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 on a plate, you’ve found it! Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes) is one of those recipes that has a special place in my heart. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Plus, who can resist the delightful combination of tender gnocchi and fresh veggies in a comforting sauce?

This dish is not only easy to whip up but also a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining friends, this recipe will surely impress without keeping you in the kitchen all night!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Whip this up in just 20 minutes! Ideal for those evenings when time is tight.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax after dinner. Just one pan does it all!
• Vegetable-Packed: Loaded with spinach and mushrooms, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love gnocchi! This dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a hearty main course or serve as a tasty side alongside your favorite protein.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for this delightful dish! You probably have most of these in your pantry already. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Gnocchi

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a plant-based version.
• Switch Up the Greens: Kale or Swiss chard can be great alternatives to spinach if you want to try something different.
• Spice it Up: For an extra kick, add diced jalapeños or sprinkle more red pepper flakes before serving.

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. Add the sliced mushrooms and season them with salt and pepper. Sauté until they’re golden brown and tender, about 5 minutes. This step brings out their rich flavor and helps create a beautiful base for our sauce.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Next, toss in the minced garlic along with the Italian seasoning and smoked paprika. Stir everything together for about 1 minute until fragrant. Garlic adds a wonderful aroma that makes your kitchen smell divine!

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. Cook according to package instructions until the gnocchi starts floating, usually just around 2-3 minutes. This ensures that every bite is perfectly cooked!

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Once your gnocchi is ready, lower the heat slightly and stir in the heavy cream along with fresh spinach. Let it simmer gently as you stir until the spinach wilts down into that luscious creamy sauce—about 2-3 minutes. The creaminess envelops everything beautifully!

Step 5: Season to Taste

Finally, taste your dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt, coarsely ground black pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired. This step allows you to personalize each bite just how you like it!

And there you have it—a delightful bowl of Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi ready to be enjoyed! Serve hot with some crusty bread on the side, and watch everyone come back for seconds!

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

Making this delightful dish is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to ensure everything turns out perfectly!

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh spinach and mushrooms elevate the flavor of the dish. The vibrant colors and textures will make your meal not only taste better but also look more appealing.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan – When sautéing the mushrooms, give them enough space to brown properly. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning, which affects both texture and flavor.

• Adjust seasoning to taste – Everyone’s palate is different! Start with the suggested amounts of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, but feel free to tweak them according to your preference for heat and flavor.

• Cook gnocchi until tender – Be sure to follow package instructions for cooking the gnocchi. Generally, they should float when done, indicating they are perfectly cooked and ready to absorb that creamy sauce!

• Add a splash of lemon juice – For an extra zing, consider adding a splash of fresh lemon juice just before serving. It brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing twist!

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

This dish is not only delicious but also visually stunning! Here are some creative ideas on how to present it beautifully at your dinner table.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley – A sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Grated dairy-free cheese – If you’re looking for an extra cheesy touch without animal-derived products, try using grated dairy-free cheese as a topping. It melts wonderfully over warm gnocchi!

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread – Toasted slices of garlic bread are perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce on your plate.
• Mixed green salad – A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette balances out the richness of the gnocchi while adding freshness.
• Roasted vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies such as zucchini or bell peppers offer a colorful side that pairs well with the flavors in this dish.
• Steamed asparagus or green beans – These crisp-tender veggies add crunch and vibrancy alongside your creamy gnocchi dish.

Enjoy crafting this warm bowl of comfort food that’s sure to be a hit at your next meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious and hearty dish any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for the family or just for yourself, these leftovers are sure to please!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the gnocchi to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date so you can keep track.

Freezing

• Cool the gnocchi completely before freezing.
• Place portions in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• To avoid freezer burn, consider wrapping individual portions in plastic wrap before placing them in bags.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• For stovetop reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to a pan and heat over medium until warmed through.
• Microwave in short bursts (1 minute at a time), stirring between intervals until heated evenly.

FAQs

Got questions? No worries! Here are some common queries about making this delightful dish.

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

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just follow the storage tips listed above to keep it fresh!

What can I serve with Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes)?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or roasted vegetables. You could also serve it alongside your favorite protein for a heartier meal.

Can I use different types of mushrooms?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other mushrooms like button or shiitake. Each type will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for this recipe?

Certainly! To make this dish dairy-free, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. Just make sure it has a similar consistency.

How do I know when my gnocchi is cooked?

Gnocchi is done when they float to the surface of the water or broth. In this recipe, they will become tender after simmering for just a few minutes.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi! It’s not just quick and easy; it’s also bursting with flavor and comfort. Whether it’s a busy weeknight meal or a cozy dinner on the weekend, this dish is sure to satisfy. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or any personal twists you add along the way!