As I hovered over my skillet, the inviting aroma of sautéed garlic enveloped my kitchen, transporting me to my favorite coastal bistro. Today’s adventure brings us a delightful recipe for Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes—a comforting dish that seamlessly unites the richness of creamy shrimp with fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a mere 20 minutes of cooking, this recipe is perfect for those evenings when you want something special without the fuss. Whether you're trying to impress a loved one or simply treating yourself to a well-deserved meal, this dish promises to deliver joy on a plate. Ready to stir up some delicious memories? Let’s dive in!
Why is this dish a must-try?
Simplicity at its Finest: Just 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking means you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
Creamy, Flavorful Sauce: The combination of heavy cream, garlic, and shrimp creates a mouthwatering sauce that you’ll want to drizzle over everything.
Comfort Food Reimagined: The fluffy mashed potatoes serve as a perfect base, soaking up every bit of the rich sauce.
Versatile Dish: Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a romantic date night, this dish caters to all occasions.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: With its balanced flavors and stunning presentation, you’ll become the favorite chef among friends and family.
For more inspiring ideas, check out our creamy seafood recipes or consider pairing it with a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Ingredients
• Dive into the flavors of Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes with these essential ingredients.
For the Shrimp
- Butter – 2 tablespoons for sautéing, adding rich flavor to the shrimp.
- Shrimp – 4 cups, peeled and deveined for a juicy, succulent bite.
- Heavy Cream – 1 cup to create the luscious, creamy sauce.
- Chicken Broth – ½ cup for depth and added savory richness.
- Garlic – 1 teaspoon, minced to infuse your dish with fragrant goodness.
- Paprika – ½ teaspoon to enhance the dish with a warm touch.
- Parsley – 4 tablespoons, chopped for a fresh, vibrant finish.
For the Mashed Potatoes
- Potatoes – 2 cups, peeled and chopped to achieve a smooth mash.
- Milk – ½ cup to ensure a creamy consistency in the potatoes.
- Butter – 4 tablespoons (for mashed potatoes) for that rich, comforting taste.
- Salt – to taste, enhancing all the flavors beautifully.
- Pepper – to taste, adding a hint of warmth.
Get ready to enjoy each delicious layer of this meal that brings warmth to the table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Begin by placing the chopped potatoes in a large pot filled with salted water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook the potatoes for about 15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot, ready for mashing.
Step 2: Mash the Potatoes
Add 4 tablespoons of butter and ½ cup of milk to the drained potatoes. Use a masher to blend everything together until the potatoes are creamy and smooth, adjusting the consistency to your liking. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set the mash aside and keep warm, as it will complement the creamy garlic shrimp perfectly.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbling, add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute, stirring frequently, until it becomes fragrant and golden. This step fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, setting the stage for your creamy garlic shrimp.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Carefully add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Cook the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn vibrant pink and opaque. This quick cook brings out their juicy flavor, making them the star of your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of chicken broth, followed by ½ teaspoon of paprika. Stir everything together gently to combine. Let the mixture simmer for approximately 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. This creamy sauce is rich and dreamy, perfect for draping over your fluffy mashed potatoes.
Step 6: Finish with Freshness
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 4 tablespoons of chopped parsley. This final touch adds a burst of color and freshness to the dish. Give the creamy garlic shrimp a gentle stir to incorporate the parsley, enhancing both flavor and presentation as you prepare to serve.
Step 7: Serve Victorious
On a large plate, scoop a generous helping of your creamy mashed potatoes as a base. Top them with the creamy garlic shrimp, ensuring some of the luscious sauce drizzles down the sides. This beautiful stack of Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes promises to be a showstopper at your dinner table.
Expert Tips for Creamy Garlic Shrimp
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Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Watch closely while cooking shrimp; overcooking can make them tough. They should turn pink and opaque in just 3-4 minutes.
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Creamy Consistency: For an extra creamy sauce, let the heavy cream simmer longer until it thickens slightly. Just keep an eye on it to prevent curdling.
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Flavor Boost: Consider adding a splash of white wine while sautéing the garlic for an additional layer of flavor in your creamy garlic shrimp.
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Mashed Potato Texture: For the smoothest mash, use starchy potatoes like Russets and mash them while hot to achieve that luxurious texture.
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Fresh Herbs: Feel free to substitute parsley with chives or dill for a refreshing twist in your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes.
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Seasoning Balance: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to your preference. It’s the key to making this comfort dish truly shine.
What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes
The perfect side dishes can elevate your dinner from ordinary to extraordinary, creating a remarkable culinary experience.
- Garlic Bread: Sliced and toasted, its crispy texture and rich flavor are perfect for soaking up leftover sauce.
- Grilled Asparagus: Tender and vibrant, this adds a pop of color and earthy flavor, balancing the richness of the shrimp and potatoes.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing offer a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy shrimp.
- Roasted Broccoli: Nutty and caramelized, roasted broccoli provides a hearty bite while adding a touch of green to your plate.
- Lemon-Basil Quinoa: Light and zesty, this fluffy grain bowl harmonizes wonderfully with the garlicky flavors of your shrimp.
