Name: Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes: Comfort Food Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Russet Potatoes (Can substitute with Yukon Gold for creaminess.); 1/2 cup Heavy Cream (Can substitute with half-and-half.); 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter; To taste Salt; To taste Pepper; 1 pound Large Shrimp (Fresh or thawed.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil; 4 cloves Minced Garlic (Sauté gently to avoid bitterness.); 1 cup Chicken Broth (Can substitute with vegetable broth.); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Can use another melting cheese.); 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (Enhances flavor.); 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (Chopped, for garnish.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sizzling garlic filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. That’s when I knew I was about to whip up something truly special: Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes. This dish transforms a simple evening into a comforting culinary delight, combining perfectly tender shrimp in a luscious garlic sauce with creamy, buttery mashed potatoes that practically melt in your mouth. One of the beautiful things about this recipe is its quick prep time, making it an ideal choice for any weeknight dinner—yet it also holds its own as an impressive dish for entertaining guests. Whether you’re treating yourself or feeding a crowd, this meal brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. Curious to dive into this irresistible recipe? Let’s get started!

Why Is This Recipe So Irresistible?

Comforting Experience: The combination of creamy mashed potatoes and tender garlic-infused shrimp creates a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Quick Preparation: In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up this satisfying meal, perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.

Versatile Delight: Feel free to customize! Add vegetables or swap proteins to fit your taste. Check out my Cajun Pasta Shrimp for another amazing twist on shrimp.

Impressive Presentation: Serve this dish to guests, and watch their eyes light up as they savor each bite of this delightful creation.

Flavor Explosion: The rich garlic sauce, coupled with a sprinkle of lemon juice, elevates every mouthful, making it hard to resist going back for seconds.

You won’t just love this recipe; you’ll want to share it with everyone!

Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes Ingredients

• To create this culinary delight, here’s what you’ll need:

For the Mashed Potatoes

Russet Potatoes – They create a fluffy texture perfect for mashing; Yukon Gold can be used for an extra creamy mash.
Heavy Cream – Adds a rich, velvety mouthfeel to both the mash and sauce; substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
Unsalted Butter – Ensures smooth and buttery mashed potatoes; remember to taste for seasoning.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for flavor balance; use generously to enhance the taste.

For the Shrimp and Sauce

Large Shrimp – The star protein of the dish; whether fresh or thawed, both work wonderfully!
Olive Oil – Ideal for searing the shrimp, providing flavor without distraction.
Minced Garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness; sauté it gently to avoid bitterness.
Chicken Broth – Adds depth to the sauce; substitute with vegetable broth to make it vegetarian-friendly.
Parmesan Cheese – Thickens the sauce and adds a savory kick; feel free to use another melting hard cheese if desired.
Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish with a zesty note; a little goes a long way in enhancing flavor.
Fresh Parsley – A garnish that brings freshness and color to your plate.

You’re all set to embark on your culinary adventure with this Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes recipe! Happy cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
Start by peeling and cubing the Russet potatoes. Place them in a large pot, cover with salted water, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add heavy cream and unsalted butter, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping them warm on low heat as you prepare the shrimp.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, toss in the large shrimp seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside on a plate, ensuring they remain warm and succulent for the next steps in the garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes dish.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet used for shrimp, lower the heat to medium and add minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant, but do not let it brown. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom, which adds depth of flavor. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce is smooth and bubbling, then add a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 4: Combine and Serve
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, coating them in the creamy garlic sauce while heating through for another 1-2 minutes. On serving plates, spoon generous portions of the buttery mashed potatoes and top them with the luscious shrimp and sauce mixture. Garnish each plate with freshly chopped parsley and an optional sprinkle of extra Parmesan for a delightful finishing touch to your garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes.

Expert Tips for Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

Perfect Potato Texture: Ensure potatoes are cooked until just fork-tender to achieve fluffy and creamy mashed potatoes that complement the shrimp beautifully.
Gentle Garlic Sauté: Don’t rush the garlic sautéing process. Cook it gently to avoid bitterness, allowing its aromatic flavors to develop without burning.
Heat Control: When adding cream to the sauce, lower the heat to prevent separation and achieve a smooth, velvety finish in your dish.
Season Generously: Taste as you go! Proper seasoning with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process will enhance the flavors and bring out the best in your garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes.
Fresh Garnish: Always remember to use fresh parsley as a garnish; it not only adds color but also a delightful freshness that brightens the dish.

