As I stand in my cozy Monterey kitchen, the aroma of Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes brings a comforting reminder of my childhood days spent in Nonna Rosa’s garden. The scent of garlic roasting and the creamy, buttery potatoes evoke memories of family gatherings where love was the main ingredient. This dish, simple yet elegant, is an ode to those cherished moments, a culinary journey that began on a flour-covered stool and blossomed through my adventures in Europe.
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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes
This dish is a heartwarming blend of flavors and textures that brings the comfort of home to your table. The creamy garlic sauce envelops succulent shrimp, perfectly paired with buttery mashed potatoes—each bite a reminder of the rustic charm of my family’s recipes. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or craving a cozy night in, this dish offers a taste of nostalgia and warmth. Inspired by my travels in Italy and Spain, this recipe combines simple, fresh ingredients with a touch of elegance, making it both accessible and impressive.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
Substitution suggestions: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a pescatarian option.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 520 per serving
- Protein: 26g
- Fat: 33g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
Savor the Ultimate Comfort: Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes
Learn how to make delicious Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
Substitution suggestions: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a pescatarian option.
Instructions
- Boil potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.
- Add 2 tablespoons of butter, milk, sour cream, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy. Cover and keep warm.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the remaining butter. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing to a simmer.
- Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Return shrimp to the skillet and coat with the sauce.
- Stir in parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another minute to let the flavors meld.
- Serve shrimp and sauce over mashed potatoes, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Personal tip: Keep an eye on the sauce to prevent it from becoming too thick—consistency is key to a perfect dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes
- Boil potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.
- Add 2 tablespoons of butter, milk, sour cream, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy. Cover and keep warm.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the remaining butter. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing to a simmer.
- Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Return shrimp to the skillet and coat with the sauce.
- Stir in parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another minute to let the flavors meld.
- Serve shrimp and sauce over mashed potatoes, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Personal tip: Keep an eye on the sauce to prevent it from becoming too thick—consistency is key to a perfect dish. Learn more: Creamy Keto Chicken Pasta Delight
Tips for Making the Best Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes
To achieve the creamiest mashed potatoes, ensure they’re thoroughly drained before mashing. A potato ricer or food mill will give you the smoothest texture, reminiscent of my grandmother’s technique. For the shrimp, freshness is paramount. Monterey’s coastal bounty taught me the value of fresh seafood—if you can, buy shrimp from a local fishmonger for the best flavor. Lastly, remember to taste and adjust seasoning as you cook; it’s a lesson from my mother, Elena, who always improvised with love.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This dish pairs beautifully with a light, crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio, enhancing the garlic and cream notes. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens and citrusy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the shrimp and potatoes. Additionally, a side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of the delicious garlic cream sauce.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm the shrimp and sauce over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture. The mashed potatoes can be reheated in the microwave, with a splash of milk to restore their creaminess. Avoid high heat, as it can cause the shrimp to become rubbery—a lesson learned from many family dinners where leftovers were cherished as much as the main meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes?
The main ingredients for Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes?
The total time to make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes?
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Creating Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes is more than a culinary endeavor; it’s an invocation of joyful memories and cherished traditions. Each step brings me closer to my roots, reminding me of the fragrant kitchens of my youth and the vibrant marketplaces of Europe. This dish is an invitation to savor life’s simple pleasures, to gather loved ones around the table, and to share stories that nourish the soul as much as the body. As you cook and enjoy this recipe, may you feel the warmth of my family’s legacy, one comforting bite at a time.
