If you’re looking for a dish that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to make, you’ve landed on the right recipe!
Shrimp and gnocchi with garlic parmesan is like a cozy hug in a bowl – comforting, creamy, and oh-so-delicious.
This dish is perfect for a romantic dinner or just a satisfying weeknight meal.
Let’s dive into how to whip up this culinary delight!
What You’ll Need
Before we start cooking, let’s gather our ingredients and tools. The better your ingredients, the better your dish will turn out!
Fresh Ingredients
- Gnocchi: You can use store-bought or homemade gnocchi.
- Shrimp: Fresh, peeled, and deveined shrimp is ideal.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for that rich taste.
- Butter and olive oil: For cooking and adding flavor.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley or basil for garnish.
Kitchen Tools
- A large skillet
- A pot for boiling the gnocchi
- A spatula or wooden spoon
- A grater for the parmesan cheese
The Star of the Dish: Gnocchi
Gnocchi might just be the cutest pasta around! These little dumplings are soft and pillowy, making them a perfect partner for shrimp and sauce.
What is Gnocchi?
Gnocchi is an Italian pasta made primarily from potatoes and flour. They are small, dumpling-like shapes that cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully.
Types of Gnocchi
You can find various types of gnocchi, from potato to ricotta. For this dish, potato gnocchi works best, as it complements the shrimp wonderfully.
Preparing the Shrimp
Now, let’s talk shrimp! These little guys pack a punch of flavor and protein. Properly prepping them is key to achieving that perfect dish.
Choosing the Right Shrimp
Look for shrimp that are fresh and have a slight ocean scent. The size of shrimp is also essential—jumbo or large shrimp are recommended for this recipe, as they hold up well during cooking and provide a satisfying bite.
Cleaning and Marinating
Rinse your shrimp under cold water, then pat them dry with a paper towel. To amp up the flavor, marinate them in a mix of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for about 15 minutes. This will give your shrimp an extra layer of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Making the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Now, let’s create that luscious garlic parmesan sauce that will make your dish shine!
Ingredients for the Sauce
You’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Step-by-Step Sauce Preparation
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add Garlic: Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it; burnt garlic can turn bitter!
- Pour in the Cream: Add the heavy cream and let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Cheesy Goodness: Stir in the parmesan cheese, mixing until it melts into a creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking the Gnocchi and Shrimp
Now it’s time to bring everything together for a delicious meal.
Cooking Gnocchi Perfectly
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes until they float to the surface. Once done, drain them and set aside.
Combining Shrimp and Gnocchi
In the same skillet where you made the sauce, add the marinated shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Then, gently fold in the cooked gnocchi, coating them with the creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Toss everything together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Your dish is nearly ready, but a few finishing touches will take it to the next level.
Garnishing Your Dish
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top for a pop of color and freshness. You can also add more grated parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent!
Pairing with Wine
A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with shrimp and gnocchi. The acidity of the wine complements the richness of the sauce beautifully.
Tips for Perfecting Your Dish
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and high-quality parmesan make all the difference.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid rubbery shrimp.
- Customize the Sauce: Feel free to add more garlic or even some lemon juice for brightness!
Conclusion
And there you have it! Shrimp and gnocchi with garlic parmesan is a delightful dish that’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table.
Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, this meal will have everyone asking for seconds.
Give it a try, and enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness!
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes! Frozen gnocchi works perfectly. Just follow the package instructions for cooking, and you’ll be all set.
What if I can’t find fresh shrimp?
You can use frozen shrimp as a substitute. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently before adding the shrimp and gnocchi.
What sides go well with shrimp and gnocchi?
A simple salad or some garlic bread would pair beautifully with this dish. They’ll balance out the richness of the gnocchi and shrimp nicely!
Creamy Shrimp and Gnocchi with Garlic Parmesan
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!
Made this quickly for dinner tonight and it’s so delicious! I was hesitant with how simple the ingredients were but they make a very flavorful meal! Keeping this in our rotation for sure.