How to Store and Freeze Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Keep shrimp and mashed potatoes separate to maintain texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the creamy garlic shrimp and mashed potatoes in separate containers for up to 2 months. Make sure to label them for easy identification.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore creaminess in the garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes.
Quality Assurance: For best taste, consume within the recommended timeframe. The freshness of flavors is best enjoyed when prepared fresh!

Make Ahead Options

These Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the mashed potatoes up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them in an airtight container. To keep the potatoes creamy, add an extra splash of heavy cream before reheating. The shrimp can also be cooked up to 3 days ahead; just store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to finish the dish. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the mashed potatoes on the stove over low heat, warm the shrimp in the sauce, and combine everything for a delightful meal. This way, busy weeknight dinners become a breeze, bringing comfort to your table with minimal effort!

Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes Variations

Feel free to explore different twists and swaps to make this dish your own!

Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp with chicken or scallops for a delicious change in flavor. Both options will work beautifully with the creamy garlic sauce and keep the dish satisfying.
Veggie Boost: Add in spinach or peas for a pop of color and nutrients. Sauté them briefly before adding the shrimp to ensure they maintain their vibrant flavor and texture.
Dairy-Free Option: Use vegan cream instead of heavy cream for a delightful dairy-free version. This ensures everyone can enjoy this dish without compromising on richness.
Cheese Alternative: Swap Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or any other hard cheese that melts beautifully. This option adds a cheesy depth while keeping it vegan-friendly.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick. This spicy twist can elevate the dish, making it a fantastic choice for heat lovers.
Zesty Refresh: Incorporate lime juice instead of lemon for a different citrusy flair. It brightens the dish in a unique way, perfect for those warmer evenings.
Herb Infusion: Swap fresh parsley for basil or cilantro to change the herbaceous notes in the dish. Each herb brings its own character, transforming the flavor profile beautifully.

For a bit more inspiration, you’ll love my Garlic Parmesan Chicken or a tangy Spicy Shrimp Tacos as alternates that keep dinner exciting!

What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this delectable dish with sides that will tantalize your palate and complete your meal.

Grilled Asparagus: This light and smoky vegetable side adds a crunchy texture, balancing the creaminess of the mashed potatoes beautifully. The bright green color also brings visual appeal to your plate.
Fresh Garden Salad: Combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a refreshing crunch. Drizzle with a tangy vinaigrette to cleanse the palate between bites.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy flavor and crispy, caramelized edges provide a delicious contrast to the rich garlic shrimp. Toss with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Garlic Bread: For those who can’t get enough garlic, serve crusty garlic bread alongside. It’s perfect for soaking up the luscious creamy sauce and elevating the dish to a whole new level of indulgence.
Zesty Lemonade: A refreshing beverage that cuts through the richness of the dish while enhancing its citrus notes. Serve it chilled to keep the meal light and invigorating.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, creamy chocolate mousse pairs wonderfully with the savory shrimp dish. Its light yet rich texture provides a delightful finish to your dining experience.

These sides not only complement the flavors of Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes but also create a memorable meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right potatoes for mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! For the best mashed potatoes, I recommend using Russet potatoes due to their fluffy texture that mashes perfectly. If you’re looking for a creamier finish, Yukon Gold potatoes are a fantastic alternative. Just make sure they are firm, with no dark spots or soft areas to ensure optimal flavor and texture.

What’s the best way to store leftover garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes?
Very! To preserve your delicious dish, store leftover garlic shrimp and mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers. They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days. This separation helps maintain the textures, preventing the mashed potatoes from becoming watery.

Can I freeze garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes?
Yes! To freeze, first let the garlic shrimp and mashed potatoes cool completely. Place them in separate airtight containers, and you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Label them clearly—this keeps things easy when you’re ready to reheat!

How should I reheat frozen garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes?
Certainly! To reheat, transfer the frozen garlic shrimp and mashed potatoes to the fridge and let them thaw overnight. Then, on the stovetop, warm each separately over low heat, adding a splash of cream to the shrimp to restore its smooth consistency. Stir gently until heated through, and enjoy again!

Can my pets enjoy any part of this dish?
Not really! While cooked shrimp can be safe for pets in moderation, garlic is toxic to dogs and cats, so it’s best to keep any part of this dish away from them. Always check with your vet if you’re unsure about what’s safe for your furry friends.

What if I have a dairy allergy?
Absolutely! You can make this dish dairy-free by substituting heavy cream with a plant-based cream or coconut milk. Use dairy-free butter for the mashed potatoes, and opt for a nutritional yeast sprinkle instead of Parmesan cheese to still enjoy that cheesy flavor without any dairy. Enjoy your cooking adventure!