Shrimp Scampi Gnocchi is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the flavors of tender, pillowy gnocchi with succulent shrimp in a buttery garlic sauce. The gnocchi absorbs all the flavors from the garlicky, lemon-butter sauce, making each bite a flavorful explosion. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion when you want to impress without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Shrimp Scampi Gnocchi
This dish brings together two crowd favorites: shrimp scampi and gnocchi. The shrimp are sautéed in a rich, buttery garlic sauce with a hint of lemon, while the gnocchi adds a hearty, comforting element to the meal. I love how this dish feels fancy but is actually so simple to prepare.
The gnocchi helps soak up all the delicious flavors of the scampi sauce, making every bite incredibly flavorful. Plus, the shrimp cooks quickly, so you can have this dish on the table in less than 30 minutes. It’s a satisfying and elegant meal that doesn’t require hours of prep time.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Gnocchi
This Shrimp Scampi Gnocchi is a one-pan wonder! The combination of tender gnocchi and garlicky shrimp creates a comforting and indulgent meal that’s perfect for any occasion. I personally love how the lemon and garlic balance out the richness of the butter, giving it a light and fresh flavor.
Not only is it incredibly flavorful, but it’s also super easy to make. The shrimp cooks quickly, and you can use store-bought gnocchi to save time. This dish is also highly customizable—feel free to add some spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra veggies or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for added richness.
Main Ingredients in Shrimp Scampi Gnocchi
- Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp will work for this recipe. I prefer large shrimp that are peeled and deveined for convenience.
- Gnocchi: You can use store-bought gnocchi or make your own if you have the time. The gnocchi adds a soft, chewy texture that pairs well with the shrimp.
- Butter and Olive Oil: The combination of butter and olive oil creates a rich and flavorful base for the scampi sauce.
- Garlic: Garlic is essential for that classic scampi flavor. I like to use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemon juice and zest add a bright, tangy flavor that balances out the richness of the butter.
- White Pepper: Adds a subtle kick to the dish without overpowering the other flavors.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the final dish.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Helps create a light sauce that ties all the flavors together.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Shrimp Scampi Gnocchi
Here’s how to make this flavorful Shrimp Scampi Gnocchi:
- Prepare the Shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, thaw them under cold water. Pat them dry with a paper towel, and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface. Drain the gnocchi and set aside.
- Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp to the pan and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Add the Lemon and Broth: Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken or vegetable broth. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Combine with Gnocchi and Shrimp: Add the cooked gnocchi and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss everything together until the gnocchi and shrimp are coated in the sauce.
- Season and Garnish: Season with salt, white pepper, and fresh parsley. Stir everything gently to combine, then remove from heat.
- Serve: Plate the Shrimp Scampi Gnocchi and garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi Gnocchi
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them! They should be pink and opaque but still tender. Overcooking will make them tough and rubbery.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, lemon, and parsley give this dish a bright, fresh flavor. Don’t skip these ingredients for the best result.
- Customize the Dish: Feel free to add extra veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes to the skillet when making the garlic sauce. They’ll add flavor and texture without much extra work.
How to Store and Serve
Shrimp Scampi Gnocchi is best served immediately, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the dish gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the sauce from drying out
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