Creamy Parmesan Gnocchi with Shrimp
A quick and comforting dish featuring soft gnocchi and succulent shrimp in a rich, creamy sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta and proteins
- 1 package (16 ounces) gnocchi
- 1 pound fresh raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Cooking fats
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter 1 tablespoon for shrimp, 2 tablespoons for sauce
Vegetables and seasonings
- 4 cups baby spinach or chopped kale (optional) You may choose to include this or not.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt to taste
- Fresh ground black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- Crushed red pepper for garnish (optional) Add for a little kick.
Sauce base
- 1.75 cups half & half
- ⅓ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese Fresh is recommended for best flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook gnocchi according to the package directions and drain.
- While the gnocchi cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, then cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the shrimp turns pink.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Return the skillet to heat and add in the baby spinach or kale, if using. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until wilted. Remove the greens from the skillet and set them aside.
Making the Sauce
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter back in the skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook for about 20 seconds, or until fragrant, stirring constantly.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, or until it turns golden.
- Slowly whisk in the half & half and bring to a simmer, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes until it thickens.
- Stir in the parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
Combining
- Add the shrimp, greens, and gnocchi to the sauce, and toss to combine.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
To store leftovers, place in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat gently, adding splash of milk or cream if needed.