If you’re craving something vibrant, wholesome, and irresistibly delicious, this Garlic Butter Shrimp & Veggie Mash Bowl is your next must-try meal. It’s a hearty, colorful bowl packed with protein-rich shrimp sautéed in garlic butter, laid atop a velvety bed of mashed vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and peas. It’s everything you want in a comforting yet nutritious dish—light enough for lunch, satisfying enough for dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This meal isn’t just pretty to look at—it’s a power-packed combination of taste and nutrition. With the bold, buttery garlic flavor infused into juicy shrimp, paired with a naturally sweet and creamy veggie mash, this bowl offers a balanced blend of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
Whether you’re cooking for family or meal-prepping for the week, this bowl delivers on flavor and presentation. And the best part? It’s a one-bowl wonder that doesn’t require complicated techniques.
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Garlic Butter Shrimp & Veggie Mash Bowl: Recipe Details
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Cook Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 40 minutes
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Category: Main Course
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Cuisine: American / Fusion
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Servings: 2–3 bowls
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Calories per Serving: ~430 kcal
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Shrimp:
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1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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3 tbsp unsalted butter
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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½ tsp paprika
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¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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Juice of ½ lemon
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
For the Veggie Mash:
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2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
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1 cup carrots, sliced
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½ cup green peas (frozen or fresh)
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2 tbsp unsalted butter or olive oil
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Salt to taste
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Splash of milk or plant-based alternative (for creaminess)
Read Also: Shrimp Burrito Bowls Recipe
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Veggie Mash
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In a large pot, add the sweet potatoes and carrots. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Cook for about 12–15 minutes until fork-tender.
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During the last 2 minutes, add the green peas to soften.
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Drain the vegetables and transfer to a large bowl.
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Add butter, a splash of milk, and a pinch of salt. Mash everything together until smooth and creamy. Set aside and keep warm.
Step 2: Cook the Garlic Butter Shrimp
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Pat the shrimp dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
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In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
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Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add the shrimp and sauté for 2–3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
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Squeeze in lemon juice and toss to coat.
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Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped parsley over the top.
Step 3: Assemble the Bowl
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Spoon a generous amount of the veggie mash into your bowl.
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Top with garlic butter shrimp.
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Optional: Drizzle a little extra garlic butter from the pan over the top.
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Serve hot and enjoy immediately!
Nutritional Benefits
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Shrimp provides lean protein, B12, and iodine.
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Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, fiber, and antioxidants.
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Carrots and peas add texture and color while delivering vitamin A, C, and K.
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Garlic enhances immunity and gives a robust, aromatic flavor.
This bowl is gluten-free, can be made dairy-free by using olive oil, and is naturally low in carbohydrates if you substitute sweet potatoes with cauliflower or parsnips.
Tips for Success
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Don’t overcook the shrimp—they become rubbery if left too long on the heat.
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Add a splash of lemon zest or chopped herbs to the mash for a refreshing twist.
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Want extra creaminess? Mix in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or cashew cream to the veggie mash.
12 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw them fully and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess water in the pan. -
Can I substitute sweet potatoes with regular potatoes?
Absolutely. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work well, but sweet potatoes offer more nutrients and a touch of natural sweetness. -
What veggies can I use for the mash?
Besides sweet potatoes, try cauliflower, carrots, peas, parsnips, or even butternut squash. -
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Very! Kids generally enjoy the natural sweetness of the veggie mash and mild shrimp flavor. Reduce or skip red pepper flakes for younger palates. -
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use olive oil instead of butter and a plant-based milk for the mash. -
How long can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave. -
Can I meal prep this?
Yes. Keep the mash and shrimp separate for best texture, and combine just before serving. -
Is it good for weight loss?
It’s high in protein and fiber, which can keep you full longer. Just keep portions controlled and limit added fats. -
Can I grill the shrimp instead?
Definitely. Grilling adds a smoky flavor and keeps the shrimp juicy with a nice char. -
What herbs go best with this dish?
Parsley, thyme, dill, or chives are excellent options. -
Can I add a sauce?
A drizzle of garlic aioli, tahini lemon dressing, or Greek yogurt-based sauce works beautifully. -
What should I serve with this bowl?
It’s a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad, roasted veggies, or even quinoa if you want to bulk it up.
Conclusion
The Garlic Butter Shrimp & Veggie Mash Bowl is a visual masterpiece and a flavor bomb all in one. It’s vibrant, healthy, and simple enough for any home cook to prepare with ease. The creamy veggie mash paired with succulent garlic butter shrimp creates a comforting, well-balanced dish that you’ll want to make again and again.
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