Shrimp With Gnocchi [A Creamy Italian-Inspired Comfort Dish]

A bowl of shrimp with gnocchi brings the perfect balance of elegance and comfort to the table. The tender potato dumplings soak up a rich, creamy sauce, while juicy shrimp add a touch of freshness from the sea.

Each bite feels indulgent yet light, making this dish an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The flavors come together quickly, giving you a restaurant-worthy meal without hours of effort in the kitchen.

Fresh garlic, Parmesan, and herbs elevate the sauce, while a squeeze of lemon brightens the entire dish. Pair it with a crisp salad or warm bread for a complete meal that satisfies every craving.

Shrimp with gnocchi doesn’t just feed the appetite it creates a moment to savor with every forkful. Whether shared with family or enjoyed as a cozy dinner for one, this recipe turns a simple night into something memorable.

Shrimp With Gnocchi Recipe

Soft pillowy gnocchi paired with tender shrimp makes a warm and comforting meal. The flavors are simple yet rich, combining garlic, butter, and a light cream sauce that coats every bite. This dish feels special but takes less than 30 minutes to prepare.

Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. The mix of textures makes every forkful satisfying. Shrimp brings a light seafood flavor while gnocchi keeps it filling. A sprinkle of parmesan and fresh herbs ties everything together beautifully.

Ingredients

For the main dish:

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 pound potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• ½ cup heavy cream

• ½ cup chicken broth

• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the gnocchi

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

• Add gnocchi and cook until they float to the top, about 2–3 minutes.

• Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the shrimp

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

• Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink, about 2–3 minutes per side.

• Remove shrimp from the skillet and keep aside.

Step 3: Prepare the sauce

• In the same skillet, melt butter.

• Add garlic and onion, cook until soft and fragrant.

• Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well.

• Mix in Italian seasoning and parmesan cheese until smooth.

Step 4: Combine everything

• Add cooked gnocchi into the sauce and toss to coat.

• Return shrimp to the skillet and stir gently.

• Simmer for 2 minutes until flavors blend.

Step 5: Serve

• Sprinkle parsley on top.

• Serve hot with extra parmesan if desired.

Top Tips

• Use raw shrimp for better flavor. Pre-cooked shrimp can turn rubbery.

• Do not overcook gnocchi. They are ready once they float.

• Reserve a little pasta water in case you want to thin the sauce.

• Fresh herbs add brightness, so don’t skip the parsley.

Variations

• Tomato base: Replace cream with tomato sauce for a lighter taste.

• Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes while cooking the shrimp.

• Cheese swap: Use pecorino or asiago instead of parmesan.

• Veggie boost: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: ~420

• Protein: 28g

• Carbohydrates: 38g

• Fat: 16g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 2g

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw and pat dry before cooking.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut milk instead of cream and skip the cheese.

What side dishes go well with this?
A fresh green salad or garlic bread makes a great match.

Can I store leftovers?
Yes, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Conclusion

Shrimp with gnocchi brings together creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and soft dumplings in one comforting bowl. It is quick to prepare yet full of flavor.

The recipe can easily be adjusted to suit different tastes, making it a flexible dish for any home cook. Serve it fresh, enjoy the warmth, and savor each bite.