Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Gnocchi
If you’re craving a dish that combines the luxurious creaminess of a rich sauce with tender shrimp and pillowy gnocchi, then this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Gnocchi is your new go-to comfort meal. It’s a perfect blend of bold flavors and smooth textures that come together effortlessly in one pan. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive plate to serve guests, this recipe delivers every time. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy, slightly sweet depth, while the garlic and Italian seasoning build a fragrant, savory base. And of course, the Parmesan cheese melts into the sauce, creating that velvety finish we all love.
Why This Recipe Is Reliable
This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Gnocchi recipe is built on simplicity and flavor harmony. It uses accessible ingredients that most home cooks have or can easily find at their local store. The method is straightforward, avoiding any complicated techniques or long marinating times, which means you can have dinner ready in about 30 minutes. The recipe balances the richness of cream and Parmesan with the brightness of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil, resulting in a well-rounded dish that’s never too heavy. Plus, cooking the shrimp just right ensures they stay juicy and tender, not rubbery, making this meal reliably delicious every time.
The Ingredient Lineup
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined – Fresh or thawed frozen shrimp work best for juicy bites.
- 1 package gnocchi (16 oz) – Store-bought potato gnocchi provide soft, pillowy texture.
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped – These add a tangy-sweet punch to the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Creates the luscious base for the sauce.
- 1 cup chicken broth – Adds depth and balances the creaminess.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – For that essential aromatic kick.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used to sauté the shrimp and garlic.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that rounds out the flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper to taste – To enhance all the flavors.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds sharpness and melts beautifully into the sauce.
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish – Bright and fresh, they finish the dish perfectly.
Must-Have Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan – For cooking shrimp and making the sauce in one place.
- Medium pot – To boil the gnocchi.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – For stirring the sauce gently.
- Colander – To drain the gnocchi after boiling.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient amounts.
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Gnocchi: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the gnocchi. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface. Use a slotted spoon or colander to drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp seasoned with salt, pepper, and half the Italian seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and the remaining Italian seasoning. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, followed by the drained gnocchi. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir gently to coat everything in that creamy, flavorful sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the creamy sun-dried tomato shrimp gnocchi to plates or a large serving dish. Garnish with torn fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Ingredient Flex Options
- Swap heavy cream for coconut cream or a cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative.
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version.
- Replace shrimp with chicken cutlets for a heartier protein option, similar to the Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Cutlets.
- Add a handful of spinach or kale for extra greens and nutrition.
- Use sun-dried tomato pesto instead of chopped tomatoes for an even more concentrated flavor.
Slip-Ups to Skip
- Don’t overcook the shrimp – they become rubbery if left too long in the pan or sauce.
- Avoid boiling gnocchi too long – once they float, they’re done and should be drained immediately.
- Be cautious with salt – sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan already add saltiness.
- Let the sauce simmer gently; boiling aggressively can cause the cream to separate.
Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the sauce from breaking. You may need to add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the dairy and gnocchi texture, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Gnocchi Q&A
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture, which can interfere with sautéing and the sauce consistency.
What type of sun-dried tomatoes work best?
Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil tend to have a richer flavor and softer texture, making them ideal for this recipe. If you use dry-packed tomatoes, rehydrate them in warm water first and drain well.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the regular gnocchi for a gluten-free variety, which is widely available in stores. Just follow the package instructions for cooking.
Can I make this recipe with pasta instead of gnocchi?
Definitely! Penne or rigatoni work well as substitutes. If you want to explore similar flavor profiles with a different pasta, check out the Creamy Tomato Basil Shrimp Pasta recipe.
Healthy-ish Favorites
- Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Cutlets – Another creamy, protein-packed dish with a flavorful twist.
- Creamy Tomato Basil Shrimp Pasta – A vibrant and herbaceous pasta that’s quick to make.
- Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl – Loaded with nutrients and perfect for a lighter meal.
- One Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Vegetables – Simple, fresh, and full of flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Gnocchi recipe is a shining example of how a few quality ingredients can come together to create something truly special. The balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors paired with tender shrimp and soft gnocchi makes it a standout dish that’s both satisfying and elegant. It’s a meal that feels indulgent without being complicated, perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties. Plus, with plenty of room for customization and swaps, you can tailor it to your tastes or dietary needs. So next time you want a fuss-free but impressive dinner, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
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Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Gnocchi
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the gnocchi. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface. Use a slotted spoon or colander to drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp seasoned with salt, pepper, and half the Italian seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and the remaining Italian seasoning. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, followed by the drained gnocchi. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir gently to coat everything in that creamy, flavorful sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Transfer the creamy sun-dried tomato shrimp gnocchi to plates or a large serving dish. Garnish with torn fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Don’t overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Drain gnocchi immediately once they float to avoid overcooking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to preserve sauce texture.
