Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes)

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal, look no further than this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes) recipe! It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The combination of tender gnocchi, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach all swimming in a creamy garlic sauce makes it irresistible. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a cozy night in with friends, this gnocchi fits right in. Plus, it only requires one pan, so cleanup is a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal that tastes like it took hours!
• One-Pan Wonder: Less mess means more time to enjoy your meal and relax with loved ones.
• Vegetable-Packed: With mushrooms and spinach, you get a healthy dose of veggies while savoring every bite.
• Comfort Food Bliss: Creamy and flavorful, this dish will satisfy your cravings for something hearty.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish—it’s sure to become a household favorite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this recipe, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Let’s gather everything together so we can get started on this delightful dish!

For the Gnocchi

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 oz mushrooms (crimini)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 16 oz potato gnocchi
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (or Herbs from Provence)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (or more)
• 5 oz fresh spinach
• ¼ teaspoon salt (to taste)
• Coarsely ground black pepper (to taste)
• Red pepper flakes (to taste)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible. You can easily customize it based on what you have or your flavor preferences!

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
• Change the Greens: If spinach isn’t your thing, try kale or arugula for a different twist.
• Boost the Protein: Add cooked chickpeas or white beans for an extra protein punch.

How to Make Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes)

Step 1: Sauté the Mushrooms

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced mushrooms along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté them until they’re golden brown, which usually takes about 5 minutes. This step enhances their flavor and gives your dish depth.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Next, stir in the minced garlic along with Italian seasoning and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute until fragrant. This infuses the oil with rich flavors that will coat the gnocchi beautifully.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

Now it’s time to add the potato gnocchi to the pan! Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until the gnocchi start floating to the surface—this means they’re done!

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream while stirring gently. Add fresh spinach, letting it wilt into the sauce. Since we want everything well combined, keep stirring until you achieve that creamy consistency. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once everything is mixed together nicely, remove from heat. Serve hot right from the pan! Feel free to sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top if you like a little kick.

And there you have it—a delightful bowl of Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi ready in just 20 minutes! Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes)

Cooking should be fun and stress-free, so here are some pro tips to ensure your gnocchi turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh mushrooms and spinach will enhance the flavors of the dish. They add a vibrant quality that dried or older ingredients simply can’t match.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking the mushrooms in batches if necessary allows them to caramelize beautifully. This step is key to developing rich, deep flavors in your sauce.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Since everyone’s palate is different, don’t hesitate to taste as you go! Adding a bit more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes can personalize the dish just for you.
• Reserve some pasta water: Before draining any excess liquid, save a small cup of pasta water. This starchy water can help thicken your sauce and make it creamier.
• Experiment with different greens: If you want to switch things up, consider adding kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach. Each green brings its own unique flavor and texture!

How to Serve Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes)

This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some ideas on how to present your creamy spinach and mushroom gnocchi for added flair.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil adds freshness and color to your plate.
• Grated cheese: A light dusting of dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
• Zest of lemon: A touch of lemon zest adds brightness and balances the creaminess of the sauce.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, garlic bread is a classic pairing that complements the rich flavors of the gnocchi.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers make for a colorful and nutritious accompaniment.
• Steamed Broccoli: This is an easy side that enhances both nutrition and presentation while providing a lovely crunch next to the soft gnocchi.

Enjoy your meal with these serving suggestions for an unforgettable dining experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi is not only delicious but also an excellent option for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and store it for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the gnocchi to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• When storing, consider separating the sauce from the gnocchi if you prefer them to retain their texture.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool fully before freezing.
• Place the gnocchi in an airtight freezer-safe container or freezer bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for the best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for even cooking.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain creaminess.
• Stir occasionally until heated through; avoid boiling to prevent curdling of the cream.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I make Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. Just follow the storage tips above, and you can enjoy it throughout the week.

What can I serve with Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi?

This dish is great on its own, but you can pair it with a fresh salad or your favorite protein like grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I know when my gnocchi is done cooking?

Gnocchi is done when they float to the surface of the water. If you’re sautéing them directly in the pan, look for a golden-brown color and tender texture.

Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to get creative with other veggies like kale, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just make sure they are cooked until tender before adding them to the gnocchi.

Is there a vegan option for this creamy dish?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delightful vegan version!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi! It’s such a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor into any meal. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or serving it at a gathering, I’m sure it’ll be a hit. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!