Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

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Succulent shrimp bathed in a velvety garlic cream sauce, nestled over a bed of buttery mashed potatoes—it’s comfort food taken to an entirely new level. This dish isn’t just dinner; it’s a luxurious experience that feels restaurant-worthy yet is surprisingly simple to make at home. The creamy garlic sauce wraps each shrimp in flavor, while the mashed potatoes act as the perfect fluffy sponge to soak it all in.

Whether you’re planning a cozy date night, an impressive dinner for guests, or just want to treat yourself to something indulgent on a weeknight, Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes is a dish that delivers on flavor and comfort. Rich, herby, and deeply satisfying, it’s one of those meals that will have everyone going back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

• Decadent yet easy: You don’t need a culinary degree to whip this up—just a skillet, a pot, and 30 minutes.
• Flavorful layers: The garlic cream sauce enhances the sweetness of the shrimp, while the mashed potatoes balance it with savory goodness.
• Perfect for any occasion: This meal is elegant enough for guests but quick enough for weeknights.
• Customizable: Add bacon bits, spinach, or a touch of lemon to make it your own.

What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

For best results, use large or jumbo raw shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Fresh is great if you have access, but frozen shrimp works perfectly too—just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry to avoid watering down the sauce. Tail-on shrimp can add a pretty presentation, but tail-off is more convenient for eating.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

Each ingredient in this dish has a purpose—bringing together rich flavors and creamy textures to make every bite unforgettable.

• Shrimp – The star of the dish. Choose large or jumbo shrimp for a meatier bite and more dramatic presentation.
• Heavy cream – Creates the rich, luscious sauce that clings to the shrimp and seeps into the mashed potatoes.
• Garlic – Provides bold, aromatic flavor that defines the sauce.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty depth and helps thicken the sauce naturally.
• Butter – Used for sautéing and enriching both the sauce and mashed potatoes.
• Olive oil – Helps get that perfect sear on the shrimp.
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme) – Infuse freshness and an earthy touch.
• Mashed potatoes – Creamy and comforting, they serve as the perfect base for the saucy shrimp.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for balancing and enhancing all the other flavors.
• Red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a gentle kick for those who like a bit of heat.

How To Make the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Peel, devein, and pat dry your shrimp. Season them lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and sear for about 1–2 minutes per side until they’re just cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in heavy cream, then stir in Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer and thicken for 3–5 minutes.

Step 4: Return the Shrimp

Add the shrimp back into the sauce and sprinkle in your chopped herbs. Simmer gently for another 2 minutes to coat the shrimp and marry the flavors.

Step 5: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the sauce simmers, whip up mashed potatoes using butter, cream, salt, and a bit of garlic or herbs if you like. They should be creamy and smooth.

Step 6: Plate and Serve

Spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto each plate, top with the creamy garlic shrimp, and drizzle extra sauce over the top. Garnish with more herbs and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.

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How to Serve and Store This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

This dish is best served hot and fresh, right after it’s made, when the sauce is silky and the shrimp are perfectly tender. It serves 4 people generously, making it ideal for a family meal or a small dinner gathering.

If you have leftovers, store the shrimp and mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed. Be careful not to overheat the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.

What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes?

Garlic Bread

A crispy slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the leftover sauce.

Steamed Asparagus

Its slightly bitter bite complements the richness of the dish.

Mixed Greens Salad

A simple salad with a lemon vinaigrette can refresh the palate between bites.

Roasted Broccoli

Add some crunch and earthy flavor to your plate with roasted broccoli florets.

Sauteed Spinach

A garlicky sautéed spinach side keeps the flavor profile consistent and adds more greens to your plate.

Corn on the Cob

For a touch of sweetness and extra texture.

Chardonnay or White Wine Spritzer

A chilled glass of white wine can balance the creaminess of the sauce.

Lemon Wedges

A light squeeze of lemon over the shrimp brightens everything up.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water thinning out the sauce.

What kind of cream works best?

Heavy cream is the best choice for a rich and velvety sauce. Half-and-half can be used as a lighter alternative but will make the sauce less thick.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the mashed potatoes and even the sauce in advance, but it’s best to cook the shrimp just before serving to keep them juicy and tender.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Yes! You can substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use olive oil instead of butter. The flavor will change slightly but still be delicious.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra herbs or maybe a bit of spice? Did you serve it over cauliflower mash instead?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter and tastier meals.

Find more tasty ideas on my Pinterest: Meals We Share By Sally

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes is everything you crave in one comforting, elegant plate. It combines the richness of cream and garlic with the delicate flavor of shrimp, all grounded by fluffy mashed potatoes. Whether you’re entertaining or just need a new dinner idea, this recipe is a standout. Bookmark it, pin it, or share it—just don’t miss out on making it!

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