Shrimp Scampi Gnocchi Recipe

This Shrimp Scampi Gnocchi combines tender, pillowy gnocchi with succulent shrimp in a garlicky, buttery sauce. It’s a perfect fusion of classic Italian flavors with a quick and easy twist, making it ideal for a comforting weeknight meal or an elegant dinner party. The bright lemon and fresh parsley bring a burst of freshness that complements the rich, savory sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Gnocchi Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• Comforting & Delicious: The buttery, garlicky scampi sauce coats the gnocchi and shrimp perfectly, creating a comforting and indulgent meal.
• Restaurant-Quality: This dish feels like something you’d order at a fine Italian restaurant, but you can make it at home with ease.
• Versatile: You can use store-bought or homemade gnocchi, and the flavors can be easily customized with your favorite herbs.

Key Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi Gnocchi

1. Gnocchi

• Soft potato gnocchi act as the base of the dish, soaking up the delicious scampi sauce. You can use store-bought gnocchi or make your own from scratch.

2. Shrimp

• Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are ideal for this recipe. Fresh or frozen shrimp both work well, just make sure to thaw frozen shrimp before cooking.

3. Garlic

• Fresh minced garlic is essential for the scampi sauce, bringing a savory depth of flavor to the dish.

4. Butter & Olive Oil

• A combination of butter and olive oil creates a rich, luscious sauce that coats the gnocchi and shrimp.

5. Lemon

• Fresh lemon juice adds brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the butter and garlic.

6. White Wine or Chicken Broth

• White wine adds a subtle depth of flavor to the sauce. If you prefer not to use alcohol, chicken broth is a great substitute.

7. Parsley

• Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceous notes, balancing the flavors of the dish.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Gnocchi

This dish comes together in just a few easy steps:

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound of gnocchi and cook according to package instructions (usually 2-3 minutes, until they float to the top). Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

• While the gnocchi cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Scampi Sauce

• In the same skillet, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in 1/4 cup of white wine (or chicken broth) and the juice of 1 lemon. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Combine Everything

• Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with the drained gnocchi. Toss everything in the sauce until well coated. Stir in 2 more tablespoons of butter for extra richness.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the dish. Optionally, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side.

Tips for Making the Best Shrimp Scampi Gnocchi

1. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp

• Shrimp cook quickly and can become tough if overcooked. Make sure to remove them from the skillet as soon as they turn pink and opaque.

2. Use Fresh Garlic

• Fresh garlic adds a robust flavor to the sauce. Avoid using pre-minced garlic for the best taste.

3. Customize the Wine or Broth

• White wine adds depth, but chicken broth is a great non-alcoholic substitute. Either option enhances the flavor of the scampi sauce.

4. Use Store-Bought or Homemade Gnocchi

• If you’re short on time, store-bought gnocchi is perfectly fine for this recipe. If you want to go the extra mile, homemade gnocchi will make the dish even more special.

5. Add Extra Flavor

• For a spicy kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce. You can also add grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Shrimp Scampi Gnocchi

• Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy twist.

2. Creamy Shrimp Scampi Gnocchi

• Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.

3. Shrimp Scampi Gnocchi with Vegetables

• Add sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini to the dish for added color and nutrition.

4. Herb-Infused Shrimp Scampi Gnocchi

• Add a mix of fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano to enhance the flavors.

5. Lemon Garlic Parmesan Gnocchi

• Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the finished dish for an extra layer of flavor and richness.

FAQs: Shrimp Scampi Gnocchi

1. Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?

• Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw frozen shrimp quickly by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 10-15 minutes.

2. What Can I Use Instead of White Wine?

• Chicken broth is a great substitute for white wine. It will still add flavor and moisture to the sauce without the alcohol.

3. How Do I Store Leftovers?

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

4. Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?

• Absolutely! While gnocchi is delicious in this recipe, you can also use linguine, fettuccine, or any other pasta you prefer.

5. What Can I Serve with Shrimp Scampi Gnocchi?

• This dish pairs well with a light side salad or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.