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Classic Garlic Butter Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes

This recipe combines succulent garlic butter shrimp with creamy, smooth mashed potatoes, creating a comforting and flavorful meal. It's a perfect dish for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 650 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Potato masher or ricer
  • Small saucepan
  • Large Skillet
  • Paper towels

Ingredients
  

For the Creamy Mashed Potatoes:

  • 2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic minced (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream Optional
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives or parsley Optional for garnish

For the Sizzling Garlic Butter Shrimp:

  • 1 pound shrimp peeled, deveined, tails on or off
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions
 

Master the Mashed Potatoes

  • Peel and chop potatoes into 1-inch pieces, then boil them in salted cold water for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
  • Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly and return them to the hot pot to mash until smooth.
  • Gently warm heavy cream or milk with butter and minced garlic in a small saucepan, then pour this mixture into the mashed potatoes.
  • Stir all ingredients together until the potatoes are creamy and smooth, being careful not to overmix.
  • Season the mashed potatoes with salt and black pepper to taste; optionally fold in cream cheese or sour cream, then cover to keep warm.

Sautéing the Irresistible Garlic Butter Shrimp

  • Pat the shrimp very dry with paper towels and season them with salt and pepper.
  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add olive oil and butter, swirling to coat the pan once the butter melts.
  • Add the minced garlic to the hot pan and sauté for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant, ensuring it does not burn.
  • Place the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
  • Remove the pan from the heat, then stir in the lemon juice and fresh chopped parsley, tossing the shrimp to coat them evenly.

How to Serve

  • Serve the hot garlic butter shrimp immediately over generous portions of the creamy mashed potatoes, garnished with additional fresh parsley or chives as desired.

Notes

Ensure potatoes are well-drained for the best mashed potato texture. Avoid overcooking the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.