Name: Garlic Butter Shrimp & Veggie Mash Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tbsp butter (plus more for mashed potatoes); 3 garlic cloves, minced; 4 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped; ¼ cup cream or milk (for mashed potatoes); Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup green peas (steamed or blanched); Lemon wedges, for serving

Garlic Butter Shrimp & Veggie Mash Bowl is the kind of dish that feels like home and indulgence all in one. Juicy shrimp are seared in garlic butter until perfectly golden, then served over a creamy mash of potatoes with a side of tender green peas. It’s hearty, simple, and ready to be your next weeknight favorite.

Whether you’re looking for something fast and flavorful or hoping to impress someone with minimal effort, this dish delivers. The butter and garlic create a savory base that pairs beautifully with the mild sweetness of the shrimp and the earthiness of mashed potatoes. Add a wedge of lemon for brightness, and you have a perfectly balanced bowl.

What Makes Garlic Butter Shrimp & Veggie Mash Bowl So Satisfying?

It’s all about contrast and comfort. The shrimp bring a juicy pop and slight crisp, thanks to high-heat searing. The mash is rich, fluffy, and buttery, forming a cozy bed to soak up all the garlicky goodness. And those peas? They offer a fresh, bright counterpoint that completes the bite.

Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Shrimp & Veggie Mash Bowl

Shrimp: Choose large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined. Their firm texture holds up well to a quick sear.
Butter: A generous amount ensures a rich flavor and helps create that golden-browned edge on the shrimp.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the butter, making it irresistibly aromatic.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes made with butter and a splash of cream are the perfect neutral base.
Green Peas: Lightly steamed or blanched, peas provide color and sweetness.
Lemon: Just a squeeze at the end lifts everything up.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning each layer to perfection.

How To Make the Garlic Butter Shrimp & Veggie Mash Bowl

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Peel and chop your potatoes, then boil in salted water until fork-tender. Drain and mash with butter, warm cream, and a touch of salt and pepper until smooth and fluffy. Set aside and keep warm.

Step 2: Cook the Green Peas

While the potatoes are boiling, steam or blanch the green peas until just tender. They should stay vibrant and slightly firm. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and let it melt. Toss in the minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp in a single layer. Sear for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and slightly crisped at the edges.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

Spoon a generous helping of mashed potatoes into your bowl. Add a portion of shrimp right on top, drizzle over some of that garlic butter from the pan, and finish with the green peas on the side. Serve with a wedge of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh ground pepper.

Serving and Storing Garlic Butter Shrimp & Veggie Mash Bowl

This bowl is best served hot and fresh, especially to enjoy the crispiness of the shrimp and the creaminess of the mash. Pair it with a light white wine or sparkling water with lemon.

If you have leftovers, store the mashed potatoes and peas in one container and the shrimp separately to preserve their texture. Reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet to keep them from turning rubbery. Consume within 2 days for best quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep shrimp from overcooking?

Shrimp cook very quickly. The key is to watch for them to turn pink and opaque—usually 1–2 minutes per side. Remove them from the heat as soon as they curl slightly.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

What’s the best type of potatoes for mashing?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes yield the creamiest mash. They absorb butter and cream well.

Can I swap out the green peas?

Of course! Try steamed broccoli, asparagus tips, or even sautéed spinach.

Is this meal good for meal prep?

Somewhat. While mashed potatoes and peas hold well, shrimp is best cooked fresh. You can prep the mash and peas in advance, then cook the shrimp quickly before serving.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use a vegan butter alternative and mash your potatoes with olive oil and unsweetened plant milk.

Want More Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Garlic Butter Shrimp & Veggie Mash Bowl, you’ll probably enjoy these other comforting favorites:

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta for a cozy, carb-loaded bite with bold flavor.
Baked Lemon Herb Salmon when you’re craving something fresh and zesty.
One-Pot Chicken and Orzo for a simple yet hearty meal.
Tuscan White Bean Skillet if you’re leaning toward something plant-forward.
Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs for sweet heat in every bite.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use fresh or frozen shrimp? Did you add extra herbs or maybe swap the peas for asparagus?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.