Name: Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes: A Cozy Gourmet Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Yukon Gold Potatoes (These provide a creamy texture.); 4 tablespoons Butter (Essential for richness.); 1/2 cup Heavy Cream (Can be substituted with coconut cream.); to taste Salt (Key for seasoning.); to taste Pepper (Key for seasoning.); 1 pound Shrimp (Peeled and deveined for convenience.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (For sautéing shrimp.); 4 cloves Garlic (Fresh minced.); 1 teaspoon Paprika (Adjust to your taste.); 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (Optional.); 1/2 cup Heavy Cream (Can be substituted with plant-based alternatives.); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Adds a savory note.)

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In a bustling kitchen filled with mouthwatering aromas, I stumbled upon a moment of perfect inspiration: creamy garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes. This elegant comfort food dish is like a warm hug for the soul, merging succulent shrimp with a silky Parmesan cream sauce that dances on your taste buds. Not only is this recipe easy to whip up in under an hour, making it ideal for any weeknight dinner, but it’s also a gourmet experience that can elevate your special occasions. With the option to swap out shrimp for a plant-based protein, this dish caters to all, ensuring everyone can revel in its rich flavors. Ready to dive into this culinary delight? Let’s get started and transform your dinner table with a splash of elegance!

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Why is This Dish a Must-Try?

Indulgent Comfort: The fusion of creamy mashed potatoes with rich garlic sauce creates a dish that feels like a warm embrace.

Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and can easily impress guests during special occasions.

Accessible Elegance: You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to master this elegant recipe, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels.

Versatile Options: Whether you prefer shrimp or want to swap in plant-based proteins, this dish adapts beautifully to your dietary needs.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The harmonious blend of Parmesan, garlic, and paprika-laden shrimp is sure to impress anyone at your dinner table. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with crisp salads or steamed veggies, like those in our Garlic Butter Chicken for a complete meal!

Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes Ingredients

For the Mashed Potatoes
• Yukon Gold Potatoes – These provide a creamy texture; they mash beautifully for a silky finish.
• Butter – Essential for richness; helps create a luxurious mouthfeel in your potatoes.
• Heavy Cream – Adds richness; can be substituted with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
• Salt and Pepper – Key for seasoning; enhance the flavors of the potatoes.

For the Garlic Shrimp
• Shrimp – Use peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience; they absorb the sauce flavors beautifully.
• Olive Oil – Great for sautéing shrimp; adds healthy fats and flavor.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic enhances the overall depth of flavor in both the shrimp and cream sauce.
• Paprika – Gives a lovely color and mild spice to the shrimp; feel free to adjust to your taste.
• Dijon Mustard (optional) – Adds a touch of complexity to the sauce, making it gourmet!

For the Cream Sauce
• Heavy Cream – The star of the sauce, ensuring a creamy, luxurious texture; can be swapped for plant-based alternatives for a vegan option.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds a savory, cheesy note; omit for a dairy-free dish and substitute with nutritional yeast.

Enjoy making this Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes as you gather loved ones around your dinner table!

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

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Begin by peeling and cubing your Yukon Gold potatoes into even-sized pieces. Place them in a large pot, cover with salted water, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Once done, drain them and return the pot to the stove to keep warm.

Step 2: Mash the Potatoes
Add butter and warm heavy cream to the drained potatoes in the pot. Using a potato masher, blend until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Keep the mashed potatoes covered to retain their warmth while you prepare the garlic shrimp.

Step 3: Season and Cook the Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt a tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant and golden. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine, and bring it to a simmer, allowing it to bubble lightly for a couple of minutes.

Step 5: Combine Sauce with Parmesan
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and optional Dijon mustard (if using) into the cream sauce, mixing until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, tasting to ensure the flavor is just right for your garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes.

Step 6: Plate and Serve
To plate the dish, scoop generous amounts of creamy mashed potatoes onto each plate, creating a cozy base. Top with the cooked garlic shrimp, allowing them to nestle into the potatoes. Drizzle the luscious garlic cream sauce over the shrimp, adding an elegant finish, and garnish with fresh thyme for a touch of color and flavor.

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Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes are perfect for busy cooks who appreciate meal prep! You can prepare the mashed potatoes up to 24 hours in advance; simply mash them as instructed and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain their creamy texture, reheat with a splash of warm milk and cover to steam while warming. Additionally, the shrimp can be seasoned and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, cook the shrimp fresh as per the instructions, and combine them with the sauce. This way, you’ll still enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, making your weeknight dinners a breeze!

