Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

Okay, grab a seat at the kitchen table, friends, because I have got a story for you – and a recipe for Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes that will knock your socks off.

I remember the first time I made this dish. I was a newlywed, trying to impress my husband (bless his heart, he’s always been easy to please!), and I envisioned a fancy, restaurant-worthy meal. What actually happened was… well, let’s just say the garlic burned, the shrimp were rubbery, and the mashed potatoes tasted suspiciously like wallpaper paste. The disaster recipe I was following just wasn’t working for me. Thankfully, after a few trials and errors, I finally nailed the garlic shrimp mashed potato recipe!

But even after all that experimentation, it turned into our little secret weapon for busy weeknights. You know those evenings where everyone’s starving, you’re juggling a million things, and the thought of spending hours in the kitchen makes you want to hide in the pantry? That’s where this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes dish comes to the rescue. It’s quick, it’s comforting, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love comfort food shrimp recipe?

Now, I’m not a chef; I’m just a mom who loves to cook good food for her family. My kitchen philosophy is all about keeping things simple, using fresh ingredients, and not being afraid to experiment (even if it means a few burned garlic incidents along the way!). And this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes recipe perfectly embodies that. I also remember the first time I saw someone share Garlic shrimp cream sauce over chunky mashed potatoes in a Facebook group!

This dish became a family favorite not just because it tastes amazing, but because it’s also a memory on a plate. It reminds me of those early days of marriage, of learning and growing in the kitchen, and of the simple joy of sharing a delicious meal with the people I love. Plus, this is such a great recipe for Date Night Blackened Salmon & Shrimp with Creamy Garlic Herb …, which is one of my favorites! I even have some family and friends asking if I can make some Creamy mashed potato,Garlic butter vegetables and shrimps for them!

So, are you ready to dive in and create some delicious memories of your own? I promise this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes recipe is much easier than it looks. Come on, let’s get cooking!

What You’ll Need for This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

Okay, let’s gather our ingredients. Don’t worry if you don’t have everything on hand; this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes recipe is very forgiving. Feel free to make substitutions based on what you have in your fridge or pantry. That’s the beauty of home cooking!

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1.5 lbs Shrimp: Peeled and deveined. I always use large or jumbo shrimp for this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes dish because they hold their shape nicely and are just so satisfying to bite into.
  • 4 tbsp Butter: Unsalted, because we want to control the saltiness of our dish.
  • 6 cloves Garlic: Minced. And don’t skimp on the garlic! It’s what gives this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes its signature flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Chicken Broth: Adds a nice depth of flavor to the sauce. Vegetable broth works too!
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce so rich and creamy. Don’t substitute with milk or half-and-half; it won’t be the same.
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, cheesy touch.
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish and a pop of freshness.
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste.
  • 2.5 lbs Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet, peeled and quartered. I find Yukon Golds give a creamier texture to my mashed potatoes, which is perfect with the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes.
  • 1/2 cup Milk: Warmed.
  • 4 tbsp Butter: Unsalted.
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste.
  • Optional: Pinch of nutmeg for the mashed potatoes (trust me on this!).
A photo of the raw ingredients needed to make creamy garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes.

When making Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes, I always use fresh garlic. The flavor is just so much better than the pre-minced stuff. Also, if you’re short on time, you can buy pre-peeled and deveined shrimp. It’ll save you a few minutes in the kitchen.

Here’s a Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes trick I learned: Don’t overcook your shrimp! They cook very quickly, so keep a close eye on them. Overcooked shrimp are rubbery and tough. I like to cook them until they’re just pink and opaque.

You can usually find everything you need for this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes recipe at your local grocery store. If you’re looking for high-quality shrimp, check out your local seafood market or fishmonger. For more potato recipes, check out my garlic cheddar potato soup!

As for cost-saving tips, buy your shrimp in bulk when it’s on sale and freeze it for later. And don’t be afraid to use frozen vegetables in a pinch! They’re just as nutritious as fresh vegetables.

To store leftover ingredients, keep the shrimp in the refrigerator for up to two days. Store the potatoes in a cool, dark place. The garlic can be stored at room temperature for up to a week.

Now that we have all our ingredients, let’s get cooking! This easy shrimp and mashed potatoes recipe is going to blow your mind.

Let’s Make This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes Together

Alright, my friend, let’s get down to business and make this amazing Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes. Don’t be intimidated; it’s much easier than it looks! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious and comforting meal on the table in no time.

  1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the warm milk, butter, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Mash until smooth and creamy. Set aside and keep warm. You know what I do when my Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes needs some help? I add a bit of sour cream for flavor!
  2. Prepare the Shrimp: While the potatoes are cooking, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This will help them brown nicely in the pan. Season with salt and pepper. In my kitchen, Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes usually takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, so you can definitely prep the shrimp while the potatoes are boiling.
  3. Cook the Garlic Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  4. Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for a minute or two to reduce the liquid slightly. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer again and cook until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Combine and Serve: Stir in the chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Spoon the mashed potatoes into bowls and top with the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes. Garnish with extra parsley, if desired.

