If you’re on the lookout for a weeknight dinner that feels utterly special and spoon-licking delicious, this recipe for Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes is going to be your new obsession. The magic begins For the Shrimp, which are quickly pan-seared until plump and juicy, then coated in a buttery, garlicky cream sauce that’s luxurious without being fussy. All of this is spooned over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes, so every bite is savory comfort at its very best. Whether you’re feeding friends or just treating yourself, this dish always impresses!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, and each one plays a pivotal role in making the dish irresistibly flavorful and comforting. From the perfectly seasoned shrimp to the creamy mashed potatoes, every component brings something special to the table.

For the Shrimp: Use 1 lb of large shrimp, peeled and deveined, for succulent texture and rich flavor in every forkful.
Olive Oil: Two tablespoons add a subtle fruitiness while helping the seasonings cling to the shrimp and promote gorgeous searing.
Paprika: A teaspoon delivers earthy, vibrant color and a gentle warmth without overwhelming heat.
Garlic Powder: This one teaspoon boosts the savory notes, infusing For the Shrimp with unmistakable aroma.
Salt and Pepper: Season to taste – you can always add a little more at the end, so start light and adjust.
Butter: Two tablespoons provide the rich base for the luscious creamy garlic sauce.
Fresh Garlic: Four cloves, minced, create a bold garlicky kick that’s the star of the dish.
Heavy Cream: One cup transforms this sauce into velvety decadence without being too heavy.
Parmesan Cheese: A half cup of grated Parm blends in to add nutty depth and perfect saltiness.
Dijon Mustard (optional): A teaspoon stirs in subtle tang and complexity if you’re feeling adventurous!
Fresh Thyme Leaves: For garnish, thyme’s lemony aroma really perks up the final presentation and flavor.
Potatoes: Two pounds, peeled and cubed, are essential for the creamiest mashed base possible.
Warm Milk: A half cup helps your potatoes stay smooth and light, not gluey.
Butter (for potatoes): A quarter cup extra for the mash ensures classic richness and a luxurious mouthfeel.
Salt (for potatoes): Just for seasoning – taste as you go for perfect results!

How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Make the Mashed Potatoes

Start by getting your potatoes on the stove: boil the peeled and cubed potatoes in well-salted water until they’re wonderfully fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain them well, then pop them right back into the pot. While still steamy, mash them with plenty of butter and warm milk. The warming step is key here – it helps your mash stay fluffy and lump-free. Finish with a generous pinch of salt and keep the potatoes covered so they’re hot and ready For the Shrimp.

Step 2: Cook For the Shrimp

Let’s talk For the Shrimp! Pat your shrimp dry before tossing them with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, and a good sprinkle of salt and pepper. Heat a skillet until it’s nice and hot, then cook the shrimp for just 2–3 minutes on each side until they’re curled and beautiful. Work in batches if necessary so you don’t crowd the pan – you want every piece caramelized and juicy. Once they’re done, set them aside so you can use the same pan (and all those tasty browned bits) for the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce For the Shrimp

In that same skillet, melt butter and drop in the minced garlic, letting it sizzle until impossibly fragrant (about a minute will do). Pour in your heavy cream and bring things to a gentle simmer, then stir in the Parmesan cheese and Dijon mustard if you’re feeling up for a hint of tang. Let the sauce bubble gently, reducing for 3–5 minutes until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Taste and adjust salt and pepper – remember, this sauce is what makes For the Shrimp a truly show-stopping meal.

Step 4: Assemble For the Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

Now it’s time for the grand finale! Spoon a generous mound of mashed potatoes onto each plate, pile high with shrimp, and then drizzle the creamy garlic sauce right over the top. Add a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves before serving. For the Shrimp to shine, serve immediately while everything is piping hot and luxuriously creamy.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

Garnishes

Garnish For the Shrimp with a lush handful of fresh thyme leaves or a couple twists of cracked black pepper for an instant touch of elegance. A final dusting of extra Parmesan is never out of place here either. If you’re feeling playful, a squeeze of fresh lemon is a delicious pop of brightness.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty, so you don’t need much on the side – For the Shrimp is already center stage! Still, a crisp green salad or simply sautéed green beans make a wonderful contrast. Roasted asparagus or garlicky broccolini are also favorites for both color and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

You can present For the Shrimp family-style, piled high in a big serving dish for everyone to dig into, or individually plated for a restaurant-quality feel. Try spooning the mashed potatoes into a rustic bowl and artfully arranging the shrimp on top with sauce drizzled in slow, luxurious ribbons. Garnish the edges with thyme or microgreens for a photo-worthy finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover For the Shrimp (lucky you!), let any extras cool to room temperature, then store in airtight containers in the fridge. Keep the shrimp and sauce together, and the mashed potatoes separate if possible, so reheating is a breeze and everything stays at peak texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the mashed potatoes easily, but For the Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh. That said, if you absolutely need to freeze leftovers, place everything in airtight freezer-safe containers and use within a month. The texture of the shrimp and sauce may change slightly, but the flavor remains delicious!

Reheating

Reheat mashed potatoes gently with an extra splash of milk in a saucepan or microwave, stirring often. Warm For the Shrimp and sauce slowly in a skillet over low heat until just heated through. Avoid high heat to keep the shrimp tender (not rubbery) and the sauce lush—not split.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Thaw your shrimp fully and pat them dry before seasoning. They’ll cook up beautifully For the Shrimp and soak up all the flavor just as well as fresh.

What potatoes are best for mashed potatoes?

I recommend Yukon gold potatoes for their buttery texture, but russet potatoes work wonderfully too. Both yield wonderful fluffiness and complement For the Shrimp beautifully.

How can I make For the Shrimp spicier?

Add a pinch of red chili flakes to the sauce or a little cayenne pepper with the paprika For the Shrimp to help dial up the heat to your liking.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the creamy garlic sauce several hours in advance. Reheat on low and whisk well before serving. For the Shrimp, prepare fresh for the best taste and texture.

What’s the best way to prevent mashed potatoes from getting gluey?

Mash your potatoes while they’re hot and add warm milk rather than cold. Over-mixing can make mashed potatoes gummy, so use a handheld masher or a mixer on low speed and stop as soon as they’re creamy.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes recipe is pure comfort food with a touch of elegance—perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something sensational. If you’re craving a rich, garlicky, and ultra-satisfying meal, you’ve got to try For the Shrimp. Let me know how it goes, and don’t forget to grab that extra spoon for savoring every last drop of sauce!