Garlic Butter Shrimp Mashed has become my go-to for a quick and incredibly satisfying dinner. I first stumbled upon this gem when I needed a weeknight meal that felt special but wouldn’t keep me in the kitchen all evening. The aroma of garlic and butter sizzling in the pan, mingling with the creamy scent of potatoes, is pure comfort. This Shrimp with Garlic Butter Potatoes is so simple to whip up, and the rich, savory flavors of the tender shrimp coated in that luscious garlic butter sauce, all nestled on a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes, are simply divine. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Mashed
You’re going to adore this simple skillet dish for so many reasons:
- It’s incredibly quick, ready in just 35 minutes!
- The combination of tender shrimp and creamy mashed potatoes is pure comfort food.
- The garlic butter sauce is rich, savory, and utterly irresistible.
- This Garlic Butter Shrimp Potato Mash Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- It’s a one-skillet wonder for easy cleanup.
- You can easily customize the spice level with chili flakes.
- This Shrimp with Garlic Butter Potatoes makes a fantastic impression for guests.
- It’s a naturally gluten-free meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp Mashed
Gather these simple ingredients for a truly delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp and Potato Mash:
- 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined – make sure they’re patted dry for a good sear
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter – divided for sautéing and finishing the sauce
- 5 cloves garlic, minced – the star of our luscious garlic butter sauce
- 1/2 tsp paprika – adds a hint of color and warmth
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional) – for a touch of heat
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste – essential for seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil – helps the butter not to burn
- Juice of 1/2 lemon – brightens up the rich flavors
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish) – for a pop of green and freshness
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed – the fluffy foundation for our dish
- 1/2 cup whole milk – warms it for extra creamy mashed potatoes
- 3 tbsp butter – for ultimate creamy mashed potatoes
- Salt, to taste – for the potatoes
- Pepper, to taste – for the potatoes
- Optional: 1/4 cup sour cream or cream cheese – for an even richer mash
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Mashed
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Mashed Potatoes Recipe is surprisingly simple, promising a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Let’s dive in!
- Step 1: Start by boiling the cubed russet potatoes in generously salted water for about 15–20 minutes, or until a fork slides in easily. Drain them well and return the hot potatoes to the pot.
- Step 2: Add 3 tbsp butter and 1/2 cup whole milk to the drained potatoes. Mash them until they’re wonderfully smooth and creamy. If you’re using sour cream or cream cheese for an extra decadent mash, stir it in now. Season generously with salt and pepper to your liking. Cover the pot to keep your mashed potatoes warm while you prepare the shrimp.
- Step 3: In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp of the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the minced garlic. Cook for just about 30 seconds until you can smell its amazing fragrance – be careful not to burn it!
- Step 4: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season them with 1/2 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp chili flakes (if you like a little heat), salt, and black pepper. Sauté the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn pink and opaque.
- Step 5: Stir in the remaining 3 tbsp of butter and the juice of half a lemon. Swirl the pan gently to coat the shrimp in this luscious, garlicky butter sauce. This step really brings the dish together for an incredible Shrimp with Garlic Butter Potatoes experience.
- Step 6: Serve generous portions of your creamy mashed potatoes, then top with the sautéed shrimp and that glorious garlic butter sauce. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Potato Mash!
Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Shrimp Mashed
To elevate your Garlic Butter Shrimp Potato Mash Recipe from good to absolutely amazing, try these simple tricks:
- Pat your shrimp completely dry before cooking. This is crucial for getting a beautiful sear instead of steaming them, which is key for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the shrimp. Cook them in batches if necessary to ensure each shrimp gets perfectly cooked and coated in the delicious garlic butter sauce.
- Warm your milk and butter for the mashed potatoes. This helps them incorporate more smoothly, resulting in an exceptionally creamy texture for your Shrimp with Garlic Butter Potatoes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the process. Shrimp and potatoes are blank canvases, so don’t be shy with salt and pepper!
What’s the secret to perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Mashed?
The real magic for a perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Mash lies in the quality of the garlic butter sauce and the texture of the potatoes. Sautéing the garlic briefly until fragrant, then emulsifying the butter and lemon juice into that base creates a rich, glossy sauce that perfectly coats the tender shrimp and fluffy potatoes. For more information on emulsification, you can check out Food Network’s guide.
Can I make Garlic Butter Shrimp Mashed ahead of time?
You can definitely prepare components ahead to simplify serving. The mashed potatoes can be made a day in advance and then gently reheated on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream until smooth and creamy. However, it’s best to cook the shrimp just before serving to guarantee they are perfectly tender and juicy; reheating shrimp can sometimes make them rubbery. For tips on food safety and storage, consult the FoodSafety.gov guidelines.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Garlic Butter Shrimp Mashed?
To avoid common pitfalls when making Shrimp with Garlic Butter Potatoes, focus on not overcooking the shrimp – they turn pink and opaque quickly, usually in just 2-3 minutes per side. For the mashed potatoes, ensure you season the boiling water and mash them while still hot, incorporating warmed milk and butter for the smoothest, most flavorful result. Don’t skip patting the shrimp dry for a better sear! You can learn more about proper shrimp cooking techniques from Serious Eats.
