If there’s any dish that turns a simple weeknight dinner into an occasion, it’s Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes. For the Shrimp, juicy crustaceans are tossed in fragrant spices, seared to perfection, then swaddled in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce, all cascading over a pillowy bed of buttery mashed potatoes. This is comfort food elevated — rich, decadent, and unbelievably easy to throw together! Whether you’re looking to dazzle dinner guests or just spoil yourself, let’s get into every delicious detail of this absolute favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a peek at each ingredient; you’ll be amazed how just a handful of simple pantry staples join forces to make such a crave-worthy meal. Every component serves a purpose, adding depth, subtlety, or a pop of creamy goodness.

Large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The true star of the show, these plump morsels soak up all the sauce and stay perfectly tender.
Olive oil: Helps the shrimp brown beautifully and adds a light fruitiness.
Paprika: Brings color and a gentle smokiness to the For the Shrimp seasoning.
Garlic powder: Adds an extra hit of savory depth alongside fresh garlic.
Salt and pepper: The essential finishers for balancing all the flavors.
Butter: Creates the foundation for the creamy garlic sauce and enriches the mashed potatoes.
Fresh garlic, minced: The aromatic backbone of that luscious sauce.
Heavy cream: Results in the dreamy, silky texture you crave in a cream sauce.
Parmesan cheese: Melts in for nutty, salty intensity and luxurious thickness.
Dijon mustard (optional): A bit of bite to tease out all the rich flavors.
Fresh thyme leaves: A fragrant, graceful finish For the Shrimp and potatoes.
Potatoes, peeled and cubed: Form the soft, comforting base for everything else to shine atop.
Warm milk: Makes the mashed potatoes extra creamy and prevents gumminess.

Kitchen equipment: Large pot, potato masher, hand mixer, skillet, mixing bowls, measuring cups/spoons, wooden spoon, knife, cutting board — everything you need for fuss-free cooking.

How to Make For the Shrimp

Step 1: Make the Mashed Potatoes

Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil. Add your peeled, cubed potatoes and cook until they’re totally fork-tender — usually around 15 minutes, but check early to make sure they don’t turn mushy. Drain the potatoes well, then return them to the still-warm pot. Add the butter and warm milk, then grab your favorite masher or mixer and whip everything together until the potatoes are as smooth and creamy as clouds. Season well with salt and give them a taste. Cover the pot to keep the mashed potatoes steamy and delicious while you move on.

Step 2: Cook For the Shrimp

In a large bowl, toss the cleaned shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, and a generous pinch each of salt and pepper. This simple blend transforms the shrimp, giving them a bold, savory crust. Get your skillet hot over medium-high heat, and when it’s shimmering, lay the shrimp in a single layer. Let each side cook for about 2 to 3 minutes — you’ll see them turn pink and curl up. Don’t crowd the pan; work in batches if you need, so each For the Shrimp piece gets caramelized, not steamed. Once cooked, transfer them to a plate and keep them handy.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce For the Shrimp

Don’t clean the skillet — those lovely bits stuck to the bottom are pure flavor! Drop in the butter and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and stir for about a minute, just until fragrant and golden, not brown. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle bubble, then whisk in the Parmesan and Dijon mustard if using. A pinch of salt and pepper is a must. Let everything simmer for a few minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens slightly and turns glossy. If you like a touch of heat or depth, now’s the time to toss in a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of white wine. Taste and adjust so it’s exactly how you love it!

Step 4: Assemble For the Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

Grab your plates and pile on a generous serving of those creamy mashed potatoes. Artfully nudge the shrimp over the top, then ladle the hot, garlicky cream sauce over everything, letting it soak into every nook and cranny. Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves right before serving for an herby pop. The dish is best eaten warm, when everything is creamy and fragrant and the shrimp are at their succulent best.

How to Serve For the Shrimp

Garnishes

A finishing flourish will make your plate restaurant-worthy! Try extra fresh thyme sprigs, a dusting of paprika, or even paper-thin lemon slices on the side. If you love a bit of green, scatter over finely chopped chives or parsley. Each garnish adds color, aroma, and flavor, really making For the Shrimp shine.

Side Dishes

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes is a complete meal, but a crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette or simply steamed asparagus work wonders as fresh, vibrant contrasts. Warm dinner rolls or crusty bread are also perfect for swiping up any leftover sauce on your plate!

Creative Ways to Present

Why not serve For the Shrimp family-style on a big platter for easy sharing? For brunch, pile the shrimp and sauce atop a toasted English muffin for a decadent twist. Individual ramekins or little cast-iron pans make a cozy, personalized presentation perfect for guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any extra For the Shrimp and mashed potatoes to airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers extra tasty, though you may need to stir in a splash of cream or milk before reheating.

Freezing

For the Shrimp isn’t at its best after freezing, as the creamy sauce can separate and shrimp can become rubbery. However, the mashed potatoes can be frozen for up to one month. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently with added milk or butter.

Reheating

To reheat For the Shrimp, cover with foil and warm in a 325F oven until heated through, or gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed. Microwave on low in short bursts works in a pinch, but keep an eye out so the shrimp don’t overcook.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just thaw them thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels before seasoning. For the Shrimp to cook evenly, avoid excess moisture on the surface.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or even coconut milk for a lighter spin. Keep in mind, the sauce may be a touch thinner, but it will still coat the For the Shrimp beautifully.

Is this dish spicy?

The recipe as written is rich and savory, not spicy. To add a little kick, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the sauce.

How do I avoid rubbery shrimp?

For the Shrimp, always cook over medium-high heat and watch closely. Shrimp only need a couple minutes per side; as soon as they’re opaque and curl, they’re perfect.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Certainly! Swap the butter for a neutral oil or plant-based margarine, and use unsweetened coconut cream and vegan Parmesan alternatives for the sauce and mashed potatoes. For the Shrimp, the final dish will still be creamy and delicious.

Final Thoughts

Ready to wow your family or just yourself tonight? For the Shrimp, creamy garlic sauce, and silky mashed potatoes are pure weeknight magic. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to favorite for special occasions and everyday celebrations alike!

For the Shrimp Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 29 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the luxurious flavors of Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes, a decadent dish that combines perfectly cooked shrimp with a rich, creamy garlic sauce served atop velvety mashed potatoes.

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Mashed Potatoes Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain them and return to the pot. Mash with butter and warm milk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt to taste, then cover to keep warm.
Pro Tip: Warming the milk helps the mashed potatoes stay smooth and fluffy rather than gluey.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Note: Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook in batches if needed to ensure even searing.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and Dijon mustard if using. Season with salt and pepper, and let the sauce simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Optional Add-Ons: A splash of white wine or a pinch of red chili flakes will elevate the sauce even more.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish Spoon mashed potatoes onto each plate. Top with a generous helping of shrimp. Pour the creamy garlic sauce over the top, and garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Serving Suggestion: Serve immediately while everything is warm and creamy for best results.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Sauté, Boil
Cuisine: American