This creamy garlic shrimp dish is pure comfort! Plump shrimp cooked in a rich garlic sauce make it a winner. And when you serve it over fluffy mashed potatoes, you’ll be in heaven.
Honestly, this meal feels so special, yet it’s super easy to whip up. I always add a sprinkle of parsley on top and pretend I’m a fancy chef! You’ll love how cozy it feels.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are perfect for mashing due to their starchy texture. If you don’t have russets, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes, which will give a slightly creamier mash.
Shrimp: Large, fresh shrimp are ideal! If you’re short on time, frozen shrimp work just fine—just make sure they’re thawed before cooking. You can also substitute shrimp with chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half, or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Some people also like adding cream cheese for extra creaminess!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for the flavor, but in a pinch, garlic powder can work. Just use a little less, as the powder is more potent.
Parmesan Cheese: While freshly grated is preferred, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free twist.
How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Texture in My Mashed Potatoes?
Mashed potatoes should be smooth and creamy! Here’s how to achieve that:
- Start with cold salted water when boiling the potatoes. This ensures even cooking.
- After mashing, gradually add warm milk or cream to avoid lumps.
- For an ultra-smooth texture, you can use a potato ricer if you have one!
Lastly, make sure to keep the mashed potatoes warm until serving. You can cover them with a lid or keep them in a warm oven to prevent cooling down before plating.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Served Over Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 pounds (about 4 large) russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for richer texture)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Garlic Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. It includes around 15 minutes for prepping and cooking the mashed potatoes and another 15 minutes for preparing the creamy garlic shrimp. Perfect for a mid-week dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
Start by putting the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold salted water and bring it to a boil. Cook the potatoes until they’re tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Once they’re fork-tender, drain them well and return them to the pot. Add in the butter, and mash until smooth. Gradually stir in the milk (or cream) until you achieve your desired creaminess. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then keep warm while you cook the shrimp.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil or butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, making sure not to let it brown. Next, add the shrimp to the skillet and cook them until they turn pink and opaque—this should take about 2 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and let it come to a gentle simmer. Use a spatula to scrape up any bits left in the pan from cooking the shrimp. Then, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-5 minutes, until slightly thickened. Season it with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
4. Combine Shrimp and Sauce:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the creamy sauce, ensuring they’re coated well. Cook together for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm everything through.
5. Serve:
To serve, spoon a generous portion of your creamy mashed potatoes onto each plate. Top them with the creamy garlic shrimp and sauce. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a splash of color! Enjoy immediately for a comforting and delightful meal.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables, making it a complete and satisfying dinner. Enjoy your cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or quickly run them under cold water in a sealed bag until they are no longer frozen.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, canned coconut milk works great too, adding a subtle sweetness to the flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain the creamy texture if needed.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Dish?
Definitely! To make it even heartier, consider adding sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus when cooking the shrimp. Just add them a minute or two before the shrimp is fully cooked to keep them vibrant and fresh!
