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Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe

4.9 from 132 reviews

This creamy garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes recipe combines tender, seared shrimp in a luscious garlic cream sauce paired with smooth, buttery Yukon Gold mashed potatoes. It’s a comforting yet elegant meal perfect for any night of the week, combining rich flavors and simple techniques for a delicious, satisfying dish.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Shrimp:

  • 1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined (1620 count works best)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for searing
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Mashed Potatoes:

  • 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed (Russets work too, but Yukons are creamier)
  • 4 tablespoons butter, salted or unsalted
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or plant-based cream if you prefer)
  • Salt to taste (start with 1 teaspoon)
  • 1/4 teaspoon white pepper (optional)

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, freshly minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated (or nutritional yeast for vegan)
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • Fresh cracked black pepper to taste
  • Pinch of nutmeg

Optional Garnish:

  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • Pinch of red chili flakes for heat
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra Parmesan for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Fill a large pot with cold water and add a generous pinch of salt. Add the peeled and cubed Yukon Gold potatoes, bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and let simmer for 12-15 minutes until fork-tender.
  2. Season the Shrimp: While potatoes cook, pat shrimp dry thoroughly with paper towels for a good sear. Season evenly with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
  3. Sear the Shrimp: Once potatoes have about 5 minutes left, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add shrimp in a single layer without overcrowding. Sear for about 2 minutes per side until pink and slightly golden. Remove shrimp to a plate, set aside.
  4. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, careful not to burn. Pour in heavy cream and broth, whisk to combine, and bring to gentle simmer. Gradually add Parmesan, stirring constantly until sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in nutmeg and cracked black pepper. Adjust salt to taste.
  5. Finish the Mashed Potatoes: Drain potatoes thoroughly and return them to the hot pot. Add 4 tablespoons butter, let melt, then add 1/2 cup heavy cream. Mash potatoes until smooth and creamy, avoid overworking to prevent gluey texture. Season with salt and optional white pepper.
  6. Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return seared shrimp to the garlic cream sauce in the skillet. Let them cook together for 2-3 minutes until shrimp are fully cooked and coated in the sauce.
  7. Serve: Plate a generous portion of mashed potatoes, spoon creamy garlic shrimp over the top, and garnish with fresh thyme, parsley, red chili flakes, and extra Parmesan as desired.

Notes

  • Patting shrimp dry is essential for a good sear and caramelization.
  • Use Yukon Gold potatoes for creamier mashed potatoes; Russets can be used but yield a different texture.
  • Don’t burn the garlic when making the sauce to avoid bitterness.
  • Gradually adding Parmesan helps the sauce thicken and prevents curdling.
  • Don’t overwork mashed potatoes to avoid a gluey finish.
  • You can substitute plant-based cream and nutritional yeast for a vegan version, using vegetable broth.
  • Optional garnishes like fresh thyme and red chili flakes add extra flavor depth.

Keywords: creamy garlic shrimp, mashed potatoes, garlic cream sauce, seared shrimp, easy dinner, comfort food, stovetop shrimp recipe