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honey garlic butter shrimp

Easy Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp

Delicious Easy Honey Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe with step-by-step instructions.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 37 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Calories: 1125
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

For the shrimp
  • 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tail-on)
  • 1/3 cup cornstarch
  • Vegetable oil for shallow frying
For the sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp toasted sesame oil
  • 3 1/2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp garlic (freshly minced)
  • 1/2 tsp fresh ginger (grated)
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 4 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
For the garnish
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro (chopped)
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds

Method
 

  1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels—this is crucial for achieving a golden crust when frying. In a shallow bowl, combine cornstarch, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss the shrimp in this mixture until evenly coated, shaking off any excess. Measure out all remaining ingredients (garlic, ginger, honey, vinegar, butter, oils, sesame seeds, and cilantro) into separate small bowls so everything is ready when you need it.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers (about 2-3 minutes). Working in batches to avoid crowding, carefully place the cornstarch-coated shrimp into the hot oil. Fry for 1.5 to 2 minutes per side until golden and cooked through—the shrimp should have a slight crust but still be tender inside. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  3. Return the now-empty skillet to medium heat and add the olive oil and 1.5 tablespoons of the butter. Once the butter foams, immediately add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant—don't let them brown. Add the red pepper flakes and stir for another 10 seconds. Pour in the honey and rice vinegar, stirring well to combine. I like to let this simmer for about 1 minute so the flavors meld together and the sauce becomes slightly glossy.
  4. Whisk the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter into the simmering sauce along with the sesame oil, creating a creamy, luxurious coating. Gently stir the fried shrimp back into the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Let everything simmer together for just 30 seconds to warm the shrimp through and allow the flavors to meld. For the best texture, I prefer to add the shrimp back at the very end so they stay tender and don't overcook in the sauce.
  5. Transfer the honey garlic butter shrimp to a serving plate or individual bowls. Sprinkle generously with fresh cilantro and toasted sesame seeds for a pop of color and nutty flavor. Serve immediately while the sauce is still warm, alongside steamed rice, lettuce wraps, or your preferred accompaniment.