Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes)
If you’re looking for a cozy meal that comes together in a flash, you’ll adore this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes). This dish is not just about convenience; it’s about celebrating simple ingredients that bring comfort to your table. I can’t tell you how many times this recipe has saved me on busy weeknights or made family gatherings feel extra special. The creamy garlic sauce, combined with the earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach, creates a delightful harmony that everyone loves.
What makes this dish even more appealing is that it’s incredibly versatile. Whether you need a quick dinner after a long day or a stunning centerpiece for a casual get-together, this gnocchi will impress! Plus, using store-bought gnocchi makes it so easy—no one will guess you whipped this up in just 20 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in just 20 minutes! Perfect for those hectic evenings.
- One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and relax.
- Vegetarian Delight: Packed with veggies, this dish is hearty enough to satisfy any appetite without meat.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy sauce and tender gnocchi.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adapt the recipe based on what you have in your pantry.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Let’s gather everything we need for this easy 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! Here are some fun twists to make it your own:
- Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for an extra protein boost.
- Mix Up the Veggies: Try adding sun-dried tomatoes or zucchini for additional flavors and textures.
- Make It Lighter: Substitute heavy cream with a plant-based cream or milk for a lighter version.
- Spice It Up: If you like heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add some diced jalapeños.
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 skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms along with salt and pepper. Sauté until they are golden brown and tender—about 5 minutes. This step enhances the mushroom flavor, making them rich and savory.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Once the mushrooms are ready, toss in the minced garlic. Stir it around for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Cooking the garlic briefly prevents it from burning while allowing its delicious aroma to fill your kitchen.
Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi
Next, add the potato gnocchi to the skillet along with the chicken broth. Bring it to a gentle simmer. Cook according to package instructions—usually around 3-5 minutes—until they float. This means they’re cooked through!
Step 4: Make It Creamy
Pour in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, fresh spinach, and additional salt and pepper as needed. Stir everything together gently until combined. The cream will create that irresistible sauce we all love while wilting down the spinach beautifully.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
After simmering for another couple of minutes until everything is heated through, remove from heat. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired for an extra kick! Serve hot right from the pan for an inviting presentation that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Now you’re all set to enjoy this comforting bowl of Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi! Bon appétit!
Pro Tips for Making Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes)
Creating a delightful one-pan meal is a breeze with just a few handy tips!
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and mushrooms not only enhance the flavor but also improve the overall texture and nutritional value of your dish. Fresh veggies make all the difference in this creamy delight!
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Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you’re making a larger batch, consider cooking in two pans or doing it in batches. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of sautéing, which may prevent those lovely golden bits from forming.
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Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone has different preferences when it comes to flavor. Start with less salt and pepper, then add more as needed to suit your palate. This ensures that your dish is perfectly seasoned just for you!
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Experiment with cheese alternatives: If you’re looking for extra creaminess without dairy, try adding a scoop of nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative at the end. This gives a nice cheesy flavor while keeping it plant-based.
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Save some pasta water: Before draining any excess liquid, reserve a splash of pasta water. It can be added back into the sauce to adjust consistency and enhance flavor as needed.
How to Serve Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes)
Serving up this dish is as enjoyable as making it! With its vibrant colors and creamy texture, you can create an appealing presentation that’s sure to impress.
Garnishes
- Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil adds freshness and color, enhancing both presentation and taste.
- Lemon zest: A dash of lemon zest right before serving brightens up the flavors, giving a refreshing contrast to the creaminess.
- Toasted pine nuts: For an added crunch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts on top; they offer a lovely nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
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Garlic Bread: This classic pairing is perfect for soaking up any extra cream sauce. The buttery garlic goodness complements the creamy gnocchi perfectly.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast to the richness of the gnocchi. Add cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for extra freshness!
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Roasted Asparagus: The slight char from roasting asparagus brings out its natural sweetness. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice for an elegant side that balances well with creamy dishes.
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Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds a vibrant green color to your plate while providing added fiber and vitamins—a great way to round out your meal!
Enjoy your delicious Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi! It’s quick, satisfying, and sure to become a favorite in your weeknight dinner rotation.
Make Ahead and Storage
This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi is not only a quick and delightful dish but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance and enjoy the convenience of having a delicious meal ready to go.
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Enjoy it within 3-4 days for the best flavor and quality.
- Reheating gently will help maintain its creamy texture.
Freezing
- Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
- Transfer portions into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for reference!
Reheating
- Thaw frozen gnocchi overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Heat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if necessary.
- Stir until heated through, ensuring it remains creamy.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi.
Can I make Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi ahead of time?
Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can store leftovers in the fridge or freeze them for later enjoyment.
What should I serve with Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi?
This dish stands well on its own, but you can pair it with a light salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to customize your dish.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi is entirely meat-free and perfect for vegetarians looking for a comforting meal.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi. It’s such a special dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to delight. Enjoy every creamy bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences with me!
Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes)
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Indulge in the warmth and comfort of Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi, a delightful one-pan meal that comes together in just 20 minutes. This recipe features tender potato gnocchi enveloped in a luscious creamy garlic sauce, complemented by earthy mushrooms and vibrant fresh spinach. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also impressively versatile. Whether enjoyed as a standalone meal or paired with your favorite sides, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz crimini mushrooms, sliced
- 16 oz potato gnocchi
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 oz fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté sliced mushrooms with salt and pepper until golden brown (about 5 minutes).
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in potato gnocchi and chicken broth; simmer for 3-5 minutes until gnocchi float.
- Pour in heavy cream, add spinach, and season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined and heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with red pepper flakes if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
