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This creamy garlic shrimp with mashed potatoes brings together tender shrimp in a rich, flavorful sauce atop fluffy potatoes for a comforting meal that feels special yet comes together quickly. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner when you want something elegant without fuss.
I first made this for a small family gathering and everyone praised the creamy sauce paired with the perfectly cooked shrimp. Now it’s a dish I return to whenever I want to impress with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- Shrimp: one pound large shrimp peeled and deveined makes the dish meaty and satisfying fresh shrimp from a reputable fishmonger works best
- Olive oil: two tablespoons for tossing shrimp helps in cooking and flavor
- Paprika: one teaspoon adds subtle smoky warmth look for sweet or smoked depending on your preference
- Garlic powder: one teaspoon boosts the garlic flavor without overpowering
- Salt and pepper: to taste essential for seasoning
- Butter: two tablespoons for the sauce enriches and creates silky texture use high quality unsalted butter
- Garlic: four cloves minced fresh garlic is key for fragrance and depth
- Heavy cream: one cup gives richness and thickness opt for full-fat for creamier sauce
- Parmesan cheese: half cup grated adds nutty sharpness freshly grated Parmesan melts better
- Dijon mustard: one teaspoon optional but adds a gentle tang balancing richness
- Fresh thyme: for garnish adds bright herbal note enhances presentation
- Potatoes: two pounds peeled and cubed for fluffy mash Russet or Yukon gold are ideal
- Warm milk: half cup softens the mash for creamy consistency
- Butter: one quarter cup adds richness to mashed potatoes
- Salt: to taste seasons the potatoes properly
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté and cook the Shrimp:
- Toss the peeled shrimp with olive oil paprika garlic powder salt and pepper in a bowl until evenly coated. Heat a skillet over medium heat then place the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for two to three minutes on each side until they turn pink and slightly firm but still tender. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the peeled cubed potatoes and boil for about fifteen minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes well then return them to the pot. Add butter and warm milk and mash using a potato masher or electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and keep covered to stay warm.
- Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- In the same skillet used for the shrimp melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for one minute just until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring this to a gentle simmer then add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce thickens slightly. If using Dijon mustard stir it in now. Taste and adjust salt and pepper seasoning. Let simmer for three to five minutes on low.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Spoon the mashed potatoes onto plates. Arrange the cooked shrimp on top then ladle the creamy garlic sauce over everything generously. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves for a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
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Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess without separating. Avoid freezing the potatoes with sauce already mixed as texture may suffer but shrimp and sauce can be frozen separately if needed.
Ingredient Substitutions
If fresh shrimp are unavailable, frozen shrimp that are thawed and patted dry work fine. For a dairy-free alternative use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and a vegan Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor. Yukon gold potatoes can swap for Russet for a slightly creamier mash though Russets are best for fluffiness.
Serving Suggestions
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This dish shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a light green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance richness. Garlic roasted asparagus or steamed green beans add nice texture contrast. A crusty bread is great for soaking up leftover sauce on the plate.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of shrimp works best here?
Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp provide the best texture and cook evenly, offering a tender bite that complements the creamy sauce.
- → How do I keep the mashed potatoes smooth and creamy?
Boil potatoes until fork-tender, then mash using warm milk and butter. Mixing while warm helps achieve that silky texture without lumps.
- → Can I substitute Parmesan cheese in the sauce?
Grated Parmesan adds a distinct savory depth, but a mild hard cheese like Pecorino Romano can work as an alternative with a slightly sharper taste.
- → What is the role of Dijon mustard in the sauce?
Dijon mustard adds subtle acidity and complexity, balancing the richness of the cream and cheese. It’s optional but recommended for added depth.
- → How long should I cook the shrimp for best results?
Sear the shrimp 2-3 minutes per side until just pink and opaque to avoid overcooking, ensuring a juicy, tender texture.
- → What herbs complement this dish best?
Fresh thyme is used for garnish, lending a subtle earthy aroma that enhances the creamy garlic flavors beautifully.