Description
As a busy mom, I often find myself juggling a million tasks and wondering what to whip up for dinner. That’s why I absolutely adore this Creamy Shrimp and Gnocchi with Garlic Parmesan recipe! It’s not only a delightful dish that the whole family will love, but it also comes together in about 35 minutes. Imagine tender shrimp dancing in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce, perfectly coating those little pillows of gnocchi. It’s a quick solution for any hectic day—a comforting dish that never fails to impress, leaving everyone at the table smiling!
Ingredients
- 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
- 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
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley or Basil chopped, for garnish
- ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes optional, for heat
Instructions
- Prepare the Gnocchi: If using frozen gnocchi, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions (usually 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface). Drain and set aside.
- Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Let marinate for about 15 minutes.
- Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and allow it to simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add the Parmesan: Stir in 1 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese into the sauce until it melts and becomes creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low to keep warm.
- Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet with the sauce, add the marinated shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Combine Gnocchi and Sauce: Gently fold the cooked gnocchi into the skillet with the shrimp and sauce, tossing everything together until the gnocchi is well coated.
- Serve: Divide the shrimp and gnocchi among plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil and additional parmesan cheese if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately, perhaps with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!
Notes
- Consider using fresh herbs for garnish for an added flavor boost.
- This dish can be complemented with a side of green vegetables.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 200mg