Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes – Rich, Buttery & Easy Dinner

by

Introduction

When it comes to indulgent seafood dinners, Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes steals the spotlight. Imagine plump, juicy shrimp coated in a rich garlic cream sauce, resting on a bed of silky mashed potatoes that melt in your mouth. This dish isn’t just dinner—it’s an experience, combining buttery textures, vibrant garlic aroma, and a hint of tangy lemon. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, this recipe promises a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Whether you’re craving comfort food or a gourmet touch at home, Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes delivers a luxurious dinner with minimal effort. Let’s dive into why this recipe should be your next kitchen adventure.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Ultimate comfort: Creamy textures meet buttery mashed potatoes.

  • Quick & easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.

  • Restaurant-quality flavor: Garlic, lemon, and Parmesan elevate the shrimp.

  • Versatile: Serve for family dinners or special occasions.

  • Health-conscious options: Can use low-fat cream or milk substitutes.

  • Budget-friendly seafood: Shrimp is an affordable protein when paired with pantry staples.

  • Crowd-pleaser: Even picky eaters love this rich, savory dish.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 6 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes:

  • 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed

  • 1/4 cup milk

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Pro Tip: Use Yukon Gold potatoes for extra creamy texture. Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

  1. Place cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt.

  2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until fork-tender (15–20 minutes).

  3. Drain and return potatoes to the pot. Add milk and butter, mashing until smooth.

  4. Season with salt and black pepper. Keep warm.

Science Tip: Boiling potatoes in cold water ensures even cooking and prevents the exterior from overcooking.

2. Cook the Shrimp

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

  2. Add shrimp and cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.

Sensory Indicator: Properly cooked shrimp are firm but not rubbery, with an opaque color.

3. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

  1. Reduce heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the skillet.

  2. Add minced garlic and sauté 1 minute until fragrant.

  3. Pour in heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

  4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

  5. Return shrimp to the skillet, coating in sauce. Cook 2 more minutes.

Chef’s Secret: Simmer sauce gently to prevent separation and maintain velvety texture.

4. Serve

  1. Plate a generous scoop of mashed potatoes.

  2. Top with creamy garlic shrimp.

  3. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Presentation Tip: Serve in shallow bowls to highlight the sauce and allow easy spooning of shrimp and potatoes together.

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

Pro Tips & PAA Questions

How to Make Shrimp Extra Tender?

  • Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp.

  • Avoid overcooking; remove from heat immediately when opaque.

Can I Substitute Mashed Potatoes?

  • Yes! Try cauliflower mash for a low-carb option.

  • Sweet potato mash adds a sweet-savory twist.

How to Make Sauce Thicker?

  • Simmer a few extra minutes or whisk in 1 teaspoon cornstarch diluted in water.

Flavor Enhancements:

  • Add red pepper flakes for heat.

  • Use smoked paprika for depth.

Best Ways to Serve

  • Pair with garlic bread for a full seafood experience.

  • Serve with a crisp green salad to balance richness.

  • Crosslink: Try Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta for another decadent shrimp dish.

Nutrition (Per Serving, Approx. 2 servings)

  • Calories: 520

  • Protein: 32g

  • Fat: 32g

  • Carbohydrates: 28g

  • Fiber: 3g

  • Sodium: 540mg

Nutrition Tip: Use low-fat cream or unsweetened plant milk to reduce fat content while keeping creaminess.

Storage & Leftovers

  • Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Reheat gently in skillet or microwave; avoid high heat to prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery.

  • Mashed potatoes can be rewhipped with milk to restore texture.

Recipe Variations

  • Low-Carb Version: Serve shrimp over cauliflower mash.

  • Spicy Twist: Add cayenne or chili flakes to the cream sauce.

  • Herbal Boost: Mix in fresh basil or thyme for aromatic flavor.

  • Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle extra Parmesan or Gruyère on top before serving.

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

How long does this dish stay fresh?
Store in fridge for 2–3 days. Avoid freezing cooked shrimp in cream sauce.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely. Reduce garlic or omit lemon for milder flavors.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and butter with olive oil or vegan butter.

Conclusion

Indulge in the rich, buttery flavor of Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes and transform any dinner into a memorable event. This recipe combines luxury with simplicity, delivering comfort and gourmet flair in one plate. Share your creations on social media and tag us—your dinner table just got an upgrade!

Leave a Comment