Name: Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1 teaspoon paprika (or Cajun seasoning); 4 cloves garlic (fresh or jarred minced); 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (or red potatoes); 4 tablespoons butter (plant-based butter for dairy-free); ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half or coconut cream); 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter); ½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth); ½ cup Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast); 1 pinch nutmeg

As I stood in my kitchen, the seductive aroma of sizzling garlic began to weave its way through the air, instantly transporting me to my favorite coastal restaurant. Today, I’m excited to share my take on Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes—a dish that perfectly marries the indulgence of restaurant-quality comfort food with the simplicity of a quick weeknight dinner. You can whip this up in just 30 minutes, making it a fabulous option for those busy evenings when you refuse to settle for fast food. Plus, it caters to various dietary needs with gluten-free and dairy-free adaptations. The combination of succulent shrimp and velvety mashed potatoes creates a luscious balance that’s sure to impress your loved ones. Ready to dive into culinary bliss? Let’s get cooking!

Why is this dish a must-try?

Indulgent, Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes is a delightful combination of rich flavors and textures that will warm your soul. Quick & Easy, ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights yet sophisticated enough for special occasions. Versatile, with options for gluten-free, dairy-free, and keto adjustments, this dish suits a variety of dietary preferences. Crowd-Pleasing, it’s sure to impress family and friends, making it a go-to choice for gatherings. For more comforting recipes, check out my delicious Garlic Parmesan One-Pot Pasta or a satisfying Cheesy Mashed Potato Puff Bites.

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes Ingredients

For the Shrimp

Shrimp – Use large, fresh or frozen shrimp peeled and deveined for the best flavor.
Paprika – Adds a mild flavor and beautiful color to the shrimp; consider Cajun seasoning for a spicier kick.
Garlic – Fresh garlic enhances the sauce’s flavor; jarred minced garlic can work in a hurry.

For the Mashed Potatoes

Potatoes – Yukon Golds offer a creamy texture, but red potatoes are a great substitute if needed.
Butter – Enhances the creaminess in both the sauce and potatoes; plant-based butter suits dairy-free diets.
Heavy Cream – This forms the base of your creamy sauce; for a lighter option, try half-and-half or coconut cream.

For the Sauce

Olive Oil – Searing the shrimp in olive oil adds richness and prevents sticking; butter can be used for extra depth.
Chicken Broth – Vital for depth in the sauce; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
Parmesan Cheese – Provides amazing umami; nutritional yeast is a fantastic dairy-free alternative.
Nutmeg – A pinch adds warmth to the sauce; just be careful not to overdo it!

With these ingredients, you’ll create a heavenly Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes dish that will leave everyone craving more!

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

Step 1: Prepare Potatoes
Begin by peeling and cubing about two pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes. In a large pot, add the cubed potatoes and cover them with cold, salted water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook until fork-tender, about 12-15 minutes. This will create the perfect base for creamy mashed potatoes to accompany your flavorful shrimp.

Step 2: Season Shrimp
While the potatoes are cooking, take 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp and pat them dry with a paper towel. In a small bowl, season the shrimp with a teaspoon of paprika, salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. This seasoning will enhance the shrimp’s natural sweetness, adding a delicious depth of flavor that perfectly complements the creamy sauce in the final dish.

Step 3: Sear Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Carefully add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pan. Sear for about 2 minutes on each side until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside, allowing the residual heat to keep them warm while you prepare the sauce.

Step 4: Make Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add 4 minced garlic cloves, sautéing until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Slowly pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of chicken broth, whisking to combine. Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth, then season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for that extra layer of flavor.

Step 5: Mash Potatoes
Once the potatoes are fork-tender, drain them thoroughly and return them to the pot over low heat. Add 4 tablespoons of butter and ½ cup of heavy cream to the drained potatoes. Mash with a potato masher or hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, creating a rich bed for your delicious creamy garlic shrimp.

Step 6: Combine
Now, add the seared shrimp back into the creamy sauce in the skillet. Stir gently to coat the shrimp in the rich sauce, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. This combination will ensure that your shrimp is succulent and covered in that delectable creamy garlic sauce, ready to be served over the fluffy mashed potatoes.

Step 7: Serve and Savor
To plate the dish, generously scoop the creamy mashed potatoes onto each serving dish, forming a lovely mound. Top with the creamy garlic shrimp and drizzle any leftover sauce over the top. It’s time to enjoy your homemade Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes, a comforting dish that’s sure to impress your loved ones with its restaurant-quality taste!

What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

Elevate your dining experience with delicious pairings that perfectly complement this indulgent seafood dish.

