A wholesome and flavorful plate featuring Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Veggies & Creamy Mashed Potatoes is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests. This dish combines juicy shrimp sautéed in rich garlic butter, vibrant bell peppers, and tender broccoli, all served alongside creamy mashed potatoes. The balance of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice, guaranteed to delight your taste buds.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Mashed Potatoes:
- For the Garlic Butter Shrimp:
- For the Vegetables:
- How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Veggies & Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Step 1: Make the Mashed Potatoes
- Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
- Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- Step 4: Assemble the Plate
- How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Veggies & Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Plate Presentation
- Garnishing Ideas
- Accompaniments
- How to Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Veggies & Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Veggies & Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Veggies & Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Reheating Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Veggies & Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen shrimp for Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Veggies & Creamy Mashed Potatoes?
- What vegetables pair well with Garlic Butter Shrimp?
- How do I make my mashed potatoes creamier?
- Can I customize the spices in Garlic Butter Shrimp?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of garlic butter and fresh vegetables creates a deliciously satisfying meal.
- Versatile Dish: You can easily swap out the shrimp for chicken or turkey to suit your preferences.
- Healthy Options: Packed with veggies and lean protein, this meal is both nutritious and fulfilling.
- Great Presentation: The colorful ingredients come together beautifully on the plate, impressing everyone at the table.
Tools and Preparation
To make this dish successfully, having the right tools is essential. Below are some key pieces of equipment that will help you along the way.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Potato masher
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking of shrimp and vegetables, providing great flavor and texture.
- Potato masher: This tool is crucial for achieving perfectly creamy mashed potatoes without lumps.
- Knife: A sharp knife will make chopping vegetables quick and easy, saving you time in the kitchen.

Ingredients
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled & cubed (or leave skin on for rustic texture)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup milk (more if needed)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Garlic Butter Shrimp:
- 10-12 medium shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Vegetables:
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Pinch of salt & pepper
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Veggies & Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Step 1: Make the Mashed Potatoes
- Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 12-15 minutes).
- Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until creamy.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add broccoli florets and diced peppers; season with salt and pepper.
- Sauté for 4-5 minutes until tender but still vibrant.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- In a separate skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add shrimp, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly golden.
Step 4: Assemble the Plate
- Spoon mashed potatoes onto one side of each plate.
- Arrange shrimp and sautéed vegetables on the other side.
- Garnish with black pepper if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: ~480 kcal per serving
Servings: 2
Enjoy this delightful dish that brings together flavors you’ll love!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Veggies & Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Serving Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Veggies & Creamy Mashed Potatoes is a delightful experience that balances flavors and textures. Here are some creative suggestions to elevate your plating and enjoyment of this dish.
Plate Presentation
- Arrange the shrimp in a circular pattern around the mashed potatoes for an elegant look.
- Use a ring mold to shape the mashed potatoes, adding visual interest on the plate.
Garnishing Ideas
- Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and flavor.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice over the shrimp for a refreshing zest.
Accompaniments
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up any buttery sauce left on the plate.
- Offer a light salad on the side, such as mixed greens dressed with vinaigrette to complement the meal.
How to Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Veggies & Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Perfecting this recipe involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is a success.
- Use fresh shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp should be thawed properly for best texture and flavor.
- Don’t overcook: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink; overcooking can make them tough.
- Season well: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for better flavor.
- Choose vibrant veggies: Select colorful bell peppers for added nutrition and visual appeal in your sautéed veggies.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Veggies & Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Pairing side dishes with Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Veggies & Creamy Mashed Potatoes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Bread: A warm, crispy option perfect for soaking up garlic butter sauce.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a crunchy texture and nutritional boost.
- Caesar Salad: A classic salad that offers creamy dressing and crisp Romaine lettuce; consider using a plant-based dressing if desired.
- Roasted Zucchini: Toss zucchini slices in olive oil and herbs before roasting for added flavor.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty grain that complements seafood beautifully while providing extra protein.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing slaw made with cabbage and carrots dressed in a tangy vinaigrette can add crunch and balance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your cooking experience. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
Ignoring Potato Type: Using waxy potatoes instead of starchy ones can lead to a gummy texture in mashed potatoes. Opt for Russet or Yukon Gold for creaminess.
Overcooking Shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long makes them tough and rubbery. Aim for just 2-3 minutes per side until they’re pink and slightly golden.
Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season each component can result in bland flavors. Season the shrimp, vegetables, and mashed potatoes separately for a balanced dish.
Not Prepping Ingredients First: Trying to cook without prepping can lead to chaos in the kitchen. Chop and measure all ingredients before starting for a smoother process.
Using Cold Milk: Adding cold milk directly into mashed potatoes can cool them down. Warm your milk slightly before mixing it in for smoother results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3 days for the best flavor and quality.
Freezing Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Veggies & Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Freeze in individual portions for easy reheating.
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Best if used within 1-2 months.
Reheating Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Veggies & Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely. Heat on high in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until heated through.
Stovetop: Reheat over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about preparing Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Veggies & Creamy Mashed Potatoes.
Can I use frozen shrimp for Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Veggies & Creamy Mashed Potatoes?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well! Just ensure they are thawed before cooking to achieve even cooking.
What vegetables pair well with Garlic Butter Shrimp?
Broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas all complement the flavors of garlic butter shrimp nicely. Feel free to mix it up!
How do I make my mashed potatoes creamier?
Add more milk gradually while mashing until you reach your desired consistency. You can also use sour cream or cream cheese for extra richness.
Can I customize the spices in Garlic Butter Shrimp?
Absolutely! Experiment with different spices like cumin or chili powder for added flavor. Adjust according to your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Veggies & Creamy Mashed Potatoes recipe is not only delicious but also versatile! You can easily customize the veggies or adjust the seasonings to suit your palate. Give it a try and enjoy this delightful meal any night of the week!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Veggies & Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
Description
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sautéed Veggies & Creamy Mashed Potatoes is a dish that brings flavor and comfort to your dining table. This quick and easy recipe features succulent shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, complemented by vibrant sautéed vegetables and velvety mashed potatoes. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this meal is not only delicious but also visually appealing. The balance of protein and colorful veggies makes it a wholesome choice that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 3 medium potatoes
- 10–12 medium shrimp
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the mashed potatoes: Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 12-15 minutes). Drain, then mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until creamy.
- Cook the vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté broccoli florets and diced peppers seasoned with salt and pepper for 4-5 minutes until tender yet vibrant.
- Cook the shrimp: In another skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add shrimp, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink.
- Assemble the plate: Serve mashed potatoes on one side of each plate, arranging shrimp and sautéed vegetables on the other side.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 170mg





