Easy Garlic Shrimp One-Pot Meal

Name: Easy Garlic Shrimp One-Pot Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Meals

I absolutely love whipping up this Easy Garlic Shrimp One-Pot Meal when I’m short on time but still want a delicious dish. The best part is that everything is cooked in one pot, making clean-up a breeze! The combination of garlic, shrimp, and spices creates a flavorful meal that feels special yet can be made in just 30 minutes. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe has quickly become one of my favorites. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Created by

Lina

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:50:27.947Z

When I first tried this Easy Garlic Shrimp One-Pot Meal, I was amazed at how quickly I could have an impressive dish ready for dinner. The method works beautifully because cooking everything in one pot allows the flavors to meld and the shrimp to become tender and juicy. I recommend using fresh shrimp for the best taste!

One of my favorite tips is to sauté the garlic just until fragrant—not too long. Overcooking can turn garlic bitter, diminishing the dish's overall flavor. Incorporating fresh herbs at the end also elevates the dish, giving it a vibrant finish that’s irresistible!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Succulent shrimp infused with rich garlic flavor
One-pot convenience for easy cooking and clean-up
Quick and straightforward, perfect for weeknight dinners

Ingredient Insights

The star of this dish is undeniably the shrimp. When selecting shrimp, opt for fresh or frozen shrimp that are preferably wild-caught for the best flavor. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them properly either in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water for quick defrosting. The shrimp should be pink and firm to the touch when cooked.

Bell peppers add a sweet crunch and vibrant color to the dish. You can choose any color you prefer—red, yellow, or green—each providing a slightly different flavor profile. Cherry tomatoes not only add a pop of color but also bring a juicy burst of sweetness that balances its garlic and spicy notes. I recommend using ripe tomatoes for the best taste.

Cooking Technique Tips

When sautéing garlic, it’s crucial to keep an eye on it; cook just until fragrant but avoid browning, as burnt garlic can introduce a bitter taste to your dish. This step usually takes about 30 seconds over medium heat. If needed, you can adjust the heat to low if you notice the garlic starting to brown too quickly.

If you're looking to save time during the week, pre-chop your bell peppers and tomatoes ahead of time. You can store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. This not only speeds up the cooking process but also allows you to dive straight into the meal preparation after a long day.

Ingredients

For the Easy Garlic Shrimp One-Pot Meal

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup vegetable broth
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to prep your ingredients beforehand to ensure a smooth cooking process!

Steps to Make Easy Garlic Shrimp One-Pot Meal

Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Cook Bell Pepper and Tomatoes

Stir in the diced bell pepper and cherry tomatoes, cooking for an additional 3 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Add Quinoa and Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add the rinsed quinoa, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes.

Add Shrimp

After 15 minutes, add the shrimp to the pot, cover, and cook for another 5 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your meal!

This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine for a complete dining experience.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own!

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Easy Garlic Shrimp One-Pot Meal can be prepared in advance, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Once cooked, allow the dish to cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

For longer storage, consider freezing leftovers. After cooking, let it cool and portion it into freezer-safe containers. This dish can last up to two months in the freezer. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture of the shrimp.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is fantastic on its own, but if you want to elevate your meal, consider serving it over a bed of sautéed greens or alongside a simple green salad. A drizzle of lemon juice or a sprinkle of feta cheese just before serving can add an enticing finish that brightens all the flavors.

Feel free to customize this dish further by adding different vegetables like spinach or diced zucchini. They can be tossed in just before adding the shrimp, giving them a chance to wilt while still leaving a bit of crunch. This not only diversifies the dish but also enhances its nutritional profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them beforehand for even cooking.

→ What can I substitute for quinoa?

You can use rice or another grain of your choice; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or include sliced jalapeños in the recipe.

→ Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the vegetables and shrimp in advance. Just assemble and cook when you're ready to eat.