Creamy Shrimp and Gnocchi with Garlic Parmesan

This Creamy Shrimp and Gnocchi with Garlic Parmesan is the kind of dinner that feels special but comes together quickly. Soft, pillowy gnocchi are coated in a rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce, then tossed with juicy shrimp cooked just until tender. Every bite is creamy, savory, and deeply satisfying.

It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want comfort food, but it’s also elegant enough to serve for date night or guests. The flavors are familiar, cozy, and indulgent without being heavy or complicated.

If you love creamy skillet dinners like Easy Lasagna Cups or bold comfort meals such as Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili, this recipe belongs in your regular rotation.

Why This Shrimp and Gnocchi Recipe Works

This recipe is all about balance and timing.

• Shrimp cook quickly and stay juicy
• Gnocchi absorb the sauce without turning mushy
• Garlic and Parmesan add deep savory flavor
• Cream creates richness without overpowering

Nothing is fussy, and everything cooks in one pan after the gnocchi are boiled.

What Is Gnocchi?

Gnocchi are small Italian dumplings, usually made from potatoes. They’re softer than pasta and slightly chewy, making them perfect for creamy sauces.

You’ll find shelf stable gnocchi in most grocery stores near the pasta aisle. Refrigerated gnocchi also works well in this recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Shrimp and Gnocchi

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  Use raw shrimp, not pre-cooked.
• 16 ounces potato gnocchi
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
  Adds mild warmth and color.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
  Helps loosen the sauce.
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Optional Add Ins

• Fresh spinach
• Mushrooms
• Sun dried tomatoes
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

Shrimp:
Large or jumbo shrimp work best. Smaller shrimp can overcook quickly.

Cream:
Heavy cream gives the best texture. Half-and-half works, but the sauce will be thinner.

Parmesan:
Always grate fresh. Pre-shredded cheese won’t melt smoothly.

Gnocchi:
Shelf-stable, refrigerated, or homemade all work.

How to Make Creamy Shrimp and Gnocchi

This recipe takes about 30 minutes total.

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook gnocchi according to package directions (usually 2–3 minutes).
When they float to the top, drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Shrimp

Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add shrimp in a single layer.

Cook 2–3 minutes per side, just until pink and opaque.
Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Base

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in chicken broth and scrape up browned bits.
Add heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.

Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes, until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Add Parmesan

Reduce heat to low.
Stir in Parmesan cheese gradually until melted and smooth.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add cooked gnocchi to the sauce and toss gently.
Return shrimp to the pan and stir to coat.

Simmer for 1–2 minutes, just until everything is heated through.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning.
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and extra Parmesan.

Serve immediately.

Texture and Flavor

• Shrimp: Juicy, tender, and lightly seasoned
• Gnocchi: Soft, pillowy, and coated in sauce
• Sauce: Creamy, garlicky, and rich without being heavy

It tastes like something you’d order at a restaurant.

Pro Tips for Best Results

• Don’t overcook shrimp
• Use freshly grated Parmesan
• Keep heat low when adding cheese
• Salt your gnocchi water well
• Serve immediately for best texture

These steps make a big difference.

Easy Variations

Spinach Shrimp Gnocchi

Stir in fresh spinach until wilted.

Mushroom Garlic Gnocchi

Add sautéed mushrooms before the cream.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Gnocchi

Finish with lemon zest and juice for brightness.

Spicy Version

Increase red pepper flakes or add chili oil.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is rich, so keep sides simple:

• Garlic bread or crusty bread
• Light green salad
• Roasted asparagus or broccoli

Perfect for a complete meal.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

Make Ahead

The sauce is best fresh, but you can prep shrimp and grate cheese ahead of time.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat.
Add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

Avoid high heat, which can overcook shrimp.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 520–580
• Protein: 32–36g
• Fat: 28–32g
• Carbs: 38–42g

A filling, high protein comfort meal.

Common Mistakes & Fixes

Sauce too thick:
Add broth or cream, a little at a time.

Sauce grainy:
Heat was too high when adding cheese. Lower heat and stir gently.

Rubbery shrimp:
Shrimp were overcooked. Cook just until opaque.

Bland flavor:
Add more salt or Parmesan.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry.

Can I use milk instead of cream?
You can, but the sauce will be thinner.

Is gnocchi pasta?
It’s a dumpling, but used like pasta.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes. Use a large skillet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One pan comfort food
• Restaurant quality flavor
• Quick and easy
• Family friendly
• Perfect for weeknights

It’s indulgent without being complicated.

Conclusion

This Creamy Shrimp and Gnocchi with Garlic Parmesan is rich, cozy, and incredibly satisfying. Juicy shrimp, tender gnocchi, and a silky garlic Parmesan sauce come together in a dish that feels special every time you make it.

If you love creamy comfort dinners like One Pot Creamy Sausage and Potato Soup
or bold, satisfying meals such as Slow Cooker Sausage Lentil Soup, this recipe belongs in your regular rotation.