The unmistakable aroma of sizzling garlic wafts through the air, instantly transporting me to the sun-drenched shores of Puerto Rico. Enter Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, a dish that captures the essence of comfort food while impressing guests with its vibrant presentation. This dish beautifully melds crispy, golden plantains with tender shrimp sautéed in a savory garlic sauce—creating an experience that’s as delightful to eat as it is to prepare. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a special occasion, this recipe pairs simplicity with a touch of flair, making it a crowd-pleaser without breaking a sweat. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs effortlessly. Are you ready to dive into this flavorful journey? Let’s bring a taste of Puerto Rican heritage into your kitchen!

Why Will You Love Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?

Simplicity at Its Core: This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Bold, Flavorful Experience: The combination of garlic, cilantro, and lime juice infuses each bite with a burst of vibrant flavor, giving your taste buds a delightful kick.

Crispy Meets Creamy: Enjoy the perfect harmony between the crispy plantains and the tender shrimp, creating a satisfying contrast that you’ll crave again and again.

Versatile Ingredients: Not a shrimp fan? No problem! Feel free to swap in scallops or chicken for a delicious variation that still holds true to the recipe’s roots, much like our Garlic Butter Shrimp or Garlic Parmesan Chicken.

Showstopper Dish: Impress your friends and family with a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious—perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the mofongo ahead of time and reheat, ensuring you have more time to enjoy your meal, much like our Garlic Knots Melt.

Dive into this culinary adventure and let Garlic Shrimp Mofongo brighten up your dinner table!

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Ingredients

For the Mofongo
• Green Plantains – The starchy base gives structure and unique flavor; choose very ripe for optimal sweetness.
• Olive Oil – For frying, adding a fruity flavor; vegetable oil can be a suitable substitute.
• Butter – Enhances richness in the sauce; omit for a dairy-free version.
• Salt – Elevates overall flavor; adjust based on the saltiness of your broth.
• Black Pepper – Adds a hint of heat to the dish.
• Paprika – Provides mild flavor and color; smoked paprika can deepen the taste.
• Crumbled Bacon (optional) – Adds a salty, smoky element; skip for a lighter dish.

For the Garlic Shrimp
• Shrimp – The star ingredient for richness; fresh or peeled, deveined frozen options work perfectly.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic is preferred to elevate the savory profile.
• Chicken Broth – Adds moisture and depth to the shrimp; substitute with vegetable broth if desired.
• Fresh Cilantro – Brightens the dish; can replace with parsley if needed.
• Lime Juice – Essential for balancing flavors; freshly squeezed is always best.

This delectable dish of Garlic Shrimp Mofongo will transport your taste buds straight to the shores of Puerto Rico! Enjoy every bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

Step 1: Prepare the Plantains
Start by peeling two green plantains. Slice them into 1-inch thick pieces to ensure even cooking. The neatness of your cuts will help them fry uniformly. Place the sliced plantains aside as you prepare for frying. This will be the base of your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo, offering a delightful texture.

Step 2: Fry the Plantains
Heat about 1 cup of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the plantain slices in batches, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Fry each side for about 4-5 minutes until they turn golden and tender. Remove them from the skillet and let them drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Shrimp
In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and add 2 tablespoons of butter along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once melted, add 4 cloves of minced garlic, sautéing it for about 1 minute until fragrant and lightly golden. This aromatic base will intensify the flavor of your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo.

Step 4: Add Shrimp and Seasonings
Incorporate 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp into the skillet, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste, along with 1 teaspoon of paprika. Cook the shrimp for approximately 3-4 minutes until they are pink and opaque, stirring occasionally. The vibrant color change signals that they are reaching perfect doneness.

Step 5: Add Broth and Finish Shrimp
Pour in ½ cup of chicken broth and let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. To finish, stir in the juice of 1 freshly squeezed lime and a handful of chopped cilantro. Remove the skillet from heat, letting the rich garlic and shrimp sauce become the highlight of your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo.

Step 6: Mash Plantains
In a large bowl, take your fried plantains and mash them using a fork or potato masher until smooth, but still slightly chunky for texture. If desired, mix in crumbled bacon at this stage for an extra smoky flavor. This fluffy mixture is the star of your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo!

Step 7: Form Mofongo
Using your hands or a mold, shape the mashed plantains into a dome or bowl. This unique form not only looks appealing but creates a lovely base to hold the shrimp. Ensure it’s compact enough to maintain its shape when serving your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo.

Step 8: Serve
Carefully place the formed mofongo on a plate, creating a nest for the shrimp. Top generously with the garlic shrimp mixture and drizzle any remaining sauce over the top. Garnish with additional cilantro, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the remarkable flavors of your fresh Garlic Shrimp Mofongo!