Expert Tips for Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Golds are ideal for their creaminess. Avoid using waxy potatoes, which can lead to a gummy texture.
Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery. Aim for 2-3 minutes per side for perfect tenderness.
Warm Your Compression Cream: Using warm cream helps maintain a silky texture in your garlic sauce. Cold cream can result in separation.
Taste as You Go: Always taste the sauce before serving to adjust seasoning. Balancing flavors ensures that the garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes shines on your table.
Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve this dish right after preparation. Mashed potatoes and sauce can lose their creaminess if left too long.

Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes Variations

Feel free to take this recipe and make it your own with these delightful twists that will tantalize your taste buds!

Plant-Based Protein: Swap shrimp for chickpeas or tofu, seasoning them with the same spices to keep the delicious flavor.
Zesty Lemon: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the sauce for a bright contrast that cuts through the richness.
Creamy Dream: Use a mixture of half-and-half and heavy cream for an ultra-luxurious sauce that’s simply irresistible.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate red chili flakes into the garlic sauce for a delightful heat that will elevate your dish to the next level.
Wine Infusion: Add a splash of white wine to the sauce; simmer until reduced for a subtle complexity that brightens every bite.
Herb Variation: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a vibrant pop of flavor and color.
Extra Veggies: Stir in sautéed spinach or kale to incorporate some greens and add a lovely earthy note to this dish.
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika to introduce a comforting, smoky undertone that pairs beautifully with the shrimp.

If you’re in the mood for more seafood, check out our Grilled Shrimp Tostadas or for a delicious twist on pasta, try our Honey Garlic Meatball Rice Bake for another mind-blowing flavor experience!

How to Store and Freeze Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

Fridge: Store leftover garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain creaminess.

Freezer: Freeze portions of garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes in resealable freezer bags for up to 1 month. Squeeze out air before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the texture.

Best Enjoyed Fresh: While you can store leftovers, this dish is best enjoyed fresh to savor the creamy goodness of the garlic sauce and perfectly mashed potatoes.

What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes?

Experience a delightful culinary journey paired perfectly with this luxurious, creamy dish that tantalizes your taste buds.

Crisp Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad balances the richness of the dish, adding a bright crunch with every bite. Toss in seasonal veggies and a zesty vinaigrette for an invigorating contrast.
Garlic Bread: Complement the creamy garlic shrimp with buttery garlic bread, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. It’s a comforting pairing that makes every bite feel indulgent.
Steamed Asparagus: This vibrant, tender vegetable adds a pop of color and freshness to your plate. The slight crunch and subtle earthiness harmonize beautifully with the dish’s richness.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of oven-roasted carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini offers a sweet counterpart to the savory flavors. Their natural sweetness enhances the overall meal experience.
Wine Pairing: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc brings out the flavors of the garlic and shrimp, while its acidity cuts through the creaminess of the dish, making it an ideal sipping companion.
Dessert Option: Finish on a sweet note with a light berry sorbet. This airy treat refreshes your palate and concludes your meal with a delightful zing.

Each of these pairings elevates the cozy vibe of creamy garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes, crafting a complete dining experience that’s sure to please everyone gathered around your table.

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Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes should I use for the mashed potatoes?
I recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture, which creates the perfect base for silky mashed potatoes. If you can’t find them, Russets are a good alternative as they also mash well.

How long can I store leftovers in the refrigerator?
You can store leftover garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. However, to keep the creaminess of the sauce, it’s best to store the sauce separately if possible.

Can I freeze garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! You can freeze portions of garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes in resealable freezer bags for up to 1 month. Be sure to squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If you find your garlic cream sauce is too thick after cooking, simply add a splash of warm heavy cream or milk while gently stirring over low heat. This will help reach your desired consistency without sacrificing flavor!

Is this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes! You can easily adapt this dish for various dietary needs. For instance, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option and omit Parmesan, using nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative. Just ensure your shrimp is sourced accordingly if accommodating for allergens.

What’s the best way to reheat the dish?
To reheat, thaw any frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. Then, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to bring back the creamy texture. Stir until warmed through, and enjoy your delicious garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes again!