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, you’re in the right place! Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes) has become my go-to recipe for those busy weeknights when I want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s one of those dishes that brings everything together—comforting gnocchi, fresh spinach, and earthy mushrooms all enveloped in a creamy garlic sauce.

What’s truly special about this recipe is its versatility. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a last-minute gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it requires minimal cleanup since it’s all made in one pan! Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delightful meal without breaking a sweat.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less time cleaning means more time enjoying your delicious creation.
• Family-Friendly: The creamy sauce and tender gnocchi make it appealing for both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or proteins to adapt this dish to your taste.
• Comfort Food Excellence: There’s something about creamy gnocchi that just warms the soul!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that create a rich and flavorful dish. You probably have most of them in your pantry already! Here’s what you need:

For the Gnocchi

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

For the Creamy Sauce

• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or Herbs from Provence)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or more)
• 5 oz fresh spinach
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (to taste)
• coarsely ground black pepper (to taste)
• red pepper flakes (to taste)

Variations

This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add extra veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or zucchini for added color and nutrition.
• Boost the protein: Include chickpeas or white beans for a hearty touch without meat.
• Make it lighter: Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or toss in some sautéed 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 pan over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms along with salt and pepper. Sauté until they are golden brown, which usually takes about 5 minutes. This step is essential because it enhances their flavor and gives them a lovely texture.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

Once the mushrooms are ready, stir in the potato gnocchi into the pan. Pour in the chicken broth and let everything come to a gentle simmer. Cook until the gnocchi float to the surface—this usually takes around 2-3 minutes. This process ensures that each piece of gnocchi absorbs all those wonderful flavors.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Now it’s time to make things creamy! Stir in the heavy cream along with minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Let everything simmer together for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. This is where all those wonderful aromas come together!

Step 4: Add Fresh Spinach

Finally, fold in fresh spinach until it wilts down into that luscious creamy mixture. Season with additional salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes according to your taste. This step not only adds flavor but also makes your dish vibrant and nutritious.

And there you have it—your very own bowl of Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi ready in just 20 minutes! Enjoy every bite!

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

Creating a delicious dish in no time can be a breeze with a few handy tips! Here are some suggestions to elevate your cooking experience:

• Prep Your Ingredients First: Having everything ready before you start cooking helps streamline the process and ensures that nothing is overcooked while you scramble to chop or measure.

• Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully and adds a vibrant color and flavor to the dish compared to frozen. Plus, it provides a lovely texture!

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If your pan is too crowded, the ingredients will steam instead of sautéing. This can affect the overall flavor, so consider cooking in batches if necessary.

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as needed for that perfect balance.

• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to throw in additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and variety. They’ll cook quickly alongside the mushrooms and spinach!

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

Serving this creamy delight can be just as fun as making it! Here are several ideas to present your dish beautifully and deliciously.

Garnishes

• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of dairy-free parmesan can enhance the creaminess without overpowering the flavors.
• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or basil adds a fresh pop of color and flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette refreshes your palate after each bite of gnocchi.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots or broccoli add an earthy element to your meal while providing delightful textures.
• Steamed Asparagus: Quick to prepare, steamed asparagus adds a touch of elegance with its bright green color and satisfying crunch.

Enjoy crafting this comforting meal that’s not only quick but also packed with flavor!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week with minimal effort. You can easily store leftovers or even make a larger batch to keep on hand for a quick dinner.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the gnocchi to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze this dish, let it cool down first, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Make sure to squeeze out any excess air from bags before sealing.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months; just remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen gnocchi overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up while making Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes).

Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Fresh gnocchi can be used in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as fresh gnocchi cooks faster than dried.

How can I make this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes) dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with a plant-based cream alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. Adjust seasoning as needed for flavor!

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

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

What can I serve with Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi?

This dish is delicious on its own but pairs well with a light salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi! It’s not just a quick meal; it’s comfort food that warms your heart. Whether you’re enjoying it as a cozy dinner or prepping ahead for busy weeknights, I’m sure it will become a favorite in your kitchen. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!