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Close-up view of Creamy Shrimp Gnocchi with tender shrimp, spinach, and sauce in a bowl

Creamy Lemon-Garlic Shrimp Gnocchi

This delectable shrimp gnocchi recipe features plump, tender shrimp and pillowy gnocchi coated in a rich, creamy lemon-garlic sauce. It's a satisfying and elegant meal that comes together quickly, perfect for a weeknight or a special occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired, Seafood
Calories: 580

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp and Gnocchi
  • 1 lb Shrimp peeled, deveined, tails on or off
  • 1 tsp Salt divided
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper divided
  • 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes optional
  • 16 oz Potato Gnocchi shelf-stable or refrigerated
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil divided
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter
  • 1 Shallot finely minced (about 1/4 cup)
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup Chicken Broth or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream
  • 1 Lemon zested and juiced
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese grated, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley chopped, plus more for garnish

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Large Pot
  • Cutting Board
  • Sharp Knife
  • Microplane or Zester

Method
 

Prepare Ingredients
  1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season shrimp with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
  2. Mince the shallot and garlic. Zest the lemon, then halve and juice it. Chop the fresh parsley.
Cook Gnocchi and Shrimp
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package directions, typically 2-3 minutes, until they float to the surface. Drain well and set aside.
  2. While gnocchi cooks, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, just until pink and opaque. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce
  1. Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp butter to the same skillet. Once butter is melted, add the minced shallot and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly reduced.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream and lemon zest. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine and Serve
  1. Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the lemon juice, grated Parmesan cheese, remaining 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  2. Add the cooked gnocchi and shrimp to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  3. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

For a touch of freshness, you can add a handful of baby spinach or cherry tomatoes when you add the gnocchi to the sauce. This dish is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.