Creamy Garlic Shrimp & Mashed Potatoes

This recipe combines the richness of perfectly seared shrimp smothered in a creamy garlic sauce, served over smooth and buttery mashed potatoes. It’s a comforting and elegant dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Add a side of roasted asparagus, and you’ve got a complete meal!

Ingredients:

For the Shrimp & Sauce:

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tsp paprika
Salt & pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley, for garnish

For the Mashed Potatoes:

4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup butter
Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

Boil the Potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot. Cover with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1/4 cup butter. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside and keep warm.

2. Cook the Shrimp:

Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add Cream and Broth: Pour in 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup chicken broth, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine, then add 1 tsp paprika for an extra burst of flavor. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine and Serve:

Coat the Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the creamy garlic sauce until they’re well-coated and heated through.
Serve: Spoon the creamy mashed potatoes onto each plate and top with the creamy garlic shrimp. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra freshness.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this dish with a side of roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or even a light side salad for balance. It’s a great main course for a cozy dinner at home or even for entertaining guests!

Tips for Success:

For Extra Flavor: Add a splash of white wine to the sauce while simmering for an extra layer of richness.
Cheese Options: If you don’t have Parmesan, feel free to use Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different cheese profile.
Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes when making the sauce.

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp & Mashed Potatoes dish is sure to become a family favorite, offering comforting flavors and the perfect balance of rich, creamy goodness with a touch of freshness from the parsley. Enjoy!