Print

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 347 reviews

A decadent and comforting dish featuring juicy seared shrimp simmered in a rich and creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, served over silky smooth Yukon Gold mashed potatoes. This meal balances bold flavors of garlic, nutmeg, and fresh herbs with the creamy texture of potatoes and sauce, perfect for an elegant yet easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Shrimp:

  • 1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined (16–20 count works best)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for searing
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Mashed Potatoes:

  • 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 4 tablespoons butter, salted or unsalted
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or plant-based cream)
  • Salt to taste (start with 1 teaspoon)
  • 1/4 teaspoon white pepper (optional)

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, freshly minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • Fresh cracked black pepper to taste
  • Pinch of nutmeg

Optional Garnish:

  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • Pinch of red chili flakes for heat
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra Parmesan for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Fill a large pot with cold water and add a generous pinch of salt. Add the peeled and cubed Yukon Gold potatoes. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 12-15 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.
  2. Season the Shrimp: While the potatoes cook, pat the shrimp dry thoroughly with paper towels. Season them evenly with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
  3. Sear the Shrimp: When potatoes have about 5 minutes left, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with 1 tablespoon olive oil until shimmering. Add shrimp in a single layer without overcrowding. Sear for about 2 minutes per side until pink and lightly golden. Remove shrimp to a plate and set aside.
  4. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: Using the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Pour in heavy cream and broth, whisking to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, then gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Add a pinch of nutmeg and cracked black pepper. Adjust salt to taste.
  5. Mash the Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes well. Return them to the hot pot, add 4 tablespoons butter and let melt. Pour in 1/2 cup heavy cream and mash until smooth and creamy, being careful not to overwork to avoid gluey texture. Season with salt and white pepper if using.
  6. Combine and Finish: Return shrimp to the skillet with the creamy garlic sauce. Let them simmer together for 2-3 minutes until shrimp are fully cooked and coated beautifully in the sauce.
  7. Serve: Spoon the creamy mashed potatoes onto plates and top with the garlic shrimp and sauce. Garnish with fresh thyme, parsley, red chili flakes, and extra Parmesan as desired. Enjoy immediately.

Notes

  • Patting the shrimp dry before searing is crucial to get a good golden crust.
  • Use Yukon Gold potatoes for creamier mashed potatoes; Russets can be used but will be less creamy.
  • Mincing fresh garlic adds the best flavor; avoid letting garlic burn to prevent bitterness.
  • Don’t overwork mashed potatoes to avoid gummy texture.
  • Nutmeg in the sauce adds a subtle warmth and depth—don’t skip it!
  • You can substitute plant-based cream and nutritional yeast for a vegan version.
  • Extra garnishes like fresh herbs and chili flakes elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise.

Keywords: Creamy garlic shrimp, mashed potatoes, garlic cream sauce, seared shrimp, easy dinner, comfort food, seafood dinner

Find it online: https://thehungrymason.com/creamy-garlic-shrimp-over-mashed-potatoes-recipe/