If you’re craving something indulgent yet easy to prepare, Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes is a dish that checks all the boxes. It brings together juicy shrimp, a velvety garlic-infused cream sauce, and soft, buttery mashed potatoes for a meal that feels restaurant-worthy but comes together right in your kitchen. The balance of flavors—the sweetness of shrimp, the savory richness of garlic cream, and the smooth comfort of mashed potatoes—makes every bite deeply satisfying. This dish is perfect for both special occasions and cozy weeknight dinners. I once tried swapping regular milk with almond milk in the mashed potatoes, and the result was just as creamy with a slightly nutty twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because it’s the perfect mix of comfort and sophistication. The garlic cream sauce wraps each shrimp in flavor, and when served over creamy mashed potatoes, it becomes a meal that feels indulgent without being heavy. It’s quick, elegant, and sure to impress anyone you serve it to.
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Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes – A Luxurious Comfort Meal
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A rich and comforting dish featuring succulent shrimp coated in a creamy garlic sauce, served over buttery mashed potatoes for the perfect indulgent meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared with butter and milk)
Instructions
- Pat shrimp dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously until smooth and thickened.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is creamy.
- Return shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Serve shrimp and sauce over a generous scoop of mashed potatoes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
- Use Yukon gold or russet potatoes for the creamiest mash.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Shrimp
Large, fresh shrimp are best for this recipe. They cook quickly and absorb the creamy sauce beautifully, providing a soft yet slightly firm bite.
Butter
Butter gives the sauce its silky texture and rich base. Use unsalted butter so you can control the seasoning perfectly.
Garlic
Fresh minced garlic is essential. It infuses the sauce with aroma and flavor, complementing the cream without overpowering it.
Heavy Cream
This creates the luscious, thick sauce that makes the dish irresistible. You can use half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce will be thinner.
Parmesan Cheese
Adds a salty, nutty depth and naturally thickens the sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan works best.
Mashed Potatoes
Soft and buttery, mashed potatoes form the perfect foundation for the shrimp and sauce. Make them with butter, milk, and a touch of salt for a creamy texture.
Olive Oil
Used to sear the shrimp to perfection. It adds a subtle fruitiness that balances the richness of the sauce.
Parsley
Fresh parsley brightens the dish, adding a fresh herbal note that balances the creaminess.
Salt and Pepper
The simplest yet most vital seasonings. Season the shrimp and the sauce in layers for the best flavor.
Directions
Start by making the mashed potatoes. Boil peeled, diced potatoes in salted water until soft, about 15 minutes. Drain well and mash them with butter, warm milk, salt, and pepper until smooth. Keep them warm while you prepare the shrimp.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season lightly with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 2 minutes on each side, just until they turn pink and lightly golden. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
In the same pan, melt another tablespoon of butter and add the minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir, allowing it to simmer gently for about 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Add Parmesan cheese and whisk until smooth and creamy.
Return the shrimp to the pan, coating them evenly in the sauce. Let everything simmer for another minute so the flavors blend beautifully. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
To serve, spoon mashed potatoes onto a plate and top with creamy garlic shrimp. Garnish with chopped parsley for color and freshness.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people generously. Preparation time: 15 minutes. Cooking time: 25 minutes. Total time: 40 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life. Avoid overcooking the shrimp during reheating to keep them tender.
Variations and Customizations
Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Add a squeeze of lemon juice and zest to the sauce for a refreshing, tangy twist.
Spicy Cajun Style
Mix in a teaspoon of Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes for a bold, spicy kick.
Dairy-Free Delight
Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free alternative that’s still rich and flavorful.
Cheesy Upgrade
Add extra mozzarella or Gruyère cheese for an ultra-creamy, cheesy finish.
Herb Infusion
Try adding thyme, basil, or dill for a deeper, aromatic flavor.
Garlic-Lemon Mashed Potatoes
Add roasted garlic and a hint of lemon zest to the mashed potatoes for a zesty upgrade.
Veggie Mash
Swap the mashed potatoes for mashed cauliflower or a potato-parsnip blend for a lighter, healthier version.
Mushroom Cream Sauce
Stir in sautéed mushrooms to add an earthy dimension to the sauce.
Bacon Lovers’ Version
Top with crispy bacon bits for a smoky, savory crunch.
White Wine Finish
Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding the cream for extra depth and sophistication.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them fully and pat them dry before cooking.
2. What kind of potatoes should I use?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes.
3. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, though the sauce will be lighter and less rich. Half-and-half is a great middle ground.
4. How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking?
Cook just until pink and opaque—about 2 minutes per side is perfect.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients, including cheese and cream, are gluten-free certified.
6. Can I prepare it ahead of time?
You can make the mashed potatoes ahead, but cook the shrimp fresh for best texture.
7. What side dishes go well with it?
Green beans, steamed asparagus, or a fresh salad pair beautifully with this dish.
8. Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
Yes, spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes add great texture and flavor.
9. How do I thicken the sauce?
Simmer a bit longer or add more Parmesan cheese until it reaches your desired consistency.
10. Can I freeze leftovers?
You can, but it’s best fresh. If freezing, thaw slowly and reheat gently to avoid curdling the sauce.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes is a dish that combines elegance with pure comfort. The buttery potatoes, tender shrimp, and rich garlic sauce come together in perfect harmony, making every forkful an indulgent treat. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner or a cozy family meal, this recipe delivers warmth and sophistication in every bite. Once you’ve tried it, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen rotation.