Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes – A Luxurious Comfort Food Classic

If you are craving a dish that combines indulgent creaminess with the fresh, briny taste of seafood, this recipe Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes – A Luxurious Comfort Food Classic is exactly what you need. Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes offers a satisfyingly rich yet comforting experience, balancing tender, perfectly seasoned shrimp with fluffy mashed potatoes and a luscious garlic-infused sauce. It’s one of those dishes that feels special enough for company but simple enough to whip up on a cozy weeknight. Once you make it, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in creating that dreamy flavor and texture. The blend of spices on the shrimp adds depth, the creamy garlic sauce brings richness, and the mashed potatoes act as the perfect cozy base. Let’s dive into the essentials you’ll want to gather before you start.

• Large shrimp (1 lb): Peeled and deveined shrimp ensure quick, even cooking and deliver that tender seafood bite.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Used to coat the shrimp for a lovely sear and enhanced flavor.
• Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle smoky warmth that complements the shrimp beautifully.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Boosts the garlicky goodness without overwhelming the dish.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors harmoniously.
• Butter (2 tablespoons + ¼ cup): Provides creamy richness both in the sauce and the potatoes.
• Fresh garlic (4 cloves): Minced, it delivers that fresh, aromatic punch to the sauce.
• Heavy cream (1 cup): The heart of the sauce, lending a silky texture and luscious flavor.
• Parmesan cheese (½ cup grated): Adds salty depth and perfectly complements the creamy sauce.
• Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon, optional): A subtle tang that brings brightness and complexity to the sauce.
• Fresh thyme leaves: For garnish, adding a fragrant herbal note and a pop of color.
• Potatoes (2 lbs): Peeled and cubed for fluffy mashed potatoes that cradle the shrimp and sauce.
• Warm milk (½ cup): Keeps the mashed potatoes silky smooth and prevents them from becoming gluey.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes – A Luxurious Comfort Food Classic

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Start by boiling your peeled, cubed potatoes in salted water until tender enough to pierce easily with a fork, usually around 15 minutes. Once they’re cooked, drain well and mash them back in the pot with butter and warm milk. The warmth of the milk is a game-changer—it keeps those potatoes fluffy and silky rather than sticky or gummy. Season generously with salt to make sure every bite sings with comfort.

Step 2: Season and Cook Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes – A Luxurious Comfort Food Classic

Now let’s talk about Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes – A Luxurious Comfort Food Classic. Toss the prepared shrimp in olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until they’re well coated. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side. The goal is to get them beautifully pink and just cooked through, with a slight sear to lock in those juicy flavors. Be mindful not to overcrowd the pan; cooking in batches if necessary will keep the shrimp sizzling without steaming.

Step 3: Craft the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In that same skillet that now holds shrimp’s delicious remnants, melt butter and sauté the freshly minced garlic until fragrant—about one minute will do. Add the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and, if you’re feeling adventurous, a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a subtle tang that cuts through the richness. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then let the sauce simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken and develop a deep, comforting flavor. Optional extras like a splash of white wine or a sprinkle of red chili flakes can elevate this sauce to new heights.

Step 4: Assemble Your Dish

To serve, spoon a generous bed of warm mashed potatoes onto each plate. Nestle in the perfectly cooked shrimp on top and then generously drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over everything. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves—they add a fresh herbal aroma and a lovely visual contrast to this indulgent dish. Serve immediately to enjoy that interplay of creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and fluffy potatoes at their very best.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes – A Luxurious Comfort Food Classic

Garnishes

Fresh thyme leaves are the classic finishing touch for this dish, offering a burst of color and an herbal lift that balances the creaminess. For an extra pop, consider adding a light dusting of smoked paprika or finely chopped parsley. A wedge of lemon on the side brightens the flavors beautifully if you want a citrusy zing with every bite.

Side Dishes

This dish is quite rich, so pairing it with crisp, light sides works wonderfully. A simple mixed greens salad with a zesty vinaigrette can add refreshing contrast. Steamed or roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or green beans provide a crisp texture and nutritious balance that complements the creamy shrimp and potatoes.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests or just jazz up a family dinner, serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes – A Luxurious Comfort Food Classic in shallow bowls to showcase all the layers beautifully. You might also plate the mashed potatoes in a neat circle and arrange the shrimp decoratively on top, finishing with a drizzle of sauce and herb garnish. Another idea is to serve the shrimp and sauce over mashed sweet potatoes for a colorful twist that’s equally comforting but with a hint of natural sweetness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the shrimp and sauce separately from the mashed potatoes to maintain the best texture. Use airtight containers and refrigerate for up to two days. This keeps the shrimp from absorbing excess liquid and the potatoes from becoming dense.

Freezing

While mashed potatoes generally freeze well, it’s best to freeze the shrimp and sauce separately if you plan to store for longer periods. Place them in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags and use within 1 month for optimal flavor. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the shrimp and sauce gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent curdling or overcooking. Heat the mashed potatoes in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen their texture. Combining them just before serving will bring back the dish’s creamy luxury.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw and pat the shrimp dry before seasoning and cooking to get the best texture and sear.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream in the sauce?

You can substitute half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream cheese for a lighter but still creamy sauce, though it won’t be quite as rich.

How do I prevent the shrimp from turning rubbery?

Cooking shrimp quickly over medium-high heat until they just turn pink is key. Overcooking is the main culprit behind rubbery shrimp, so watch the cook time carefully.

Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! Make them a few hours before serving and keep covered to stay warm. Reheat gently with a little warm milk before assembling the dish.

What herbs pair well with this shrimp dish?

Fresh thyme is classic here, but parsley, chives, or even a light sprinkle of dill can add nice complementary notes without overpowering the garlic and cream sauce.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes – A Luxurious Comfort Food Classic served over creamy mashed potatoes that feels like a warm, welcoming hug on a plate. This recipe perfectly balances indulgence and comfort, making it a standout meal any night you want to treat yourself. Give it a try—you just might be making it on repeat for years to come!

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