Imagine diving into a bowl of tender shrimp nestled among soft, pillowy gnocchi enveloped in rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. This Shrimp with Gnocchi recipe brings the elegance of fine dining straight to your kitchen, without the hefty price tag or complicated steps. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, this dish is a surefire way to impress your taste buds and guests.
Quick Recipe Overview
      Feature Details
- Dish Name: Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Shrimp with Gnocchi
- Prep Time: Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 10 minutes
- Cook Time: Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 15 minutes
- Total Time: Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 25 minutes
- Servings: Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 4
- Calories per Serving: Â Approximately 550 kcal
- Main Ingredients: Â Â Â Â Â Shrimp, gnocchi, garlic, cream, Parmesan
- Skill Level: Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Easy
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1 lb (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup dry white wine (optional)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1½ cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Cook the Gnocchi
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually until they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes). Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Garlic-Parmesan Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. If using, pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
Add the chicken broth and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir in the salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine Everything
Add the cooked gnocchi and spinach to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts. Return the shrimp to the skillet and stir in the Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
Serve and Garnish
Divide the Shrimp with Gnocchi among serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Success
Shrimp Selection: Opt for large or jumbo shrimp for a meatier texture. Fresh or frozen (thawed) shrimp both work well.
Gnocchi Options: While store-bought gnocchi is convenient, homemade gnocchi can elevate the dish. Ensure they are cooked just until they float to avoid mushiness.
Cream Sauce Consistency: For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer before adding the gnocchi and shrimp. For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes or asparagus, for added color and nutrition.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
    Nutrient          Amount
- Calories         ~550 kcal
- Protein         ~30g
- Carbohydrates ~45g
- Fat             ~25g
- Fiber         ~3g
- Sodium         ~800mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Serving Suggestions
Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce and shrimp beautifully.
Side Dishes: Serve with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Bread: A slice of crusty bread or garlic toast is perfect for sopping up the delicious sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate, and the texture of the gnocchi can become mushy upon thawing.
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- Hot and Sour Soup Recipe
- Karachi Baked Fish Recipe
- Karachi Fish Biryani Recipe
- Karachi Fish Kabab Recipe
- Karachi Sweet and Sour Fish Recipe
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the skillet.
Q: Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream sauce?
A: You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. Note that this will alter the flavor profile.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components separately and combine them just before serving for optimal texture.
Q: What other proteins can I use?
A: Scallops or chunks of firm white fish like cod can be excellent alternatives to shrimp.
