I love making this shrimp and mashed potato recipe. The shrimp gets a bold kick from spices while the mashed potatoes stay creamy and comforting.
It’s the kind of dish that feels a little fancy but takes almost no time to pull together. I usually make it when I want real comfort food with a touch of flavor-packed flair.
If you’re into quick, cozy meals that actually taste amazing, you’re going to want to keep this recipe in your back pocket.
Why You Will Love This Recipe?
I love this shrimp and mashed potato recipe because it strikes that perfect balance between comfort and flavor. The shrimp brings bold, smoky heat, while the mashed potatoes keep everything creamy and soothing
It’s one of those meals that feels a little indulgent without being complicated or heavy. I can whip it up on a busy weeknight,
but it still feels special enough to serve when I want to impress someone. If you like recipes that are quick, satisfying, and full of personality, this one’s going to hit the spot.
How To Make Shrimp And Mashed Potato Recipe
🕒 Quick Overview
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American
Yield: 2 servings
🛠️ Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Colander
- Mixing bowls
- Non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan
- Potato masher or hand mixer
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
🧂 Ingredients
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
- ½ cup milk (any type)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
For the Blackened Shrimp:
- ½ pound medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes
Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until tender, about 20-25 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
2. Make the Blackening Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine Old Bay seasoning, paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, and black pepper. Mix well and set aside.
3. Season the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Place them in a bowl and toss with 1 tablespoon of the blackening seasoning. Let them marinate while you finish the potatoes.
Add butter and ¼ cup of milk to the drained potatoes. Mash until smooth, adding more milk as needed to reach desired consistency. Stir in Old Bay seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm.
5. Cook the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2 minutes on each side, or until opaque and cooked through. Remove from heat.
6. Assemble the Dish
Spoon mashed potatoes onto plates. Top with cooked shrimp. Garnish with sliced scallions.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
I like serving this dish when I need something cozy but still a little special. It goes really well with a simple side of steamed green beans or roasted asparagus.
Sometimes I’ll toss together a quick garden salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the mashed potatoes.
And if I’m in the mood for a drink, I usually pour a glass of crisp white wine—Sauvignon Blanc works perfectly. It’s one of those meals that feels comforting but still a bit elevated.
🔥 Special Tips for Shrimp and Mashed Potato Recipe
- Pat the shrimp dry before seasoning.
Moisture on the shrimp can stop it from getting that nice sear. I always use paper towels to pat them dry before tossing in spices. - Don’t overcook the shrimp.
Shrimp cooks fast—usually 2 minutes per side is all it needs. I watch closely and remove it from the heat as soon as it turns opaque. - Use warm milk and melted butter in the mashed potatoes.
Cold milk can cool everything down and make the mash stiff. I warm both before adding them in so the potatoes stay creamy and smooth. - Season each part separately.
I always taste and season the potatoes on their own before plating. Same with the shrimp. That way, both layers shine when you bring them together. - Add a squeeze of lemon or a dash of hot sauce.
Just before serving, I sometimes hit the shrimp with a splash of fresh lemon juice or a few drops of hot sauce. It gives the whole dish a fresh pop. - Finish with herbs.
I like to sprinkle chopped scallions, parsley, or even dill over the top. It adds color and a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness.
🥗 Health Benefits
- Shrimp: A great source of lean protein, low in calories, and rich in nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12.
- Potatoes: Provide essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, especially when the skins are included.
- Old Bay Seasoning: Adds flavor without extra calories or fat, making it a healthier seasoning choice.
How To Store
I usually store the shrimp and mashed potato recipe in separate containers to keep everything fresh. The shrimp goes into an airtight container and stays good in the fridge for up to two days.
I don’t like reheating it more than once, since it can get rubbery. For the mashed potatoes, I keep them in the fridge for about four days.
If they dry out a bit, I just mix in a splash of milk or a little butter when I reheat them. A quick warm-up in the microwave or a skillet brings everything back to life.
📝 Note
For the best texture, avoid over-mashing the potatoes, which can make them gluey. Also, ensure the shrimp are not overcooked to maintain their tender, juicy texture.
✅ Conclusion
This shrimp and mashed potato recipe has become one of my go-to comfort meals. It’s fast, flavorful, and always hits the spot after a long day.
I love how the spicy shrimp balances out the creamy potatoes—it’s the kind of dish that feels like a little reward without being a hassle to make.
If you give it a try, let me know how it turns out for you. I always enjoy hearing how others bring their own twist to it. And trust me—once you make it, you’ll be thinking about it the next time you want something cozy and satisfying.