Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

Creamy garlic shrimp spooned over a cloud of mashed potatoes feels like a cozy restaurant dish you can make on a weeknight. Bright garlic and silky cream lift tender shrimp into a sauce that hugs every bite of buttery potatoes. If you love indulgent comfort food with fast prep, this recipe hits the mark and looks gorgeous on a plate. For more creamy, garlic-forward ideas, try our creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta for another crowd-pleasing meal.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This dish is a winner because it pairs speed with a luxurious finish: shrimp cooks in minutes and a simple cream-and-Parmesan sauce makes it feel special. It’s perfect for entertaining when you want a pretty, impressive plate without fuss. The components are pantry-friendly and flexible, so you can scale it up for guests or keep it intimate for two. The mashed potatoes act as a neutral canvas, letting the garlicky sauce shine and soak into each forkful. Little touches like fresh parsley and a quick finish off the heat keep it bright and photo-ready. For a heartier plate that leans into the same flavor family, consider pairing with a recipe like garlic Parmesan chicken and potatoes.

Flavor and Texture

Imagine the first bite: a creamy, slightly tangy sauce coating plump shrimp with a gentle garlic bite that isn’t overpowering. Parmesan adds umami richness and a subtle nuttiness while heavy cream smooths everything into a silken cloak. The shrimp provide a springy, satisfying chew that contrasts with the pillowy mashed potatoes beneath. Fresh parsley brightens the plate and cuts through the richness for balance. Altogether it’s a comforting mix of creamy, savory, and fresh notes that photograph beautifully for a Pinterest-friendly feed.

Ingredients

* 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
* Mashed potatoes (for serving)

Step by Step Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Remove from heat, stir in parsley, and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve the creamy garlic shrimp over fluffy mashed potatoes.

Tips for Best Results

Use medium to large shrimp so they stay juicy and avoid overcooking; remove them from heat as soon as they turn opaque. Mince garlic finely so it releases aroma quickly without burning during the short sauté. Grated Parmesan melts more evenly than pre-shredded blends that have anti-caking agents. Warm your cream slightly before adding if your pan is hot to prevent sudden clumping. Finish with chopped parsley and a light grind of black pepper for a fresh, finished look.

Storage and Make Ahead

Store any leftover shrimp and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to reset the sauce’s silkiness; high heat can separate cream. Keep mashed potatoes stored separately and rewarm them in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little butter or milk for the best texture. For make-ahead ease, cook the shrimp and sauce, cool, and assemble with warmed potatoes when ready to serve.

Final Thought

This creamy garlic shrimp over mashed potatoes is a quick way to elevate simple ingredients into a memorable meal. It’s elegant enough for guests and simple enough for a comforting weekday dinner. A handful of fresh parsley and a smooth, cheesy sauce make each bite sing.

Conclusion

For more inspiration and a slightly different take on this classic creamy garlic shrimp, check out Creamy Garlic Shrimp – 40 Aprons for additional variations and serving ideas.

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