Ultimate Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes
This buttery, golden garlic shrimp transforms into pure comfort food magic when ladled over a cloud of creamy mashed potatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Boil the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot of generously salted water until they’re fork-tender, about 15-18 minutes. Meanwhile, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper in a bowl.
- Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the hot pot. Add warm milk and butter, then mash until smooth and fluffy.
- Sear the seasoned shrimp in a large, hot skillet for just 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Transfer to a plate once done.
- Melt butter in the same skillet over medium heat, then add minced garlic and sauté for about 30-45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer, and let it reduce slightly for about 2 minutes.
- Whisk in Parmesan cheese and optional Dijon mustard until smooth. Season with salt and pepper, then return the shrimp to the skillet just long enough to warm them through.
- Serve by creating a generous bed of the mashed potatoes on each plate, topping with shrimp, and spooning the creamy garlic sauce over everything.
Notes
- Pat shrimp completely dry: Removing all surface moisture ensures your shrimp develop a beautiful golden sear.
- Warm your dairy ingredients: Using room-temperature or slightly warmed milk and butter prevents the mashed potatoes from cooling too quickly.
- Build flavor layers: Using the same skillet for shrimp and sauce captures all those delicious browned bits infusing the creamy garlic sauce with exceptional depth.
- Watch garlic closely: Cook garlic just until fragrant, but not browned.
- Rest before serving: Allowing the sauce to sit for 1-2 minutes lets the Parmesan fully incorporate.