There’s something truly comforting about creamy garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes—a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Growing up in the English countryside, I often found myself drawn to hearty, simple meals that brought the family together, and this recipe fits that tradition beautifully. It’s rich, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to pull off, even on busy weeknights. For me, it’s a perfect way to turn shrimp into a soul-soothing meal that my kids actually love—despite their ongoing ketchup obsession! If you’re craving something that feels both a little indulgent and totally doable, this one’s for you.
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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes
This dish strikes a lovely balance between indulgence and ease, which is exactly why it’s become a staple in my kitchen. The silky garlic cream sauce wraps around tender shrimp, while the mashed potatoes soak up every bit of that lusciousness. It’s a wonderful way to elevate everyday ingredients without fuss. I remember the first time I made this for my family after a long day in the kitchen; watching my kids scoop up every last bite reminded me that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated to be special. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to introduce shrimp to little ones who might otherwise turn their noses up at seafood.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients—fresh shrimp and creamy potatoes make all the difference. I always recommend buying wild-caught shrimp if possible, for that fresh ocean flavor that brightens up the rich sauce. When it comes to potatoes, Yukon Golds are my go-to because they mash beautifully and have a buttery texture without needing too much cream. Over the years, I’ve learned that using good-quality garlic and fresh herbs really lifts the dish beyond ordinary weeknight fare.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or more, for creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for mashed potatoes)
Substitutions: If you prefer, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter sauce, and use Greek yogurt stirred in at the end for a tangy twist. Red potatoes can substitute Yukon Golds, though the texture will be a bit different.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
Irresistible Creamy Garlic Shrimp Served Over Fluffy Mashed Potatoes
Learn how to make delicious Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients—fresh shrimp and creamy potatoes make all the difference. I always recommend buying wild-caught shrimp if possible, for that fresh ocean flavor that brightens up the rich sauce. When it comes to potatoes, Yukon Golds are my go-to because they mash beautifully and have a buttery texture without needing too much cream. Over the years, I’ve learned that using good-quality garlic and fresh herbs really lifts the dish beyond ordinary weeknight fare.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or more, for creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for mashed potatoes)
Substitutions: If you prefer, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter sauce, and use Greek yogurt stirred in at the end for a tangy twist. Red potatoes can substitute Yukon Golds, though the texture will be a bit different.
Instructions
- Start by placing the peeled and cubed potatoes into a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- While the potatoes cook, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until pink, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid rubberiness.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and lemon zest. Let the sauce thicken slightly, about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Meanwhile, mash the drained potatoes with milk and 2 tablespoons of butter until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir the chopped parsley into the shrimp and sauce, then remove from heat.
- Serve the creamy garlic shrimp spooned generously over the mashed potatoes. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes
- Start by placing the peeled and cubed potatoes into a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- While the potatoes cook, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until pink, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid rubberiness.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and lemon zest. Let the sauce thicken slightly, about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Meanwhile, mash the drained potatoes with milk and 2 tablespoons of butter until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir the chopped parsley into the shrimp and sauce, then remove from heat.
- Serve the creamy garlic shrimp spooned generously over the mashed potatoes. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
Tips for Making the Best Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes
Getting this dish just right is about timing and quality ingredients, something I learned during those intense kitchen nights in the States. The shrimp must be cooked perfectly—overcooked shrimp become rubbery, which is a common pitfall. The sauce should be velvety, not watery or grainy, so patience is key when simmering and adding cheese. Learn more: Sizzle and Savor: Irresistible Garlic Mushroom Cauliflower Skillet
- Choose fresh or properly thawed shrimp; dry shrimp won’t absorb the sauce well.
- Don’t rush cooking the garlic—it should be fragrant but not brown to avoid bitterness.
- Simmer the cream gently to allow it to thicken without curdling.
- Use a potato masher or ricer for the fluffiest mashed potatoes; avoid overmixing which can make them gluey.
- Feel free to add a splash of white wine to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
With these tips, you’ll create a restaurant-quality dish every time. Learn more: related recipe
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This dish is incredibly versatile and works beautifully for various occasions, from cozy family dinners to casual entertaining. I often serve it when my kids need a bit of extra comfort food magic after a busy day at school, and it never fails to bring smiles all around.
- Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing sparkling water with a twist of lemon
- Serve alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness
- Add steamed asparagus or green beans for a pop of color and texture
- For a heartier meal, include crusty garlic bread to soak up the sauce
Whether it’s a special weekend supper or a midweek pick-me-up, creamy garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes makes the dinner hour feel just a bit more like a celebration.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage ensures you can enjoy leftovers just as much as the fresh dish. I often make a double batch so I can grab a comforting meal on a busy day without starting from scratch.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to the shrimp sauce to restore its creamy texture
- Reheat gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent sauce separation
- Mashed potatoes reheat best when covered to retain moisture—add a pat of butter or a splash of milk if needed
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes?
The main ingredients for Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes?
The total time to make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes?
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Cooking creamy garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes has become one of my favourite ways to bring a bit of warmth and joy to the table. This recipe blends simple, fresh ingredients with a touch of indulgence, making it accessible for cooks of all levels. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you—feel free to share your thoughts or tweaks. Here’s to many happy dinners and even happier memories!
