If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate yet is quick enough for a weeknight dinner, then this Garlic Butter Shrimp with Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe is your new best friend. The tender, garlicky shrimp bathed in rich, buttery sauce paired with dreamy, fluffy mashed potatoes creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that feels indulgent but is totally doable. Every bite brings a lovely balance of savory buttery goodness and a touch of zest, making it a timeless dish you’ll reach for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Garlic Butter Shrimp with Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe shines because of its simplicity – no complicated ingredients, just a handful of essentials that come together to form a dish bursting with flavor. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s adding creaminess, depth, heat, or freshness.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed shrimp are key for that sweet and tender seafood flavor.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter: Provides the luscious richness to both shrimp sauce and mashed potatoes.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Packs a punch of aromatic savoriness that infuses the entire dish.
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional): Adds a subtle acidity and complexity to the shrimp sauce, but you can skip it if preferred.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth: Helps create a flavorful sauce with perfect consistency.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): A tiny heat boost that enhances the buttery shrimp without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, bright pop of color and taste at the end.
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced: The base for your fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes; starchy varieties like Russet work best.
- 1/2 cup milk: Makes the mashed potatoes decadently smooth and creamy.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for potatoes): Gives the mashed potatoes their signature rich texture and buttery flavor.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp with Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Start by boiling your peeled and diced potatoes in salted water until they’re fork-tender, typically around 15 minutes. This is crucial to achieve a perfectly smooth, creamy mashed potato base to complement your shrimp.
Step 2: Mash the Potatoes
Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot. Add the milk and 1/4 cup of butter, mashing until you have a silky, luscious texture. Season generously with salt and pepper, then set aside to stay warm while you prepare the shrimp.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Shrimp Base
In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, which should take about a minute. This step is where the magic begins—garlic and butter set the stage for flavor heaven.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Place the shrimp in the skillet in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a lovely pink and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook; you want them juicy and tender.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
Pour in the white wine, if using, along with the chicken broth. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2 minutes to reduce slightly and thicken. This creates a rich, flavorful sauce that clings to every shrimp.
Step 6: Add Final Seasonings
Stir in the red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to your preference. This finishing touch provides a subtle warmth and rounds out the flavors beautifully. Give everything a final stir to combine.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp with Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
For a beautiful finish, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the shrimp and mashed potatoes. It not only adds a lovely green pop but also a refreshing, herby flavor that balances the richness of the dish.
Side Dishes
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to create a more elaborate spread, a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables will pair wonderfully and add freshness and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the shrimp spooned over a generous mound of mashed potatoes on a warm plate, topped with extra garlic butter sauce. For a fun twist, plate the mashed potatoes in individual ramekins and place the shrimp elegantly on top—perfect for entertaining guests!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftovers into airtight containers and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. Properly stored, your Garlic Butter Shrimp with Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe will stay fresh for up to 2 days.
Freezing
While the mashed potatoes freeze well, shrimp tend to lose their texture when frozen cooked. If you want to freeze leftovers, consider freezing the mashed potatoes alone in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, then freshly prepare the shrimp when ready to serve.
Reheating
Reheat mashed potatoes gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to revive their creamy texture. Warm the shrimp in a skillet over medium-low heat just until heated through to avoid toughness. Combine and enjoy!
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to properly thaw the shrimp beforehand, pat them dry to remove excess moisture, and proceed as usual to get the best flavor and texture.
Is there a substitute for white wine in the Garlic Butter Shrimp with Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe?
If you prefer to skip the wine, extra chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice works wonderfully to add acidity and depth without alcohol.
Can I make the mashed potatoes dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the butter with a plant-based margarine and use unsweetened almond milk or another dairy-free milk to keep the mashed potatoes creamy and delicious.
How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?
It’s mildly spicy; the red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth that complements the rich butter and garlic flavors without overwhelming the palate.
What type of potatoes is best for creamy mashed potatoes?
Starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold are ideal because they break down easily and create a fluffier, creamier texture perfect for this recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Shrimp with Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe is a shining example of how simple, quality ingredients come together to create something irresistibly delicious. It’s perfect for treating yourself or impressing friends without hours in the kitchen. I genuinely hope you give this one a try and let it become a cherished staple in your cooking repertoire just like it is in mine!
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Garlic Butter Shrimp with Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Mashed Potatoes recipe offers a delightful combination of succulent shrimp cooked in a flavorful garlic butter sauce served alongside creamy, buttery mashed potatoes. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish balances rich seafood flavors with comforting sides.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Mashed Potatoes
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and dice the potatoes, then place them in a pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork, about 15 minutes.
- Mash the Potatoes: Drain and return the potatoes to the pot. Add the milk and butter, and mash until smooth and creamy.
- Season Potatoes: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside and keep warm.
- Cook Garlic in Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet, cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked through.
- Create Sauce: Pour in the white wine (if using) and chicken broth. Simmer for about 2 minutes to slightly thicken the sauce and meld the flavors.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Serve: Plate the creamy mashed potatoes and top with the garlic butter shrimp. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a richer mashed potato, substitute some of the milk with cream.
- If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, omit the white wine and increase chicken broth slightly.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control spice level or omit for a mild flavor.
- Use fresh parsley for garnish to add a vibrant color and fresh flavor.
- Ensure shrimp are not overcooked to keep them tender and juicy.
