Sheet-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp and Gnocchi Delight

Are you craving a quick and tasty meal? Look no further than my Sheet-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp and Gnocchi Delight! This dish combines shrimp and gnocchi in a rich garlic butter sauce, all made on one pan for easy cleanup. In this post, I’ll share the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and handy tips to help you create this delightful dish. Let’s dive into a meal that’s both simple and delicious!
Ingredients
Complete ingredient list for Sheet-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp and Gnocchi
To make this tasty dish, you will need:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
These ingredients work well together. The shrimp and gnocchi create a lovely base. The garlic butter adds rich flavor. Cherry tomatoes bring freshness, while spinach adds color and nutrients.
Optional ingredients and substitutions
You can change this recipe based on what you have. For instance:
- Use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter taste.
- Swap shrimp for chicken or tofu for a different protein.
- Try other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.
These options let you customize your meal. You can make it your own while keeping it easy.
Fresh vs. frozen shrimp: What to use?
Fresh shrimp is often best for flavor and texture. However, frozen shrimp works well too. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them first. You can do this by placing them in cold water. This will help keep your shrimp juicy.
Both fresh and frozen shrimp will cook well in this dish. Choose what fits your schedule and budget. Enjoy the cooking process!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the oven and baking sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This helps cook the shrimp and gnocchi evenly. Next, grab a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and prevents sticking.
Making the garlic butter mixture
In a large bowl, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. You can do this in the microwave or on the stovetop. Once melted, add 6 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you want a little heat. Mix in salt and pepper to taste. Stir until all the ingredients blend well, creating a rich garlic butter sauce.
Combining shrimp and gnocchi with seasonings
Now, add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp and 1 pound of potato gnocchi to the bowl with the garlic butter. Toss everything together until the shrimp and gnocchi are fully coated. This step ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
Baking tips for perfect texture
Spread the shrimp and gnocchi mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure not to overcrowd it; this will help everything bake properly. Scatter 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes over the top and drizzle with a little olive oil if you like. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. The shrimp should turn pink and the gnocchi should be golden and slightly crispy. In the last 5 minutes, add 3 cups of fresh spinach to the sheet. Spread it over the top, and let it wilt in the oven. Once done, remove it and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Don’t forget to serve with lemon wedges for a fresh, zesty flavor!
Tips & Tricks
How to achieve perfectly tender shrimp
To get tender shrimp, start with fresh, high-quality shrimp. Peel and devein them before cooking. Cook them quickly on high heat. This keeps them juicy. If they overcook, they become rubbery. Bake them for 15-20 minutes at 425°F. Watch closely until they turn pink and opaque. This is the best sign they are ready.
Ensuring gnocchi is crispy on the outside
For crispy gnocchi, use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Toss the gnocchi with garlic butter to coat them well. Spread them out in a single layer on the sheet. This allows heat to circulate. Bake them alongside the shrimp. The hot oven will crisp them nicely in 15-20 minutes.
Flavor enhancement ideas (extra herbs, spices)
You can boost flavor by adding fresh herbs. Try basil or thyme for a new twist. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish. You can also mix in some capers for a salty kick. If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes. For a smoky touch, try smoked paprika. Experimenting can lead to delightful surprises.
Variations
Vegetarian version using plant-based alternatives
You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Swap shrimp for firm tofu or tempeh. Both options soak up flavor well. Use the same garlic butter mix. Toss in your gnocchi and let it bake. Add veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for a colorful touch.
Seafood mix: Adding scallops or fish
Want a seafood mix? You can add scallops or fish. Scallops cook quickly, so add them at the same time as shrimp. For fish, choose firm types like salmon or cod. Cut them into bite-sized pieces. Mix them in the garlic butter blend, then bake as usual. You’ll get a rich and tasty dish.
Spicing it up with different sauce bases
Try different sauce bases for a twist. You can use pesto instead of garlic butter. Just toss your shrimp and gnocchi in the pesto before baking. For a creamy option, mix in Alfredo sauce. This will make your dish rich and savory. No matter the base, you can create your own unique flavor.
Storage Info
Best ways to store leftovers
To keep your Sheet-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp and Gnocchi fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. Make sure to cool the dish to room temperature first. This helps prevent moisture build-up. Place the container in the fridge. Your leftovers will last about 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing.
Reheating tips for quality results
When it’s time to reheat, I recommend using the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the dish in a baking pan and cover it with foil. This keeps the shrimp and gnocchi moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave small portions. Just cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out.
Freezing instructions and how to thaw
For freezing, pack the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container. Make sure it’s airtight to prevent freezer burn. Label it with the date. It can freeze well for up to 2 months. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave on defrost. After thawing, reheat as mentioned above for the best taste.
FAQs
How long does it take to make Sheet-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp and Gnocchi?
It takes about 30 minutes to make this dish. You will spend 10 minutes prepping. The cooking time is around 15 to 20 minutes. This quick recipe makes it easy to enjoy a tasty meal on busy nights.
Can I use store-bought garlic butter instead?
Yes, you can use store-bought garlic butter. It saves time and adds flavor. Just make sure it has good quality. This way, your meal stays simple and quick. If you like, you can add extra garlic for a stronger taste.
What can I serve with this dish?
You can serve this dish with a fresh salad or crusty bread. A light green salad pairs well with the rich flavors. Crusty bread is great for soaking up extra sauce. You might also enjoy a glass of white wine for a special touch.
In this post, we covered how to make Sheet-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp and Gnocchi. You learned about the ingredient list and helpful tips for baking. I shared ways to vary the recipe and how to store leftovers. Remember to use fresh shrimp for the best taste. Experiment with toppings to find your favorite flavor. Cooking should be fun and tasty! Enjoy your meal and share it with friends or family.