Best Ways to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Mashed
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Potato Mash Recipe is fantastic on its own, but I love pairing it with a few simple sides to round out the meal. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the shrimp and potatoes. Steamed or roasted green beans or asparagus also make excellent companions, adding a lovely pop of color and fresh flavor. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside some crusty bread to sop up any extra garlicky butter sauce. This Shrimp with Garlic Butter Potatoes is truly a versatile dish that shines in many ways.
Nutrition Facts for Garlic Butter Shrimp Mashed
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving of this delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Potato Mash:
- Calories: 475
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
- Sodium: 640mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For more detailed nutritional analysis, you can refer to resources like the MyFitnessPal database.
How to Store and Reheat Garlic Butter Shrimp Mashed
Properly storing and reheating this delightful Garlic Butter Shrimp Potato Mash ensures you can enjoy its flavors again. Once cooked, let the dish cool completely at room temperature for no more than two hours. Transfer any leftovers into airtight containers. You can store the Garlic Butter Shrimp Mashed Potatoes in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the components separately if possible, or the whole dish, for up to 3 months. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers to prevent freezer burn. You can find more tips on proper food storage from the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service.
To reheat, gently warm the mashed potatoes on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or cream until creamy. Reheat the shrimp in a skillet over medium-low heat with a little extra butter or olive oil until just warmed through. Avoid microwaving the shrimp, as it can make them tough. Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Garlic Butter Mash Side Dish leftovers!
Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Shrimp Mashed
What’s the secret to perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Mashed?
The secret to a truly exceptional Garlic Butter Shrimp Mashed Potatoes Recipe is twofold: perfectly cooked, tender shrimp and incredibly creamy mashed potatoes. Sautéing the garlic briefly until fragrant, then emulsifying the butter and lemon juice into that base creates a rich, glossy sauce that coats everything beautifully. For the potatoes, using warm dairy and mashing them while hot ensures maximum creaminess. If you’re interested in the science behind creamy mashed potatoes, check out this article on The Kitchn.
Can I make Garlic Butter Shrimp Mashed ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare certain elements ahead to simplify serving. The mashed potatoes can be made a day in advance and then gently reheated on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream until smooth and creamy. However, it’s best to cook the shrimp just before serving to guarantee they are perfectly tender and juicy; reheating shrimp can sometimes make them rubbery. For more on meal prep, you might find Budget Bytes’ meal prep section helpful.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Garlic Butter Shrimp Mashed?
To avoid common pitfalls when making Shrimp with Garlic Butter Potatoes, focus on not overcooking the shrimp – they turn pink and opaque quickly, usually in just 2-3 minutes per side. For the mashed potatoes, ensure you season the boiling water and mash them while still hot, incorporating warmed milk and butter for the smoothest, most flavorful result. Don’t skip patting the shrimp dry for a better sear! Understanding the Maillard reaction can help explain why searing is so important for flavor.
What side dishes pair well with Garlic Butter Shrimp Mashed?
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Potato Mash Recipe is wonderfully versatile. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast. Steamed or roasted asparagus or green beans add a nice touch of color and freshness. For a heartier meal, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any extra garlicky butter sauce. These simple additions complement the richness of the Garlic Butter Shrimp Mashed beautifully. For salad dressing ideas, consider Allrecipes’ dressing section.
Variations of Garlic Butter Shrimp Mashed You Can Try
Looking to switch things up? This Garlic Butter Shrimp Potato Mash Recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
- Spicy Kick: For an extra kick, add a pinch more chili flakes to the shrimp sauté, or try a dash of hot sauce in the garlic butter sauce. This will give your Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Mash a delightful warmth.
- Lemon Herb Twist: Amp up the citrus by adding a bit more lemon juice or even some lemon zest to the sauce. Incorporate fresh dill or chives into the mashed potatoes for a bright, herbaceous flavor that complements the Shrimp with Garlic Butter Potatoes perfectly.
- Cheesy Potatoes: Stir in some grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar cheese into your mashed potatoes for an extra savory and decadent touch. This cheesy variation on the Garlic Butter Shrimp Mashed Potatoes is incredibly satisfying.
- Lighter Version: If you’re looking for a slightly lighter option, use reduced-fat milk and a little less butter in the mashed potatoes. You can also swap some of the butter for olive oil in the shrimp sauté for a different flavor profile.
For more information on healthy eating and ingredient substitutions, you can visit the TelRecipes homepage.
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PrintGarlic Butter Shrimp Mashed: 35 Min Dinner
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A quick and comforting skillet dinner featuring tender shrimp sautéed in a garlicky butter sauce served over creamy mashed potatoes. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for weeknights or entertaining.
Ingredients
- For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 3 tbsp butter
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup sour cream or cream cheese
Instructions
- Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes until fork tender. Drain and return to the pot.
- Add milk and butter to the hot potatoes and mash until smooth. Stir in sour cream or cream cheese if using. Season with salt and pepper. Keep warm.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add shrimp in a single layer. Season with paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Sauté 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Add remaining butter and lemon juice. Stir to coat shrimp in sauce.
- Serve shrimp over mashed potatoes and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- Pat shrimp dry before cooking for better searing.
- Don’t overcook shrimp—2–3 minutes per side is enough.
- Use warm dairy for creamier mashed potatoes.
- Yukon Gold potatoes can be used for a richer mash.
- Shrimp are best cooked fresh—prepare potatoes in advance if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 475
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 190mg