Light Arugula Salad: A crisp, peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the shrimp, refreshing your palate with each bite.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery garlic breadsticks bring a satisfying crunch and aroma, perfect for scooping up any leftover creamy sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables add both nutrition and visual appeal, their earthy flavors wonderfully contrasting the creamy shrimp.
Steamed Green Beans: Tender, bright green beans drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of lemon zest enhance the dish’s freshness while maintaining a delightful crunch.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay beautifully complements the creamy garlic sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors for an elevated dining experience.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich chocolate mousse provides a decadent—yet airy—finish, leaving your guests with a sweet memory of their meal.
Herbed Rice: Fluffy herbed rice absorbs the delicious sauce, making it a comforting side that rounds out your meal with satisfying heartiness.
Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash offers a creamy texture that pairs excellently with the shrimp’s rich sauce while keeping it light.

Expert Tips for Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

Pat Dry Shrimp: Ensuring shrimp are patted dry before cooking helps achieve a beautiful sear, preventing them from steaming.
Don’t Overcook: Keep a close eye on shrimp while cooking; they should be pink and slightly curled to prevent a rubbery texture.
Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter sauce, swap heavy cream for a mix of whole milk and melted butter, making this dish more approachable.
Taste as You Go: Always taste and adjust the seasoning, especially salt and a splash of lemon juice for a bright touch in your creamy sauce.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to personalize your dish; adding sun-dried tomatoes or spinach can elevate the flavors of your creamy garlic shrimp.

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes Variations

Feel free to customize this dish with these fun variations that will elevate your dining experience and cater to different tastes.

Low-Carb Option: Replace mashed potatoes with cauliflower mash for a delicious and health-conscious alternative that’s just as creamy.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and plant-based butter for an indulgent, dairy-free sauce that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Gluten-Free Choice: Ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free to enjoy this dish without worry. The flavors remain just as rich and satisfying!
Extra Veggies: Toss in fresh spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for a nutritious pop of color and added fiber.
Flavorful Twist: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce for an extra layer of flavor. They add a delightful tang that pairs beautifully with garlic.
Heat Lovers: If you enjoy a bit of spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce for a gentle kick that’ll tantalize your taste buds.
Herbed-Up Version: Add a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or basil right before serving to brighten the dish with fresh, aromatic notes.
Seafood Medley: For a seafood extravaganza, mix in some scallops or crab meat along with the shrimp for a luxurious touch. This will take your meal from comforting to restaurant-worthy.

Whether you’re opting for a dairy-free alternative or making it a seafood medley, these variations will ensure your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes is a delightful experience every time. Don’t forget to check out my wholesome Garlic Lovers Roasted for another aromatic dish that is sure to impress!

Make Ahead Options

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish any night of the week! You can prepare the mashed potatoes and the creamy garlic sauce separately up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook the potatoes and mash them, then let them cool before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The shrimp can be seasoned and sautéed up to 24 hours ahead; just refrigerate them in a covered container. To reheat, warm the mashed potatoes gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream, and heat the shrimp in the sauce until piping hot. By following these steps, you’ll save valuable time while still serving a dish that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Keep shrimp and sauce separate from mashed potatoes to maintain texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shrimp and sauce together in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool completely before sealing.

Reheating: Thaw frozen shrimp and sauce in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to keep the shrimp tender.

Mashed Potatoes: If freezing mashed potatoes, add a splash of milk or cream before reheating to restore their creamy texture.

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use?
I recommend using large, fresh or frozen shrimp that are peeled and deveined for the best flavor and texture. Avoid small shrimp, as they can overcook more easily and lose their tenderness.

How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It’s best to keep the shrimp and sauce separate from the mashed potatoes to prevent them from becoming soggy and to maintain their textures.

Can I freeze Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes?
Absolutely! For freezing, place the shrimp and creamy sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight, and gently reheat on the stovetop.

What if my shrimp are overcooked?
If your shrimp turn out rubbery due to overcooking, don’t fret! You can try to salvage the dish by adding a bit more cream or broth to your sauce to help mask the texture. In the future, keep a close watch while cooking; they cook quite quickly—just 2 minutes on each side is ideal!

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Yes, you can easily adapt this dish to be dairy-free! Use plant-based butter for the potatoes and coconut cream in the sauce instead of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan cheese for cheesy flavor without the dairy.

Are there any allergies I should consider?
If you’re serving individuals with shellfish allergies, this dish is not suitable. For those with lactose intolerance, sticking to dairy-free alternatives for butter, cream, and cheese will make this dish friendly for them. Always check your broth to ensure it’s gluten-free if necessary.