Make Ahead Options

These Garlic Shrimp Mofongo are perfect for busy weeknights when you’re looking to save time! You can prep the plantains by frying and mashing them up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their texture. Additionally, the shrimp mixture can be cooked up to 3 days ahead—just refrigerate it after cooling. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet, and you may need to add a splash of broth to keep it moist. Form the chilled mofongo just before serving and combine them with the reheated shrimp for an effortlessly delicious meal that’s just as flavorful!

How to Store and Freeze Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

Fridge: Store leftover Garlic Shrimp Mofongo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the mofongo (without shrimp) in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat the mofongo on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Heat the garlic shrimp separately in a skillet until warmed through.

Serving Tip: For the best texture and taste, serve the mofongo warm, topped with the reheated garlic shrimp and sauce just before enjoying!

Expert Tips for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo

Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure the plantains fry evenly and achieve that perfect golden color.

Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Keep an eye on the shrimp as they cook; they should become pink and opaque, which means they’re perfectly tender—not tough from overcooking.

Flavor Boosting: Experiment with spices like cayenne pepper or cumin in the garlic shrimp mixture to tailor the flavor profile of your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo to your taste.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and ripe plantains for the best flavor results; they significantly elevate the dish’s overall taste and authenticity.

Texture Matters: When mashing the plantains, maintain a slightly chunky consistency for an interesting texture contrast with the shrimp.

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the mofongo in advance and reheat for a convenient meal option; just store the shrimp and sauce separately to preserve texture.

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Variations

Feel free to sprinkle in your own creativity and tweak this delicious recipe to suit your taste!

Seafood Swap: Replace shrimp with scallops for a delightful twist on the protein; their sweetness pairs beautifully with garlic.
Meaty Option: Swap in chicken for a heartier alternative; just ensure it’s cooked through for a satisfying balance.
Spice it Up: Add a dash of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the shrimp for an enticing kick that brings the dish to life.
Vegetarian Delight: Substitute shrimp and chicken broth with sautéed mushrooms and vegetable broth for a flavorful, plant-based option that shines.
Tangy Twist: Opt for lemon juice instead of lime for a brighter, slightly different citrus flavor that still awakens the dish’s profile.
Herb Change: If cilantro isn’t your favorite, try fresh parsley or even basil for a unique flavor touch and stunning garnish.
Add More Crunch: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or chopped nuts of your choice to add a delightful crunch to every bite.
Delicious Dipping Sauce: Serve alongside a spicy garlic aioli; it complements the dish and encourages dipping fun, much like our Garlic Butter Steak.

These variations will help you embrace your culinary creativity, making your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo uniquely yours!

What to Serve with Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?

Elevate your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo experience with complementary sides and drinks that perfectly balance its vibrant flavors and textures.

Avocado Salad: This creamy salad adds richness while providing a refreshing contrast to the savory mofongo and garlic shrimp.
Mixed Greens: A simple side of greens tossed with a light vinaigrette enhances the dish’s flavors and adds a delightful crunch.
Coconut Rice: Serve with slightly sweet coconut rice for a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the garlic and shrimp’s savory profile.
Fried Plantains: Go for double the plantains! Crispy tostones offer a satisfying crunch and make a familiar pairing that echoes traditional flavors.
Pico de Gallo: Fresh, zesty pico de gallo brightens each bite, enhancing the flavors of the shrimp while providing a refreshing texture.
Margaritas: Sip on a refreshing margarita for the perfect cocktail pairing; its acidity complements the rich and garlicky sauce beautifully.
Flan: End your meal on a sweet note with a creamy flan, providing a light finish that contrasts nicely with the savory main course.

Garlic Shrimp Mofongo Recipe FAQs

What type of plantains should I use for Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Absolutely! For this recipe, you should use very ripe green plantains. Look for plantains that are firm to the touch and have a bright green color. Avoid those with dark spots, as they will be overly sweet and not suitable for this savory dish.

How do I store leftover Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Very easily! To keep your Garlic Shrimp Mofongo fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully while preserving the essence of the dish.

Can I freeze Garlic Shrimp Mofongo?
Certainly! For long-term storage, freeze the mofongo (without the shrimp) in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. To thaw, simply place it in the fridge overnight. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little chicken broth or water to keep it moist.

What if my shrimp are tough after cooking?
Oh no! If shrimp turn out tough, it’s usually a sign they’ve been overcooked. To ensure tender shrimp in future preparations, cook them just until they turn pink and opaque—no more than 3-4 minutes. If you notice they’re turning gray, you may need to adjust your cooking time in the future.

Is Garlic Shrimp Mofongo suitable for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. If you have any specific allergies, be cautious with the butter (which can be omitted for a dairy-free version) and ensure your broth is gluten-free. Feel free to modify the recipe based on your dietary needs!

Can I make Garlic Shrimp Mofongo ahead of time?
Very much so! You can prepare the mofongo in advance and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to keep it separate from the shrimp and sauce to maintain texture. Reheat when ready to serve, and drizzle the shrimp over the top for a fresh meal that feels just made!