Creamy Garlic Shrimp Mashed

This creamy garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes is a comforting dish that never fails to satisfy. The shrimp swim in a luscious garlic cream sauce and rest on a bed of perfectly fluffy mashed potatoes that soak up every bit of flavor. It’s simple enough for weeknights yet special enough to serve guests.

I first tried this recipe when craving a homestyle meal with a bit of luxury and it instantly became a favorite in my kitchen. The blend of garlic and Parmesan in the sauce brings out the best in the shrimp while the potatoes add that welcoming warmth.

Ingredients You Need

• Large shrimp: peeled and deveined, provide succulent protein—choose fresh or frozen but thawed properly for the best texture
• Large potatoes: peeled and chunked deliver a creamy base—Russets or Yukon Golds work particularly well for mashing
• Butter: adds richness to both mashed potatoes and sauce—use unsalted so you control salt levels
• Heavy cream and milk: for silky mashed potatoes—whole milk or cream adds the perfect smoothness
• Olive oil: for sautéing offers a subtle fruity note and helps cook shrimp evenly
• Minced garlic: is essential for that fragrant punch in the sauce—fresh cloves are best
• Chicken broth: adds depth to the creamy sauce—use low sodium if you prefer lighter seasoning
• Grated Parmesan cheese: melts into the sauce, lending savory umami flavor
• Salt and pepper: for seasoning to taste
• Fresh parsley: chopped as garnish adds freshness and color

Detailed Cooking Directions

Build The Mashed Potato Base:

Boil the peeled and chunked potatoes in salted water until fork-tender about 15 minutes. Drain well then mash with 2 tablespoons butter, half a cup of heavy cream, and a quarter cup of milk until creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper and keep warm.

Cook The Shrimp:

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside to prevent overcooking.

Prepare The Garlic Cream Sauce:

In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and sauté the minced garlic for about a minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes to slightly thicken.

Combine And Finish:

Stir the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce until melted and smooth. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss gently to coat them thoroughly with the creamy garlic sauce.

Serve It Up:

Spoon the mashed potatoes onto plates and evenly distribute the creamy garlic shrimp on top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright finish.

I love how the shrimp turns out tender and flavorful every time while the creamy garlic sauce feels like a little indulgence. Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley always brightens the entire plate for me.

Smart Storage Tips

Store leftover shrimp separately from mashed potatoes to keep textures intact. Reheat gently on low heat or in the microwave with a splash of cream to restore sauce consistency. Mashed potatoes reheat nicely with a pat of butter and a stir to bring back creaminess

Ingredient Variations

Swap shrimp for scallops or chunks of cooked chicken for a new protein twist. Try using Greek yogurt instead of cream in the sauce for a tangy richness with fewer calories. Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra earthiness and nutrition

Perfect Pairing Ideas

Serve with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through richness. A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc complements the garlic and cream beautifully. Steamed asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts are excellent vegetable sides that add color and crunch

This recipe became a go-to comfort meal in my family especially when weeks felt hectic. The simplicity paired with rich flavors always felt like a small celebration around the dinner table.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I ensure the shrimp is cooked perfectly?

Cook shrimp 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.

→ Can I substitute heavy cream for a lighter option?

Yes, half-and-half can be used instead of heavy cream for a lighter, less rich sauce without compromising flavor.

→ What type of potatoes work best for mashing?

Starchy potatoes like Russets yield fluffy mashed potatoes that absorb cream and butter well.

→ How can I adjust the garlic flavor to my taste?

Feel free to increase or reduce the minced garlic when sautéing, depending on how pronounced you want the garlic taste.

→ Is it necessary to use chicken broth in the sauce?

Chicken broth adds depth to the sauce, but vegetable broth or water can be used if preferred for a lighter flavor.