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Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe

4.5 from 65 reviews

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes recipe delivers a comforting and elegant dish that combines tender seared shrimp with a luscious garlic cream sauce, served atop smooth, buttery mashed Yukon Gold potatoes. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe balances rich flavors and creamy textures with easy-to-follow steps that take just 30-35 minutes from start to finish.

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
  • 4 tablespoons butter, salted or unsalted
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or plant-based cream if preferred)
  • 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
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra Parmesan for serving

Instructions

  1. Preparing Potatoes: Begin by placing the peeled and cubed Yukon Gold potatoes into a large pot filled with cold, salted water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and simmer for 12-15 minutes or until potatoes are fork-tender.
  2. Seasoning Shrimp: While the potatoes cook, pat the shrimp dry thoroughly with paper towels. Season evenly with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
  3. Searing Shrimp: With about 5 minutes left on the potatoes, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. When shimmering, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer without overcrowding. Sear for 2 minutes per side until pink and slightly golden, then remove to a plate and set aside.
  4. Making Garlic Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons butter. Add freshly minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, avoiding browning. Pour in heavy cream and broth, whisk to combine, and bring to gentle simmer. Gradually add Parmesan cheese while stirring constantly until sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Add a pinch of nutmeg and black pepper; adjust salt to taste.
  5. Finishing Mashed Potatoes: Drain potatoes thoroughly to remove excess water. Return them to the hot pot, add 4 tablespoons butter, allowing it to melt, then pour in 1/2 cup heavy cream. Mash gently until creamy and smooth, being careful not to overwork them. Season with salt and optional white pepper to taste.
  6. Combining Shrimp and Sauce: Return the seared shrimp to the skillet with the creamy garlic sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through and coat the shrimp thoroughly with the sauce.
  7. Serving: Plate a generous scoop of mashed potatoes, spoon the creamy garlic shrimp over the top, and garnish with fresh thyme leaves, chopped parsley, red chili flakes, and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

  • Drying the shrimp before searing is crucial for a good sear and flavorful crust.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing shrimp to ensure even cooking and browning.
  • Use Yukon Gold potatoes for creamier mashed potatoes; Russets can be used but will be less creamy.
  • Be careful not to burn the garlic in the sauce as it will turn bitter.
  • Do not overwork mashed potatoes to avoid a gluey texture.
  • Nutmeg in the sauce enhances the overall flavor subtly without overpowering.
  • This recipe can be made vegan by using plant-based cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
  • Adjust seasoning of salt and pepper throughout to your taste preferences.

Keywords: shrimp recipe, garlic shrimp, creamy shrimp, mashed potatoes, seafood dinner, easy dinner, stovetop recipe, comfort food