If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Creamy Shrimp and Gnocchi with Garlic Parmesan is just what you need. This recipe has become a staple in my home, perfect for busy weeknights when I want to whip up something special without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender gnocchi and succulent shrimp smothered in a rich and creamy garlic parmesan sauce is simply irresistible!

Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering with friends, this dish has a way of impressing everyone at the table. It’s comfort food at its best, and the delightful flavors will have your loved ones asking for seconds. Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love making this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, you can have this delicious meal ready in under 40 minutes!
Family-Friendly: The creamy sauce and tender gnocchi are sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your family.
Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare many elements ahead of time, making dinner stress-free on busy nights.
Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, parmesan, and cream creates a decadent taste that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make.
Versatile Dish: This recipe can easily be adapted to fit different tastes or dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Creamy Shrimp and Gnocchi with Garlic Parmesan is part of the fun! These simple and wholesome ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Main Dish

1 pound (450g) Gnocchi (fresh or frozen)
1 pound (450g) Shrimp (peeled and deveined; large or jumbo recommended)
4 cloves Garlic (minced)
2 tablespoons Butter (unsalted)
1 tablespoon Olive Oil (extra virgin preferred)

For the Sauce

1 cup (240ml) Heavy Cream (for a rich sauce)
1 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated for best flavor)
Salt (to taste)
Black Pepper (to taste)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley or Basil (chopped, for garnish)
¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for heat)

Variations

One of the best things about this Creamy Shrimp and Gnocchi with Garlic Parmesan is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some tasty variations to try:

Swap the protein: Feel free to use chicken or even sautéed vegetables if you’re looking for something lighter.
Add some greens: Toss in fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
Experiment with cheese: Try using different cheeses like goat cheese or mozzarella for a unique twist on flavor.
Change up the spices: Add Italian seasoning or lemon zest for an extra layer of flavor that brightens up the dish.

How to Make Creamy Shrimp and Gnocchi with Garlic Parmesan

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your gnocchi. They will cook quickly—just about 2-3 minutes—until they float to the surface. Remove them with a slotted spoon and set aside. This step ensures your gnocchi are perfectly tender before they go into the creamy sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then add shrimp! Cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step brings out their natural sweetness while infusing your dish with wonderful garlic flavor.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Once the shrimp are cooked through, pour in heavy cream while stirring continuously. Bring it to a gentle simmer before adding freshly grated parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth; season with salt and black pepper to taste. This luxurious sauce is what makes your Creamy Shrimp and Gnocchi so irresistible!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Gently fold in cooked gnocchi into your creamy shrimp mixture. Allow everything to simmer together for another minute or two so that all those flavors meld perfectly. Taste one last time; adjust seasoning if necessary!

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

To finish off your masterpiece, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil over your dish along with red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately while it’s warm—this dish is best enjoyed fresh!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Shrimp and Gnocchi with Garlic Parmesan

Cooking should be a joy, not a chore! Here are some handy tips to ensure that your dish turns out perfectly every time.

Use fresh ingredients – Fresh shrimp and high-quality parmesan will enhance the overall flavor of your dish, making it taste restaurant-worthy.
Don’t overcook the shrimp – Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. Overcooking can make them rubbery; aim for just until they turn pink and opaque.
Adjust the creaminess – If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute part of it with vegetable broth or a non-dairy option like cashew cream.
Gnocchi cooking method – If using frozen gnocchi, there’s no need to thaw them first. Just add them directly to the boiling water; they’ll be ready when they float to the top.
Experiment with herbs – While parsley and basil are great garnishes, feel free to try other herbs too! Chives or dill can bring unique flavors that complement the dish beautifully.

How to Serve Creamy Shrimp and Gnocchi with Garlic Parmesan

Presenting your Creamy Shrimp and Gnocchi in a delightful way can make all the difference during mealtime. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

Chopped Fresh Parsley – A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness, enhancing both presentation and taste.
Lemon Zest – A touch of lemon zest brightens up the creamy sauce, balancing richness with a citrusy note.
Shaved Parmesan – For an extra indulgent touch, serve with additional shaved parmesan on top just before serving.

Side Dishes

Garlic Bread – Warm, crusty garlic bread makes a perfect accompaniment for scooping up that delicious sauce.
Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus adds a pop of color and a crunchy texture that complements the creamy pasta nicely.
Mixed Green Salad – A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers freshness that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the main dish.
Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers bring out natural sweetness while adding another layer of flavor to your meal.

Enjoy crafting this delightful dinner! Whether it’s for a special occasion or just another lovely weeknight at home, this Creamy Shrimp and Gnocchi is sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Shrimp and Gnocchi with Garlic Parmesan recipe is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal even on your busiest days.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover creamy shrimp and gnocchi in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Keep the dish separate from fresh herbs until ready to serve for optimal flavor.

Freezing

Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
Transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible.
Freeze for up to 2 months. Note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water if needed to regain creaminess.
Stir frequently until heated through, ensuring not to overcook the shrimp.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Shrimp and Gnocchi with Garlic Parmesan.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Creamy Shrimp and Gnocchi with Garlic Parmesan?

Absolutely! Frozen shrimp works perfectly in this recipe. Just remember to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?

If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream. This will still yield a deliciously creamy sauce!

Is Creamy Shrimp and Gnocchi with Garlic Parmesan suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish is great for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge and can be reheated easily while maintaining its flavors.

How can I make my Creamy Shrimp and Gnocchi with Garlic Parmesan spicier?

For a kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking. Adjust according to your spice preference!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Creamy Shrimp and Gnocchi with Garlic Parmesan! It’s a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort and warmth to any dinner table. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or modifications—I love hearing from fellow food enthusiasts!