Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp and Gnocchi – A Luxurious Yet Easy Dinner

If you’re looking for a comforting, restaurant-quality meal you can make in under 30 minutes, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp and Gnocchi recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. It’s rich, flavorful, and irresistibly creamy—perfect for cozy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress without the stress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes using simple ingredients.
Rich and Creamy: The Parmesan garlic cream sauce is decadent, smooth, and packed with flavor.
Comfort Food at Its Best: Gnocchi offers a soft, pillowy texture that pairs beautifully with succulent shrimp.
Customizable: You can adjust the spice level or add vegetables to make it your own.

Whether you’re a fan of Italian cuisine or just love shrimp, this dish brings both elegance and heartiness to your dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Shrimp and Gnocchi:

1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tsp dried basil (optional)
1 tsp dried oregano (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce:

2 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Gnocchi

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the top—this usually takes just 2–3 minutes. Drain and set aside. Save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water in case you want to thin out the sauce later.

Tip: Don’t overcook the gnocchi or they’ll become mushy. As soon as they float, they’re done!

2. Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and butter. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and optionally basil and oregano. Add shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Note: Shrimp cook very quickly—don’t walk away or they’ll turn rubbery!

3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce

Using the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and garlic powder. Stir and let simmer for 3–4 minutes to thicken. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Too thick? Add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

4. Combine Everything

Add the cooked gnocchi into the sauce and toss gently to coat. Return the shrimp to the skillet and stir everything together. Let cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until everything is hot and well combined.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Optional Add-Ins and Variations

Vegetables: Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.
Protein Swap: Try grilled chicken or scallops instead of shrimp.
Cheese Boost: Add a mix of mozzarella or Asiago for a deeper cheesy flavor.

Storage Tips

Leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

Nutritional Highlights

This dish is high in protein thanks to shrimp and rich in calcium from the Parmesan cheese. While it’s an indulgent meal, you can lighten it up by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or reducing the butter.

Final Thoughts

Shrimp and Gnocchi in Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce is the kind of dish that turns a regular dinner into a memorable experience. It’s elegant, rich, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to wow. Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie