight from frozen by adding 1-2 extra minutes to the skillet time, ensuring they reach 145°F internally. No need to adjust other ingredients. This saves time and reduces waste. Frozen shrimp retain nutrients equally well. For best results, buy tail-off for easy eating. Links to our shrimp buying guide for tips. (98 words)
What can I substitute in garlic butter shrimp sausage and broccoli recipe?
Garlic butter shrimp sausage and broccoli is flexible for substitutions. Swap shrimp for scallops or chicken (cook chicken first). Use turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork for lower fat—same slicing and cooking time. If broccoli is unavailable, try zucchini, asparagus, or green beans; all cook in 4-5 minutes. For dairy-free, use olive oil or ghee instead of butter. Gluten-free? It’s naturally so. Add red pepper flakes for heat or parmesan for creaminess post-cook. Adjust seasonings to taste. These changes keep the dish under 400 calories per serving. See our low-carb veggie swaps article for more ideas. (97 words)

Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage And Broccoli
🦐🍯 Savor the irresistible sweet-savory glaze of honey and garlic coating tender shrimp and smoky kielbasa sausage, delivering bold flavors in every bite.
🥦🌭 This quick one-pan meal with crisp broccoli is nutritious, satisfying, and ready in under 45 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
– 1/3 cup honey
– 1/3 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon minced garlic
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails removed
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
– 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
– 1 ring (13 ounces) kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
– Cooked white rice, for serving
– Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1-First Step: Mix the sauce and get the shrimp ready Start by whisking together the 1/3 cup honey, 1/3 cup soy sauce, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes in a medium bowl. This makes the sweet and savory sauce that gives the whole dish its bold flavor. Once the sauce is mixed, remove about one-third of it and set it aside for later. Add the 1 pound large shrimp to the remaining sauce and let them marinate for 20 minutes to 2 hours. If you are short on time, even a shorter marinate still adds good flavor. The shrimp should be peeled, deveined, and have the tails removed so they are easy to eat.
2-Second Step: Cook the broccoli first Heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the 1 head broccoli cut into florets and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring now and then, until the broccoli is tender but still a little crisp. Take the broccoli out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Cooking it first keeps it bright and prevents it from turning soggy later. If you like softer broccoli, you can give it an extra minute or two, but try not to overcook it.
3-Third Step: Brown the sausage In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add the 1 ring kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the slices are browned on the outside. This step builds flavor in the pan because the sausage picks up some of the broccoli bits left behind. Those little browned pieces help deepen the sauce later. If you want to switch things up, Andouille or chorizo both work well here, especially if your family likes a little more spice.
4-Fourth Step: Cook the shrimp Add the marinated shrimp to the skillet with the browned sausage. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side, just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. If they cook too long, they can turn rubbery. It helps to spread the shrimp into a single layer so they cook evenly. If your skillet is small, cook them in two batches instead of crowding the pan.
5-Fifth Step: Add the reserved sauce and bring everything together Pour in the reserved sauce and let it simmer for 3 to 5 minutes. The sauce should thicken slightly and coat the shrimp and sausage. Stir often so the sauce does not stick to the bottom of the pan. After that, return the broccoli to the skillet and toss everything together until well coated. The broccoli should soak up some of the sauce while still keeping a little bite. This is the point where the whole dish starts to look really appetizing.
6-Final Step: Serve and garnish Spoon the finished shrimp, sausage, and broccoli over cooked white rice. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🌶️ Omit the red pepper flakes for a milder sauce suitable for kids.
🥦 Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots (adjust cooking times as needed).
❄️ Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for 2-3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinate: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 646 calories (without rice)
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 1750mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 150mg





