There’s just something irresistible about creamy garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes: it’s comforting, decadent, and surprisingly easy to make. For the Shrimp, tender bites float in a silky, garlicky sauce, all nestled on a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes—which makes every forkful pure bliss. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply elevate a weeknight, this dish wraps you up in warmth and bold flavor, delivering restaurant vibes at your dinner table.

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes – A Luxurious Comfort Food Classic - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients, but each one brings something essential to the party! From the succulence of For the Shrimp to the pillowy mashed potatoes and the rich, garlicky cream sauce, every element plays its part in building flavor, texture, or that finishing touch of color.

For the Shrimp: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined – get the freshest you can, so they’re juicy and sweet.
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons – adds a fruity, fragrant base for searing shrimp to golden perfection.
Paprika: 1 teaspoon – adds depth of color and a gentle smokiness that pairs beautifully with seafood.
Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon – amplifies that savory garlic punch in each bite of shrimp.
Salt and pepper: To taste – the all-important seasonings that balance and sharpen the flavor.
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce: 2 tablespoons butter – gives the sauce its luxuriously silky texture.
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced – nothing beats fresh garlic for bold, aromatic flavor.
Heavy cream: 1 cup – the foundation of a dreamy, rich sauce that hugs each shrimp.
Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, grated – adds nutty, salty umami to the sauce and helps it thicken.
Dijon mustard (optional): 1 teaspoon – a touch of tang that brightens the creaminess (but totally up to you).
Salt and pepper: To taste – rounds out the sauce and lets those garlic notes sing.
Fresh thyme leaves: For garnish – a scatter of green, aromatic freshness at the very end.
For the Mashed Potatoes: 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed – starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet are perfect here for ultra-creamy mash.
Warm milk: ½ cup – helps make the mash unbelievably smooth and fluffy.
Butter: ¼ cup – the key to rich, luscious mashed potatoes.
Salt: To taste – brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes.

How to Make For the Shrimp

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Start For the Shrimp by patting them dry with a paper towel—it’s a small move that really helps them sear beautifully. Toss them in a bowl with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Massage those spices in so every shrimp gets coated with flavor, then let them rest while you set up your sauce and potatoes.

Step 2: Make the Mashed Potatoes

Put your peeled, cubed potatoes in a big pot and cover with cold water plus a good pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer and cook until fork-tender, usually about 12–15 minutes. Drain well, then mash with butter and warm milk, adding salt until they taste like heaven. Keep them covered and warm while you move on to the main event.

Step 3: Sear For the Shrimp

Get a large skillet nice and hot (medium-high works well), and add a splash of olive oil. Place For the Shrimp in a single layer; don’t crowd the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for about 1–2 minutes per side—they should become pink and a little golden. Quickly remove them to a plate; they finish cooking in the sauce later to keep from turning rubbery.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, drop in the butter and minced garlic. Let the garlic sizzle gently for a minute until it’s fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream, then stir in the Parmesan and Dijon (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly—you want it to coat the back of a spoon and shimmer with richness.

Step 5: Bring It All Together For the Shrimp

Return For the Shrimp and any juices to the pan, nestling them into the sauce. Let them warm through for a minute or two; you want them perfectly cooked and bathed in garlicky creaminess. Give the sauce a taste—add more salt or a squeeze of lemon if you want extra brightness. Now you’re ready to build the ultimate bowl!

How to Serve For the Shrimp

Garnishes

The beauty of For the Shrimp is that just a scatter of fresh thyme leaves or a flurry of chopped parsley brings everything to life. Finish with a dusting of extra Parmesan or a twist of black pepper for color and depth. Even a hint of lemon zest on top can add a pop of brightness that makes each bite memorable.

Side Dishes

For the Shrimp already sits atop a creamy pile of potatoes, so all you really need is something fresh and crunchy on the side—a simple green salad with a tart vinaigrette balances out the richness. Steamed asparagus or bright green beans would also play nicely for a well-rounded, vibrant plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving For the Shrimp in a shallow bowl for that cozy “dinner out” vibe. Or, if you’re cooking for guests, pile the mashed potatoes on a platter, arrange the shrimp and sauce over top, then let everyone help themselves family-style. Little ramekins or mini Dutch ovens turn this into chic party fare—don’t forget a crusty piece of bread to swipe through the extra sauce!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, For the Shrimp and mashed potatoes can be cooled completely, then stored in airtight containers in the fridge. The flavors meld and intensify overnight, making for a next-day treat that’s just as satisfying as the original meal.

Freezing

For the Shrimp freeze better than you might think! Place shrimp and sauce in a freezer-safe container, and do the same with the mashed potatoes in a separate one. Freeze for up to two months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Cream sauces can separate a bit when frozen, but a gentle reheat brings everything back together.

Reheating

To reheat For the Shrimp, use a skillet over gentle heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce looks too thick, add a splash of cream or milk to revive its silkiness. Mashed potatoes reheat best with a touch more butter or milk mixed in. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp—they should just be heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for For the Shrimp?

Absolutely! Just thaw the shrimp thoroughly and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking, so you still get that wonderful golden sear without extra moisture in the pan.

What’s the best type of potato to use for mashed potatoes?

Starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet mash up extra creamy and smooth, which makes them the perfect bed for For the Shrimp and sauce. Avoid waxy varieties, which can end up a little gluey.

Is the Dijon mustard necessary in the sauce?

No worries if you’re not a mustard fan. The Dijon just adds a subtle tang to offset the richness, but the sauce is still fantastic without it. For the Shrimp shines with or without this extra note.

Can I make For the Shrimp dairy-free?

You can easily substitute plant-based butter and a cashew or coconut cream for the sauce, and swap out the Parmesan for nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese. It won’t be quite as decadent, but it will still be delicious and creamy.

How do I prevent the shrimp from getting rubbery?

Sear For the Shrimp just until pink and barely cooked through, then add them back to the sauce only to warm up. Overcooking is the enemy here—gentle handling keeps them tender and juicy every time.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll give For the Shrimp over mashed potatoes a spot on your dinner table soon. It’s one of those recipes that’s both simple and a total show-stopper, made for sharing (or just spoiling yourself). Dive in and enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes – A Luxurious Comfort Food Classic

★★★★★

5.1 from 20 reviews

Author: Ava
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Indulge in the luxurious comfort of Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes, a classic dish that combines succulent shrimp in a creamy garlic sauce served over fluffy mashed potatoes. This recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying texture.

Instructions

Cook the Shrimp: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season shrimp with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook shrimp until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper. Return cooked shrimp to the skillet and simmer for a few minutes until heated through.
Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Boil potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with warm milk, butter, and salt until smooth.
Serve: Spoon creamy garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and enjoy!

Notes

You can customize the level of garlic in the sauce to suit your taste preferences.
For extra richness, you can add a splash of white wine to the sauce.
Feel free to sprinkle some chopped parsley over the dish for added freshness.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American