Name: Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American / Fusion
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled & deveined; 4 large potatoes, peeled & chunked; 4 tbsp butter (divided); 1/2 cup heavy cream (mashed potatoes); 1/4 cup milk (mashed potatoes); 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup heavy cream (sauce); 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt & pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (garnish)

If you’ve ever craved the perfect mix of indulgence and comfort, this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes is exactly what you need. Imagine plump, juicy shrimp bathed in a luscious garlic cream sauce, all nestled on a cloud of buttery, fluffy mashed potatoes. Each bite is a warm hug for your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special or a show-stopping centerpiece for a weekend gathering, this dish delivers every time. I still remember the first time I made it—on a rainy Sunday afternoon—the aroma of garlic and butter filled my kitchen, and by the first forkful, I knew it was a keeper.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Luxuriously Creamy & Flavor-Packed

The sauce in this recipe is the star of the show—silky smooth, with a gentle richness from heavy cream and Parmesan. The garlic infuses every bite without overpowering, striking a perfect balance between savory depth and light, creamy comfort.

Easy & Quick to Make

You can have this on the table in just 40 minutes, start to finish. There’s no complicated prep or tricky techniques—just simple, satisfying cooking you can enjoy even on busy weeknights.

Comfort Food with a Touch of Elegance

While it’s hearty and homey enough for a weeknight, the presentation makes it feel restaurant-worthy. The contrast of golden shrimp over creamy potatoes looks as good as it tastes.

Customizable for Your Taste

Love a little heat? Sprinkle in red pepper flakes. Want it cheesier? Add extra Parmesan. You can even swap shrimp for scallops or chicken for a different twist—this recipe is as flexible as your cravings.

Ingredients

Full List of Ingredients for Mashed Potatoes

4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks – the base of your creamy mash.
2 tablespoon butter – adds richness and a silky texture.
½ cup heavy cream – makes the mash indulgently smooth.
¼ cup milk – helps adjust consistency without diluting flavor.
Salt & pepper, to taste – for balanced seasoning.

Full List of Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Shrimp

1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined – juicy, tender protein.
2 tablespoon olive oil – for searing the shrimp to golden perfection.
4 garlic cloves, minced – fragrant and flavorful base for the sauce.
1 cup heavy cream – creates that luxurious sauce.
½ cup chicken broth – adds depth and keeps sauce light enough to pour.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – provides savory, nutty undertones.
2 tablespoon butter – enriches the sauce and adds gloss.
Fresh parsley, chopped – for a pop of color and freshness.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Large saucepan – for boiling potatoes until fork-tender.
Skillet – ideal for cooking shrimp and preparing the sauce in one pan.
Potato masher – to get that fluffy texture.
Cutting board – for prepping garlic and parsley.
Sharp knife – for precise, easy chopping.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

There’s something so satisfying about seeing this dish come together—the creamy potatoes, the golden shrimp, and that silky garlic sauce. Let’s walk through it step-by-step so you can enjoy the same delicious results.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Boil the potatoes until fork-tender (about 15 minutes).
Place your peeled potato chunks into a large pot of salted water. Bring it to a gentle boil and cook until a fork slides in effortlessly. This ensures your mash will be smooth, not grainy.
Mash with butter, heavy cream, and milk.
Drain the potatoes well, then mash them while still hot with butter, cream, and milk. This is when the magic happens—the butter melts in, the cream blends smoothly, and you get that dreamy texture.
Season to taste and keep warm.
Add salt and pepper to your liking. Cover and keep them warm so they stay fluffy while you finish the shrimp.
Cook the shrimp in olive oil.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Sauté garlic, then add cream and chicken broth.
In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for just a minute—enough to release the fragrance without burning it. Pour in the cream and chicken broth.
Simmer until thickened, then stir in Parmesan.
Let the sauce bubble gently for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once slightly thickened, add Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts into a velvety sauce.
Return the shrimp to the skillet.
Add your cooked shrimp back in, tossing to coat them generously with sauce.
Plate and garnish.
Spoon a generous scoop of mashed potatoes onto each plate, top with shrimp and sauce, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Tips for Each Step

Avoid overcooking shrimp—they can turn rubbery fast.
Warm the milk before adding to the potatoes for a smoother mash.
For an extra burst of freshness, add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.

What to Serve with This Recipe

The beauty of this dish is that it already feels like a full, indulgent meal, but a few thoughtful sides can really make it shine:

Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up every last drop of sauce.
Roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli – A crisp, green contrast to the creamy richness.
A crisp white wine – Something like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to balance the flavors.

Variations and Substitutions

Lighter Version

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a sauce that’s still creamy but with a lighter touch.

Spicy Kick

Add a pinch of chili flakes to the garlic as it sautés for gentle heat in every bite.

Vegetarian Twist

Swap shrimp for sautéed mushrooms or roasted cauliflower for a hearty, meat-free option that still delivers on flavor.

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature Storage

This dish is at its best fresh from the pan—creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and fluffy potatoes all piping hot. If you’re serving family-style, aim to enjoy it right away and avoid leaving it out for more than 2 hours.

Refrigeration Tips

If you have leftovers, transfer them into an airtight container once cooled. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s silky texture.

Freezing Instructions

Shrimp doesn’t freeze as well once cooked, but mashed potatoes are freezer-friendly. Store them separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in a saucepan with a bit of butter or cream to restore that fluffy consistency.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Use fresh shrimp whenever possible—its sweetness and tenderness elevate the dish.
Heavy cream creates the richest, most luxurious sauce, but you can lighten it with half-and-half if needed.
Taste and adjust seasoning just before serving—potatoes and cream can mellow flavors, so a final pinch of salt or pepper makes all the difference.
Don’t rush the sauce—a gentle simmer helps flavors meld and gives the perfect thickness.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes, you might enjoy:

Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce – similar creamy garlic flavor profile.
Creamy Garlic and Herb Mashed Potatoes – mashed potato tips and variations.
Southern Fried Cabbage with Shrimp – another shrimp-based comfort dish.
Seafood Lasagna – seafood lovers’ alternative.
Easy Creamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes – creamy garlic sauce technique.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Absolutely. Just remember to cut back on any additional salt you add later.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess water in the pan.

What potatoes are best for mashed potatoes?

Yukon Gold potatoes give a naturally buttery flavor, while Russets whip up extra fluffy—either works beautifully here.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the mashed potatoes and sauce separately, then reheat gently before serving. Cook the shrimp fresh for the best texture.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes is the kind of recipe that feels special without being fussy. It’s rich yet balanced, comforting yet elegant, and endlessly adaptable to your tastes. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy night in or as a centerpiece for guests, it’s a dish that earns every “wow” at the table. If you make this, share your creation with us—we’d love to see your take on this creamy, garlicky, irresistible classic.