Introduction
Do you ever want a meal that feels special but takes little effort? One that makes you feel good, like cozy evenings and happy faces? We all know that feeling – a long day, hungry, and wanting something great without a lot of work. Today, we look at a dish that fits this perfectly: a mix of tastes and textures that will make your weeknight dinner amazing. Get ready for the magic of Garlic Butter Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes.
Why Make This Recipe
This is not just another dinner recipe; it is a warm hug in a bowl. Here is why Garlic Butter Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes will quickly become a favorite:
- Easy and Elegant: This dish looks good and tastes rich, but it is simple to make. It is great for busy nights or when you want to impress without stress.
- Taste Party: The juicy shrimp in flavorful garlic butter goes perfectly with the smooth, creamy mashed potatoes. This creates a taste that you will love.
- Comfort Food, New Look: It is the best comfort food, providing warmth and satisfaction. Yet, it feels lighter and nicer than heavy meals.
- Changeable and Custom: You can easily change it to fit what you like to eat. You can also add your favorite spices and other things.
- Fast and Delicious: You can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in less than 30 minutes.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes
Let’s go through making this great meal, step by step.
Ingredients of Garlic Butter Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes
Gather what you need for this tasty dish.
- For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For the Garlic Butter Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, your choice)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4-5 cloves garlic, chopped very fine
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions of Garlic Butter Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes
Follow these easy steps to make your dish.
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- Put potato pieces in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a lot of salt.
- Boil it, then turn down the heat. Cook until potatoes are soft when poked with a fork, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain potatoes well. Put them back in the hot pot to dry out any water.
- Add milk and butter. Mash with a potato masher until smooth and creamy. Add salt and pepper to your taste. Keep warm.
- Cook the Garlic Butter Shrimp:
- Dry shrimp very well with paper towels. Add salt and pepper.
- In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute until it smells good. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Put shrimp in the pan in one layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until pink and not clear. Do not crowd the pan; cook in groups if needed.
- Take the pan off the heat. Stir in fresh parsley and lemon juice.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes
Make your meal better with these tasty additions.
- Green Goodness: A simple side salad with dressing or steamed green beans with lemon juice will add a fresh taste.
- Crusty Friend: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up all the amazing garlic butter sauce.
- Veggie Choices: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or cooked spinach are great additions that go well with the rich flavors.
How to Store Garlic Butter Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes
You can keep leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For the shrimp, store it separately in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. Reheat the potatoes gently on the stove with a splash of milk or in the microwave. Reheat shrimp quickly to avoid overcooking.
Tips to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes
A few tips to make your dish wonderful.
- Perfect Potatoes: Do not mash your potatoes too much, or they can become sticky. For super creamy potatoes, use a potato ricer.
- Smart Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp become tough and chewy. Cook them just until they turn pink and not clear.
- More Flavor: After cooking the shrimp, add a little chicken broth to the pan. This adds more taste to your sauce.
Variation
Make this dish your own with these creative ideas.
- Spicier: Use more red pepper flakes or add a bit of cayenne pepper for more heat.
- Herbal: Try other fresh herbs like chives, dill, or oregano in your garlic butter.
- Cheesy: Stir in some shredded Parmesan or white cheddar cheese into your mashed potatoes for extra richness.
- More Veggies: Cook some chopped bell peppers or cherry tomatoes with the shrimp for more color and good nutrients.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for Garlic Butter Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them all the way and dry them very well before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and get a good color.
How can I make the mashed potatoes even creamier?
For extra creamy mashed potatoes with your Garlic Butter Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes, use full-fat milk or cream, and use plenty of butter! You can also press them through a potato ricer for a super smooth texture.
What kind of drink pairs well with Garlic Butter Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes?
A crisp drink like water with lemon or a light fruit juice would go well with the rich flavors of the Garlic Butter Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes.
Classic Garlic Butter Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes
Equipment
- large pot
- potato masher
- large pan
- paper towels
Ingredients
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs russet or Yukon Gold potatoes peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Garlic Butter Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined (tails on or off, your choice)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4-5 cloves garlic chopped very fine
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Boil salted 1-inch potato pieces for 15-20 minutes until tender, then drain and return to the hot pot to dry. Add milk and butter, then mash until smooth, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste; keep warm.
Cook the Garlic Butter Shrimp
- Season dried shrimp with salt and pepper. Melt butter in a pan, add garlic and optional red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Place shrimp in a single layer and cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink, then remove from heat and stir in parsley and lemon juice.
Serve
- Serve the garlic butter shrimp immediately over the warm mashed potatoes, garnishing with extra fresh parsley if desired.