Grilled Shrimp Bowl

There’s something about grilled shrimp that instantly feels like summer—especially when it’s paired with crisp asparagus and a rich, garlicky cream sauce.

This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Asparagus and Creamy Garlic Sauce is one of my favorite warm-weather meals: light but satisfying, elegant yet super simple.

Served over rice or quinoa, this bowl is perfect for busy weeknights, backyard dinners, or meal prep lunches. It’s healthy, flavorful, and ready in about 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy – ready in under 30 minutes

Creamy garlic sauce adds rich, luxurious flavor

High-protein and low-carb friendly

Customizable with rice, quinoa, or greens

Great for dinner, meal prep, or entertaining

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Shrimp – peeled, deveined, and ready for the grill

Asparagus – crisp and lightly charred

Olive oil & spices – simple seasoning with garlic, paprika, and lemon

Heavy cream – for the base of the sauce

Fresh garlic – minced and sautéed for bold flavor

Parmesan cheese – adds saltiness and depth

Cooked rice or quinoa – to build the bowls

Pro Tips Before You Start

Use jumbo shrimp for juicy results and easier grilling

Trim the tough ends off the asparagus before cooking

Don’t overcook the shrimp—they cook quickly in just 2–3 minutes per side

Let the cream sauce simmer gently—not boil—to avoid separation

Serve with fresh lemon wedges for extra brightness

How to Make Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Asparagus & Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Set aside to marinate while preparing other ingredients.

Step 2: Prep the Asparagus

Trim the ends off the asparagus and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Grill the Shrimp and Asparagus

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until opaque and lightly charred.

Grill asparagus for 4–5 minutes until tender and slightly blackened.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In a small skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Stir in grated parmesan and cook until the sauce thickens.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Spoon rice or quinoa into bowls. Top with grilled asparagus and shrimp.

Drizzle generously with creamy garlic sauce and garnish with chopped parsley or lemon zest.

What to Serve It With

Crusty garlic bread or naan

A crisp green salad with vinaigrette

Grilled corn or roasted sweet potatoes

A glass of chilled white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)

Fresh lemon wedges and chili flakes on the side

Variations / Substitutions

Use scallops or chicken instead of shrimp

Swap asparagus for broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers

Add red chili flakes or cayenne to the sauce for heat

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce

Make it dairy-free with coconut cream and nutritional yeast

Storage & Leftovers

Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days

Reheat shrimp and asparagus in a skillet for best texture

Warm the sauce gently on the stovetop—add a splash of cream if it thickens

Assemble bowls just before eating for freshest results

Not recommended for freezing due to cream and shrimp

FAQs

Can I cook the shrimp on a skillet instead of a grill?
Yes! A cast-iron or non-stick skillet works great.

Sear over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side.

What kind of rice works best?
White rice, jasmine rice, or quinoa are great options.

You can also use brown rice for extra fiber.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best fresh. If making ahead, reheat gently and whisk in extra cream if it thickens too much.

What size shrimp should I use?
Jumbo or large shrimp (16/20 count) are best for grilling.

Smaller shrimp may overcook quickly.

Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Try adding grilled zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or baby spinach for a veggie boost.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your parmesan and rice are gluten-free certified.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Asparagus and Creamy Garlic Sauce is one of those recipes that feels both luxurious and effortless.

With smoky grilled shrimp, tender asparagus, and a rich homemade sauce, every bite is packed with flavor.

Whether you’re serving it for a summer dinner party or meal prepping for the week, it’s a fresh, flavorful meal that never gets old.