Don’t worry if your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes sauce seems a little thin at first; it will thicken as it cools. And if you accidentally overcook the shrimp (we’ve all been there!), don’t panic. Just toss them in the sauce, and the creaminess will help to mask the dryness.

I learned the hard way with Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes that you should always have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. It makes the whole process so much smoother and less stressful.

While the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes is cooking, I like to set the table, pour some drinks, and maybe even put on some music. It makes the whole experience feel more special. Your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes should smell like garlic, butter, and the ocean – it’s a smell that makes my mouth water every time!

And that’s it! You’ve just made a delicious and comforting Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes meal that your whole family will love. Pat yourself on the back – you deserve it!

How I Love to Serve This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

Okay, now that you’ve made this incredible Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes, let’s talk about how to serve it and make it even more special.

My family loves this quick and easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes when I serve it with a simple side salad. The freshness of the salad helps to balance out the richness of the dish. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is perfect. Also, something like my Maple Glazed Chicken With Sweet Potatoes could serve as a great pre-meal side dish!

I also love to serve this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes with a side of steamed green beans or asparagus. The green vegetables add a pop of color to the plate and provide some extra nutrients. For another starch option, check out my roasted garlic potato soup!

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or even a special occasion. It’s elegant enough to impress your guests, but easy enough to make on a busy weeknight.

For presentation tips, I like to spoon the mashed potatoes into bowls and then top with the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes. I garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil.

If you have extra Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it gently in a skillet or microwave.

As for seasonal variations, you can add different vegetables to the sauce depending on the season. In the spring, try adding asparagus or peas. In the summer, try adding tomatoes or zucchini. In the fall, try adding butternut squash or sweet potatoes.

Friends always ask for this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes recipe when I make it for them. It’s always a hit!

Your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes Questions Answered

Okay, let’s tackle some of those burning questions you might have about making this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes. I’ve been making this dish for years, so I’ve definitely learned a few things along the way.

  • Can I use frozen shrimp? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. I like to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water. Pat them dry before cooking to ensure they brown nicely. You know what I do when my Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes needs a boost? Using fresh parsley is a great option!
  • Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can make the mashed potatoes and the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat them gently before serving. Cook the shrimp just before serving to ensure they’re fresh and tender.
  • Can I use milk instead of cream? I wouldn’t recommend it. The cream is what makes the sauce so rich and creamy. If you use milk, the sauce will be thinner and less flavorful.
  • Can I add vegetables to the sauce? Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like. Some good options include asparagus, peas, tomatoes, zucchini, and butternut squash.
  • What if my sauce is too thin? If your sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it for a few minutes longer. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water).
  • What if my shrimp are overcooked? If your shrimp are overcooked, they’ll be tough and rubbery. Unfortunately, there’s not much you can do to fix overcooked shrimp. Just try to avoid overcooking them in the first place by cooking them until they’re just pink and opaque.
  • Can I make this dairy-free? Yes, you can make this dairy-free by using plant-based butter and cream. You can also omit the Parmesan cheese. My family loves this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes even when it’s dairy-free! I think using a good plant-based option goes a long way!

My Final Thoughts on This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

So, there you have it – my go-to recipe for Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes. It’s a dish that’s near and dear to my heart, not just because it tastes amazing, but because it represents so many happy memories. It reminds me of learning to cook for my family, of experimenting in the kitchen, and of the simple joy of sharing a delicious meal with the people I love.

My Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes Pro Tips

  • Don’t overcook the shrimp! They cook very quickly, so keep a close eye on them.
  • Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg to the mashed potatoes for a warm, comforting flavor.

As for variations, I’ve tried adding different vegetables to the sauce, like asparagus, peas, and tomatoes. I’ve also tried using different types of cheese, like Gruyere and Fontina. My husband loves it when I add a little bit of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Ultimately, the best way to make this creamy garlic shrimp and mashed potatoes is to make it your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors until you find something that you love.

I hope you enjoy making this creamy and delicious Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes as much as I do. And I hope it brings as much joy to your family as it has to mine. The best part about this is that it can be a part of a garlic shrimp mashed potato recipe to your liking! So, go ahead, grab your ingredients, and get cooking! I know you can do it! And remember, even if you burn the garlic a little bit, it’ll still be delicious. This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes can also be considered one of my favorite comfort food shrimp recipes to make on a rainy day!

Creamy garlic shrimp served over a bed of mashed potatoes in a white bowl.

I hope this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes dish becomes a staple in your home, bringing comfort and joy with every bite.

 

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Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

Delicious Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

Indulge in the comforting flavors of creamy garlic shrimp served over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

  • Author: Liliana
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Prepared mashed potatoes (amount as desired)

Instructions

  1. Prepare mashed potatoes according to your favorite recipe. Keep warm.
  2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  3. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  4. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
  6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  8. Serve the creamy garlic shrimp over a bed of mashed potatoes. Garnish with extra parsley, if desired.

Notes

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

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