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

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that feels like a warm hug, then you’ve found it! Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes) is my go-to recipe for those busy weeknights when time is short but I still want something comforting. It combines soft gnocchi with tender mushrooms and fresh spinach in a creamy garlic sauce that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a small gathering, this dish has a way of making everyone feel at home.

What makes this recipe even better is how effortlessly it comes together in just one pan! It’s perfect for family dinners, date nights, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. You can have a satisfying dinner on the table in no time, leaving you more moments to relax and enjoy your evening.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 20 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to savor your meal and enjoy with family or friends.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, mushrooms, and cream creates an unforgettable taste that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or serve alongside your favorite protein for a complete meal.
• Vegetarian Delight: This dish is a hearty meatless option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or satisfaction.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delightful dish! Each item plays its part in creating that rich and creamy goodness we all love.

For the Gnocchi

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 oz mushrooms (crimini)
• salt and pepper

For the Sauce

• 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)

For the Greens

• 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 tweak it to suit your tastes or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some ideas:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
• Make It Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat in your dishes.
• Swap the Cream: Use coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative.
• Add Protein: Throw in some cooked chickpeas or white beans for added protein without meat.

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 a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Sauté them until they are golden brown and tender. This step enhances their flavor, allowing them to caramelize beautifully.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Once the mushrooms are ready, stir in the minced garlic. Cook it for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn; we want that lovely garlic aroma without bitterness!

Step 3: Incorporate Gnocchi

Next, add the potato gnocchi directly into the pan. No need to boil them separately! Pour in the chicken broth and give everything a gentle stir. Let it simmer until the gnocchi floats to the top—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream along with Italian seasoning and smoked paprika. Stir well to combine all those wonderful flavors. Let it simmer gently so everything thickens up beautifully—about another 5 minutes should do it!

Step 5: Finish with Spinach

Finally, fold in the fresh spinach until it’s wilted and bright green. Taste your dish at this point and adjust with salt, pepper, or even more red pepper flakes if desired!

Now sit back and admire your masterpiece—a plateful of Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi that’s ready to be enjoyed!

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

Cooking can be a breeze with just a few handy tips! Here are some pro suggestions to ensure your Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi turns out absolutely delicious.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh mushrooms and spinach enhance the flavors of the dish significantly compared to their canned or frozen counterparts. Fresh vegetables retain more nutrients and provide a vibrant taste that elevates your meal.

• Sauté mushrooms until golden: Cooking the mushrooms until they are nicely browned adds depth to the flavor of your sauce. This caramelization brings out their natural sweetness, creating a richer overall dish.

• Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Gnocchi cooks quickly—just about 2-3 minutes in boiling water until they float. Overcooking can lead to mushy gnocchi, so keep an eye on them for that perfect texture!

• Adjust seasoning as needed: Tasting your dish before serving is crucial! Everyone’s palate is different, so don’t hesitate to adjust the salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes according to your personal preference for spice and flavor.

• Add a splash of lemon juice: For a refreshing twist, squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the final dish before serving. The acidity brightens up the creamy sauce and balances the flavors beautifully.

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

Getting creative with how you serve your gnocchi can make mealtime even more enjoyable! Here are some ideas to present this delightful dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley or basil: Sprinkling some freshly chopped herbs not only adds a pop of color but also infuses additional freshness into every bite.
• Grated vegan cheese: A sprinkle of vegan cheese provides a nice cheesy finish while keeping it dairy-free—perfect for enhancing creaminess without any animal-derived products.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing that’s hard to resist! Crispy garlic bread complements the creamy texture of the gnocchi and is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and nutrition. Their caramelized flavors pair wonderfully with the richness of the gnocchi.
• Simple Side Salad: A light salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy main dish. It’s easy and quick to prepare!
• Steamed Broccoli: Steaming broccoli adds not only vibrant color but also crunch and nutrients. It’s an ideal side that balances out the rich flavors of your gnocchi.

With these serving suggestions in mind, you’re all set to impress at your next meal! Enjoy every bite of this comforting and flavorful dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the gnocchi cool completely before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated gnocchi, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
• For frozen gnocchi, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, or add directly to a skillet with some broth over low heat until warmed through.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this recipe, you’re not alone!

Can I make Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes) vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. Ensure your gnocchi is egg-free as well.

What kind of mushrooms work best for Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes)?

Crimini mushrooms are fantastic for this recipe due to their rich flavor. However, you can also use button mushrooms or shiitake for a different twist!

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh spinach works beautifully in this recipe. Just add it towards the end of cooking so it wilts but retains its vibrant color and nutrients.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi recipe as delightful as I do! It’s quick, comforting, and packed with flavor – perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home. Enjoy experimenting with your own variations, and don’t hesitate to share your experience. Happy cooking!