- White Wine: A chilled glass pairs perfectly, enhancing the flavors of the shrimp while offering a refreshing note.
- Chocolate Mousse: End your dinner on a sweet note with a rich and airy dessert that complements the meal's indulgence.
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes: Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to unleash your creativity in the kitchen with these delightful twists and swaps for a unique take on this comforting dish!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use almond milk for the mashed potatoes for a luscious, plant-based version.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a delightful heat that dances on your palate. Spice can really elevate the flavors, making each bite a thrilling experience!
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Vegetable Boost: Mix in sautéed spinach or kale to the shrimp for a nutritious pop of color and flavor. Fresh greens add brightness, contrasting beautifully with the rich sauce.
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Flavorful Broth: Use seafood stock instead of chicken broth to enhance the shrimp's flavor profile, adding a deeper ocean-inspired taste that’s sure to impress.
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Texture Play: For an extra crunch, sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the top just before serving. This delightful crunch adds an unexpected twist that enhances every mouthful.
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Herb Variations: Swap parsley for fresh basil or cilantro for an aromatic twist that brings a fresh, vibrant zing to the dish. Each herb brings a unique flavor that can transform your creamy garlic shrimp.
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Mashed Potato Variety: Swap traditional potatoes for sweet potatoes for a hint of sweetness that beautifully complements the savory shrimp. Plus, you'll enjoy a vibrant dash of orange on your plate!
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Nutty Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of tahini into the mashed potatoes for a creamy, nutty flavor. It's an exciting twist that can elevate your traditional comfort dish to gourmet status.
Don't hesitate to explore and personalize your meal. For more creative ideas to elevate your dinner plate, don’t miss our creamy seafood recipes or pair this delectable dish with a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Enjoy your culinary journey!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes are ideal for busy weeknights, allowing you to prep components in advance! You can prepare the mashed potatoes up to 24 hours ahead—just boil and mash them, then refrigerate in an airtight container. To maintain their creaminess, reheat on the stove with a splash of milk, stirring until smooth. For the shrimp, sauté and combine with the creamy sauce, then refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat gently in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, ensuring a fresh and delightful meal with minimal fuss. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results effortlessly!
Storage Tips for Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the shrimp and mashed potatoes separate to maintain texture, reheat gently.
- Freezer: Freeze shrimp in sauce for up to 2 months. However, mashed potatoes may not freeze perfectly; consider freezing them separately.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce's creaminess.
- Room Temperature: Do not leave out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety; always refrigerate promptly after serving.
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe shrimp?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for a moist, slightly glossy appearance. They should have a clean, ocean-like smell—if they smell overly fishy or have dark spots, they might not be fresh. Always opt for shrimp that is firm and has a translucent color!
How should I store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftovers of your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes in an airtight container. They can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the shrimp and mashed potatoes separate, as this will preserve their textures when reheating them later on.
Can I freeze this dish?
Certainly! You can freeze the shrimp in the creamy sauce for up to 2 months. To do this, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. However, I recommend freezing the mashed potatoes separately, as they may lose their creamy texture when thawed. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight, reheat gently, and add a splash of cream to help revive that velvety texture.
What if my shrimp are overcooked?
Oh no! If you've overcooked the shrimp, they may become tough and rubbery. To avoid this, remember that shrimp cook quickly—just 3 to 4 minutes until they are pink and opaque is all you need! If they do turn out a bit chewy, adding them back into the sauce on low heat for a few minutes might soften them slightly, but it's best to keep an eye on them while cooking.
Are there dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you or your guests have allergies, be mindful that this recipe contains shellfish and dairy. For a dairy-free version, you can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and substitute the butter with a dairy-free option. If someone has a shellfish allergy, consider swapping shrimp for chicken or tofu for a delicious alternative that still pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
How long can I keep leftovers at room temperature?
Very! To ensure food safety, avoid leaving your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Always refrigerate promptly after serving to ensure they remain delicious and safe to eat!
Indulge in Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes Tonight
Equipment
- Large pot
- large skillet
- Masher
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 2 tablespoons Butter for sautéing
- 4 cups Shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- ½ cup Chicken Broth
- 1 teaspoon Garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon Paprika
- 4 tablespoons Parsley chopped
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 2 cups Potatoes peeled and chopped
- ½ cup Milk
- 4 tablespoons Butter for mashed potatoes
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Begin by placing the chopped potatoes in a large pot filled with salted water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook the potatoes for about 15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot, ready for mashing.
- Add 4 tablespoons of butter and ½ cup of milk to the drained potatoes. Use a masher to blend everything together until the potatoes are creamy and smooth, adjusting the consistency to your liking. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set the mash aside and keep warm.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbling, add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute, stirring frequently, until it becomes fragrant and golden.
- Carefully add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Cook the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn vibrant pink and opaque.
- Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of chicken broth, followed by ½ teaspoon of paprika. Stir everything together gently to combine. Let the mixture simmer for approximately 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 4 tablespoons of chopped parsley.
- On a large plate, scoop a generous helping of your creamy mashed potatoes as a base. Top them with the creamy garlic shrimp, ensuring some of the luscious sauce drizzles down the sides.
