Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Gnocchi Skillet

Step 1

In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, italian seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper with a small whisk or fork and set aside.

Step 2

Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped mushrooms and onions and cook until veggies begin to soften, about 2-3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for about another minute, until garlic is fragrant.

Step 3

Add butter to the skillet and cook until the butter is melted, stirring with a wooden spoon as needed. Add flour to the skillet and stir constantly with a wooden spoon to mix the flour into the butter. Continue to cook while stirring for about another minute to get rid of the raw flour taste.

Step 4

Reduce the heat to medium and slowly pour the half and half or milk into the skillet while constantly stirring so that no lumps form. Continue to cook while stirring until sauce starts to thicken, about 2-3 minutes. Add chicken broth while stirring constantly to combine all ingredients. Add the cajun spice blend and continue to cook while stirring until sauce is thickened and smooth, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 5

Add gnocchi and shrimp and stir everything to combine all ingredients. Continue to cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes. Add spinach and season with more salt and pepper to taste and red pepper flakes. Cook until spinach is wilted, about another minute or two. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in cheeses until melted. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and fresh chopped parsley and give everything one final stir.

Step 6

Garnish with more fresh chopped parsley and grated parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.