Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the creamy garlic sauce, a rich aroma wafted through my kitchen, wrapping around me like a warm hug. There’s something undeniably comforting about making Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes, and it quickly transforms an ordinary weeknight into a culinary adventure. Tender, paprika-kissed shrimp basking in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce—this dish is not only a comforting indulgence but also a breeze to whip up in under an hour! Perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself after a long day, this easy yet luxurious meal offers the ultimate escape from fast food. Best of all, it has the potential for a vegan adaptation, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful comfort food. Are you ready to savor a plateful of joy? Why is this recipe a crowd-pleaser? Convenience: This recipe for Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes is a simple yet luxurious dish that comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Indulgent Flavor: The rich combination of garlic, creamy Parmesan sauce, and tender shrimp creates a decadent experience that will impress both family and guests alike. Versatile: This dish can easily be adapted for different diets—consider swapping the shrimp for chicken or tofu, and you can make it vegan by using plant-based cream and cheese. Comfort Food: There’s nothing like a comforting plate of buttery mashed potatoes topped with flavorful shrimp, delivering nostalgic tastes that remind you of home-cooked meals. Elevate your dining experience further with a side of Garlic Butter Shrimp or try some Smashed Potatoes Garlic for a perfect pairing! Creamy Garlic Shrimp Ingredients Get ready to create a savory sensation! For the Mashed Potatoes Yukon Gold or Russet Potatoes – Ideal for a creamy texture, making them the perfect base for buttery mashed potatoes. Butter – Adds richness; go for unsalted to better control your dish’s seasoning. Milk (warmed) – Ensures a creamy consistency when blended; feel free to substitute with plant-based milk for a vegan option. For the Shrimp Shrimp (peeled and deveined) – The main protein that brings delicate flavor, whether fresh or thawed from frozen. Olive Oil – Tossed with shrimp before cooking to enhance flavor and assist with searing. Paprika and Garlic Powder – These seasonings elevate the shrimp’s flavor; use smoked paprika for a bold twist. Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing overall flavor to your liking. For the Creamy Sauce Butter (for the sauce) – Creates that velvety creamy texture essential for the garlic sauce. Minced Garlic – The aromatic backbone of the sauce; fresh garlic is best for deep, rich flavor. Heavy Cream – A luxurious base for the sauce; can swap with coconut cream for a lighter, vegan-friendly alternative. Parmesan Cheese – Adds depth and richness to the sauce; nutritional yeast works well for a vegan variation. Dijon Mustard (optional) – A touch of tang that enhances the sauce flavor. Fresh Thyme – A lovely garnish that amplifies both flavor and presentation. Now that you have all the ingredients for a truly unforgettable Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes, let’s dive into the cooking process and create a delightful culinary experience! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes Step 1: Boil the Potatoes Start by peeling and cubing about 2 pounds of Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold, salted water, and bring to a boil over high heat. Allow them to simmer for about 15 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain the potatoes, then return them to the pot off the heat to keep them warm while you prepare the rest of the dish. Step 2: Mash the Potatoes Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and about 1/2 cup of warmed milk to the drained potatoes. Use a potato masher or a ricer to mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and keep the mashed potatoes warm by covering the pot with a lid or a clean kitchen towel while you cook the shrimp. Step 3: Prepare the Shrimp In a mixing bowl, toss 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set them aside. Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce In the same skillet used for the shrimp, reduce the heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Then, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly. Step 5: Combine Sauce Ingredients Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and optional 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard into the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste and let it simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes until it reaches your desired thickness. The creamy garlic sauce will be silky and rich, perfect to complement the shrimp. Step 6: Assemble and Serve To plate the dish, scoop a generous portion of the buttery mashed potatoes onto each plate. Top with the succulent shrimp, then drizzle the creamy garlic sauce generously over everything. Garnish with fresh thyme for an aromatic touch. Serve your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes immediately and relish in the comforting flavors you’ve created! What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes Indulge in a complete mealtime experience that complements the decadence of buttery shrimp and creamy sauce. Garlic Butter Asparagus: Crisp-tender asparagus lightly sautéed in garlic butter adds a vibrant crunch and freshness to each bite. Its subtle earthy flavor pairs beautifully with the richness of the shrimp. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted to golden perfection, these sprouts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the creamy texture of the mashed potatoes. Toss them with balsamic glaze for an extra kick! Classic Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar brings brightness and herbaceous notes to your meal. The crunchy croutons and creamy dressing will balance the richness of the shrimp while keeping things refreshing. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned rice pilaf infused with fresh herbs makes for a delightful pairing. Its fluffy texture and mild flavor allow the shrimp’s robust sauce to shine. Sourdough Bread: Serve warm, crusty sourdough to soak up any leftover sauce. The tangy, chewy bread complements the creamy garlic sauce perfectly for an unmissable experience. Pinot Grigio: A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio enhances the dish with its crisp acidity, cutting through the richness while echoing the subtle garlic notes in the shrimp. These pairings will elevate your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes into a culinary celebration that your loved ones will savor till the last bite! How to Store and Freeze Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes Fridge: Store leftover Creamy Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk if the potatoes seem dry. Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the shrimp and sauce (not the mashed potatoes) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the shrimp and sauce gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. Pair with freshly made mashed potatoes for the best taste! Room Temperature: Aim to consume any leftovers promptly; don’t leave the dish out for more than 2 hours to ensure quality and safety. Make Ahead Options These Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to save valuable time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the mashed potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. Simply boil, mash with butter and warmed milk, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain their creamy texture, reheat the potatoes gently with a splash of milk before serving. The shrimp can also be seasoned and cooked up to 3 days ahead; just refrigerate them in a sealed container. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, quickly reheat the shrimp in a skillet and prepare the creamy sauce, drizzling it over the warm mashed potatoes for a delightful finish. This makes for an effortlessly delicious dinner with minimal effort! Expert Tips for Creamy Garlic Shrimp Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure you cook shrimp in batches if necessary. Overcrowding prevents even cooking and can lead to steaming rather than searing. Warm Your Milk: Using cold milk can lead to lumpy mashed potatoes. Heat it slightly before mixing it with the potatoes for a smooth, creamy texture. Fresh is Best: Opt for fresh minced garlic in your sauce to achieve a more robust flavor. Dried garlic powder can lose potency, so go fresh if you can! Adjust for Thickness: If your creamy sauce seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of broth or more cream to achieve your desired consistency. Make It Vegan: Swap heavy cream and Parmesan with coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a delicious vegan adaptation of the creamy garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes. Prep Ahead: For an even quicker dinner, prepare the mashed potatoes in advance. Simply reheat with a bit of milk to restore creaminess before serving. Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes Variations Feel free to explore these delightful twists on your creamy garlic shrimp dish, inviting all sorts of flavors and dietary options to the table! Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different take. Sauté until golden brown for a satisfying alternative. Spice Infusion: Add a pinch of red chili flakes to the sauce for a delightful kick. This twist will bring warmth without overwhelming the dish. Herb Medley: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill, basil, or parsley in the creamy sauce for added freshness. Each herb brings a unique note to the overall flavor! Sweet Potato Base: Choose sweet potatoes instead of regular for a subtly sweet and vibrant mash. Their natural sweetness creates a wonderful contrast with the creamy sauce. Vegan Delight: Make a complete vegan meal by using plant-based cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. The richness remains without any dairy! Citrusy Twist: A splash of lemon juice or lime zest in the creamy sauce adds a refreshing citrus note. It enhances the shrimp’s natural flavors beautifully! Umami Boost: Stir in a teaspoon of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce in your creamy sauce for an umami kick. It adds depth and richness you’ll love! For those who enjoy pairing their dishes, consider complementing your meal with Cheesy Ranch Potatoes or indulge in a serving of Garlic Butter Shrimp as a side! Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best shrimp for this recipe? Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for those labeled “wild-caught” or “farm-raised” instead of “imported” for the best quality. Fresh shrimp should have a mild ocean scent and be firm to the touch. If using frozen, ensure they are peeled and deveined; allow them to thaw overnight in the refrigerator for optimal texture. What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store any leftover Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently to ensure the potatoes don’t become gummy. A splash of milk can restore their creaminess! Can I freeze this dish? Certainly! To freeze, separate the shrimp and the mashed potatoes. Place the shrimp and creamy sauce in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat slowly on the stove, stirring gently. How do I avoid rubbery shrimp? Very! To prevent rubbery shrimp, make sure not to overcook them. Cook for just 2-3 minutes per side over medium-high heat until they’re pink and opaque. If they are overcooked, they will become chewy, so keeping an eye on them is key! Is this dish suitable for someone with dairy allergies? Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for dairy allergies. Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast, which creates a similar umami flavor without the dairy. Always check the labels to ensure no hidden dairy ingredients. How can I keep the mashed potatoes smooth and creamy? To ensure smooth and creamy mashed potatoes, start by warming your milk before adding it to the potatoes. Avoid over-mashing, which can turn them gluey; instead, mash just until creamy. Keeping them warm after mashing and tightly covered will help maintain their velvety texture until serving. Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes – Pure Comfort Magic Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes is a simple, luxurious dish perfect for busy weeknights, offering indulgent flavors and comforting textures. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Mashed Potatoes2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet Potatoes Ideal for a creamy texture4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Adds richness1/2 cup Warmed Milk Substitute with plant-based milk for vegan optionFor the Shrimp1 pound Peeled and Deveined Shrimp Can be fresh or thawed from frozen1 tablespoon Olive Oil Enhances flavor1 teaspoon Paprika Use smoked paprika for bold flavor1 teaspoon Garlic PowderSalt To tastePepper To tasteFor the Creamy Sauce2 tablespoons Butter Creates velvety texture4 cloves Minced Garlic Fresh is best for flavor1 cup Heavy Cream Can swap with coconut cream for vegan option1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast works for vegan variation1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Optional for added flavorFresh Thyme For garnish Equipment Large PotMixing bowlSkilletPotato Masher Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPeel and cube the potatoes, cover with cold salted water, and bring to a boil. Simmer for 15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and return to pot.Add butter and warmed milk to potatoes. Mash until smooth, season with salt and pepper, and keep warm covered.Toss shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat skillet and cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes each side until pink and opaque. Set aside.In the same skillet, melt butter, add minced garlic, and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream, stir, and bring to a simmer.Stir in Parmesan and Dijon mustard, season, and simmer for 3-5 minutes until thickened.Plate mashed potatoes, top with shrimp, drizzle creamy sauce, and garnish with thyme. Serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 180mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesFor a vegan option, substitute heavy cream and Parmesan with coconut cream and nutritional yeast. Prepare mashed potatoes in advance for quicker dinner service. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!