Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Potatoes
Introduction
Recipe and More
Creamy Garlic Shrimp over Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food combination. The richness of the garlicky shrimp pairs flawlessly with the smooth, buttery mashed potatoes, making it a filling and satisfying dish. This simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions when you want to impress your family or guests. Whether you’re a seafood lover or someone looking for indulgent flavors, this dish delivers a delightful mix of taste and texture.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Fresh shrimp peeled and deveined
One pound of fresh shrimp is used in this recipe to ensure the prominent seafood flavor.
Unsalted butter
Two tablespoons of unsalted butter help enhance the creamy and rich consistency.
Minced garlic
Two cloves of minced garlic provide aromatic and bold undertones to the dish.
Heavy cream
Half a cup of heavy cream gives the sauce a luscious and velvety texture.
Grated Parmesan cheese
Two tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese contribute to the savory and slightly nutty flavor.
Salt and pepper
Add salt and pepper to your taste for seasoning, keeping the flavors balanced.
Mashed potatoes
Prepare two cups of mashed potatoes beforehand to create the perfect base for the shrimp.
Prep Time
Making It Easy
The preparation for this mouthwatering dish is simple and quick. From peeling the shrimp to prepping the garlic and potatoes, everything can be ready in just 15 minutes. The focus here is to ensure excellent ingredient quality to let the flavors truly shine through.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Short and Rewarding
Cook time for this recipe is a breezy 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute plans. In total, you’ll only need around 35 minutes to prep, cook, and plate this dish. The recipe makes enough to serve two, though it can be easily doubled for larger gatherings.
Delight your palate and impress your guests with this delectable Creamy Garlic Shrimp over Mashed Potatoes recipe. With its silky sauce enriched with garlic, butter, and Parmesan, paired with the creamy and smooth potatoes, it’s a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
1. In a large pot, boil peeled potatoes in salted water until tender.
2. Drain the water and mash the potatoes until smooth.
3. Add butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes. Mix thoroughly to combine.
4. Set the mashed potatoes aside, keeping them warm for serving.
Prepare the Garlic Shrimp
1. Clean and devein the shrimp, patting them dry with a paper towel.
2. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
4. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until fully cooked. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Create the Creamy Garlic Sauce
1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in chicken broth and stir well, allowing it to simmer for a couple of minutes.
4. Lower the heat slightly and add heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
5. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce and continue stirring until melted and well combined.
Combine Shrimp with Garlic Sauce
1. Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet with the garlic sauce.
2. Stir well to coat the shrimp in the sauce, allowing them to cook together for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Plate and Serve
1. Spoon the warm mashed potatoes onto a serving plate or bowl.
2. Top the mashed potatoes with the creamy garlic shrimp.
3. Drizzle any remaining garlic sauce over the dish.
4. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or other herbs, if desired.
Notes
Adjusting Sauce Thickness
– If the garlic sauce is too thick, add a small amount of chicken broth or cream to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Choosing Potatoes
– For best results, use starchy potatoes such as Yukon Gold or Russet for the mashed potatoes.
Shrimp Substitutes
– You can substitute the shrimp with chicken, scallops, or another protein of your choice. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Butter and Cream Alternatives
– For a lighter option, use reduced-fat cream or milk and replace some of the butter with olive oil.
Serving Suggestions
– Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a light green salad for a complete meal.
Storage
– Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on a stovetop or in the microwave.
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Cook Techniques
Perfectly Sautéing Shrimp
To sauté shrimp perfectly, make sure they are deveined and peeled. Use a hot skillet with olive oil or butter, and cook each side of the shrimp for about 1-2 minutes until they turn pink and are fully opaque. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery.
Creating Creamy Garlic Sauce
Build the creamy garlic sauce by sautéing minced garlic in the same pan used to cook the shrimp. Add heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Stir constantly over medium heat to achieve a smooth and velvety consistency.
Mashing Potatoes to Perfection
For smooth and flavorful mashed potatoes, boil the potatoes until tender, then mash them with butter, cream, and a pinch of salt. Using a potato masher or hand mixer ensures you have the right texture.
Layering the Final Dish
To assemble the dish, first spoon a bed of mashed potatoes onto the plate, then place the sautéed shrimp on top. Finally, drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over the shrimp and potatoes for a cohesive and delicious presentation.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used as long as they are thawed beforehand. Make sure to remove any excess water and pat them dry with a paper towel before cooking.
What type of potatoes work best for mashed potatoes?
Russet potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for making creamy mashed potatoes because they have a higher starch content, resulting in a smoother texture.
Can I substitute heavy cream in the garlic sauce?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream as a substitute for heavy cream. However, the sauce may have a slightly different consistency.
How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking?
Keep a close eye on the cooking time and remove the shrimp from the skillet as soon as they turn pink and opaque. Residual heat will finish cooking them as they rest.
Can this dish be prepared in advance?
While it’s best to serve this dish fresh, you can prepare the mashed potatoes ahead of time and reheat them. Cook the shrimp and garlic sauce just before serving to ensure the best flavor and texture.
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Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Shrimp over Mashed Potatoes is a luxurious and flavorful dish that combines the richness of garlic butter shrimp with the comforting creaminess of mashed potatoes. This recipe effortlessly brings together textures and tastes that will impress your family or guests. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or even a special occasion, offering simplicity and elegance in every bite.
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