Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Gnocchi (Skillet Dinner)
If you’re craving a dish that’s rich, comforting, and bursting with flavor, look no further than this Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Gnocchi (Skillet Dinner). It combines tender shrimp with pillowy gnocchi, all enveloped in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce dotted with fresh spinach and sweet cherry tomatoes. This one-pan wonder is not only a feast for the senses but also incredibly straightforward to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impressive weekend dinners. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just someone who appreciates a hearty, Italian-inspired meal, this skillet dinner is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
Why It’s My Go-To
What makes this Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Gnocchi (Skillet Dinner) my go-to recipe is its incredible balance of flavors and textures. The shrimp are juicy and perfectly cooked, while the gnocchi adds a satisfying bite that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully. Plus, the fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes add vibrant color and a hint of brightness, keeping the dish from feeling too heavy. It’s all made in one skillet, which means less clean-up and more time to enjoy your meal. I also love how versatile this recipe is — you can easily swap ingredients to suit what you have on hand or what’s in season. If you’re a fan of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Thighs Skillet, this shrimp version is a delightful twist that’s just as satisfying.
What Goes In
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined – Fresh or frozen shrimp, thawed, work great here.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the shrimp and garlic.
- 2 cups gnocchi – Store-bought potato gnocchi makes this recipe quick and easy.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Adds that essential fragrant punch.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – Sweetness and acidity to brighten the cream sauce.
- 1 cup fresh spinach – A healthy, colorful addition that wilts perfectly into the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream – The base of that luscious, creamy sauce.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated – Adds a sharp, savory depth to the creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme for authentic flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings for balance.
- Fresh basil for garnish – Brightens the dish and adds a fresh herbal note.
Equipment Breakdown
- Large skillet or sauté pan – A wide, heavy-bottomed pan works best for even cooking and to fit all the ingredients.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – For stirring the sauce and gently tossing the gnocchi.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To keep the seasoning and liquids balanced.
- Knife and cutting board – For prepping garlic, tomatoes, and basil.
- Grater – To freshly grate the Parmesan cheese for maximum flavor.
Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Gnocchi (Skillet Dinner) Cooking Guide
Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then cook for about 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. This step ensures the shrimp are perfectly cooked and not overdone once combined with the sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi
In the same skillet, add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually 3-4 minutes, until they are golden and slightly crispy on the outside. This adds a lovely texture contrast to the soft gnocchi inside.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts and tomatoes soften slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese
Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Stir to combine, then add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens, about 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, gently folding them into the creamy sauce with the gnocchi. Let everything heat through for another minute or two. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
In-Season Swaps
- Cherry tomatoes: Swap with sun-dried tomatoes in cooler months for a richer flavor.
- Spinach: Use kale or Swiss chard if you prefer heartier greens.
- Heavy cream: Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free alternative, adjusting the seasoning accordingly.
- Parmesan cheese: Nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor for a vegetarian twist.
- Shrimp: Substitute with chicken breast for a variation similar to Creamy Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake.
Frequent Missteps to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp – Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if left too long in the pan or sauce.
- Skipping the sauté step for gnocchi – Browning the gnocchi adds essential texture and flavor.
- Adding cheese too early – Parmesan should be added toward the end to prevent clumping or grainy texture.
- Over-thickening the sauce – Keep an eye on the cream as it simmers; if it gets too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it.
Storing Tips & Timelines
Store leftover Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Gnocchi (Skillet Dinner) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because shrimp can become tough when reheated, it’s best to reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of cream or water to bring back the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid microwave reheating as it may overcook the shrimp. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be made ahead and refrigerated before adding the shrimp, which can be quickly cooked right before serving.
Helpful Q&A
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. This prevents excess water from diluting your sauce and helps achieve a nice sear on the shrimp.
Is gnocchi gluten-free?
Most store-bought gnocchi contains wheat flour, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can find gluten-free gnocchi varieties made from potatoes and alternative flours at specialty stores, or make your own at home.
Can I prepare this dish without heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream cheese to maintain creaminess, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream works well and adds a subtle sweetness that complements the tomatoes.
What can I serve alongside this skillet dinner?
This creamy, hearty dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. If you want to keep it extra indulgent, some crusty bread is perfect for soaking up every bit of the sauce. Fans of similar recipes might also enjoy the flavors in the Creamy Pesto Chicken Gnocchi Skillet, which offers a herby twist on the gnocchi skillet concept.
More from the Kitchen
- Creamy Tuscan Chicken Thighs Skillet – A cozy skillet meal with tender chicken and a dreamy sauce.
- Creamy Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Bake – Baked comfort food with chicken, gnocchi, and a rich Tuscan cream sauce.
- Creamy Pesto Chicken Gnocchi Skillet – A vibrant, herb-infused gnocchi skillet that’s quick and delicious.
Bring It to the Table
Serving your Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Gnocchi (Skillet Dinner) straight from the pan adds to its rustic charm. A scattering of fresh basil leaves on top not only looks inviting but also imparts a fresh herbal aroma that complements the creamy sauce perfectly. Pair the dish with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon to cut through the richness. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet dinner at home or sharing with friends, this skillet meal delivers comfort and elegance with every bite.
For those who love the creamy, herbaceous flavors of Tuscan-inspired dishes, this shrimp gnocchi skillet is a must-try. It’s quick, flavorful, and makes for an unforgettable meal that doesn’t skimp on indulgence or nutrition. Next time you want something special but simple, give this recipe a whirl and savor the magic of creamy, garlicky shrimp with tender gnocchi in every forkful.
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Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Gnocchi (Skillet Dinner)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Add peeled and deveined shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, about 3-4 minutes, until golden and slightly crispy.
- Lower heat to medium and add minced garlic to skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add halved cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach. Cook until spinach wilts and tomatoes soften, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in heavy cream and sprinkle Italian seasoning. Stir to combine. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir continuously until cheese melts and sauce thickens, about 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Return cooked shrimp to skillet and gently fold into creamy sauce with gnocchi. Heat through for 1-2 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Do not overcook shrimp to avoid rubbery texture.
- Brown gnocchi for added texture and flavor.
- Add Parmesan cheese towards the end to prevent clumping.
- Thin sauce with water or broth if it becomes too thick.
- Store leftovers in airtight container and reheat gently on stovetop with splash of cream or water.
