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, then you’ve come to the right place! Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes) is one of those recipes that has found its way into my heart. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress friends with minimal effort. The best part? You can whip it up in just 20 minutes, all in one pan!

This dish combines soft, pillowy gnocchi with earthy mushrooms and vibrant spinach, all enveloped in a luscious creamy garlic sauce. It’s a meatless marvel that doesn’t skimp on flavor, making it suitable for any occasion—from family dinners to cozy nights in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for those hectic evenings.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less clean-up means more time enjoying your meal with loved ones!
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will adore the creamy sauce and comforting gnocchi.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out or add veggies based on what you have at home.
• Deliciously Filling: This dish is hearty enough to satisfy without feeling heavy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients shouldn’t be a chore! For this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi recipe, you’ll find that these simple, wholesome ingredients come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Gnocchi

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

For the Finishing Touches

• 5 oz fresh spinach
• 1/4 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 how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Some Protein: Toss in cooked chicken or chickpeas for an extra boost of protein.
• Change Up the Veggies: Swap spinach for kale or throw in some bell peppers for added color.
• Make It Vegan: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Boost the Flavor: Add a splash of lemon juice or zest after cooking for a bright finish.

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

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced mushrooms along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté them until they are golden brown and tender—this step brings out their rich umami flavor!

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

Next, add the potato gnocchi directly into the skillet with the sautéed mushrooms. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it all to a gentle simmer. The gnocchi will cook quickly—follow package instructions. You’ll know it’s done when they float to the top!

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Once your gnocchi is ready, reduce heat slightly and stir in the heavy cream along with minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Stir well until everything is combined; this is where our creamy garlic dreams start to come together!

Step 4: Add Spinach & Season

Now it’s time to fold in that beautiful fresh spinach! Stir it gently into the creamy mixture until wilted. Don’t forget to season with additional salt, coarsely ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like it spicy.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Remove from heat and serve immediately while it’s all warm and comforting. This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi makes an excellent main dish but pairs wonderfully as a side too. Enjoy every creamy bite!

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

Cooking can be a breeze with a few handy tips up your sleeve! Here are some pro tips to ensure your Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi turns out perfectly every time.

• Prep your ingredients first: Having all your veggies chopped and sauces ready to go will save you time and stress when cooking. This way, you can focus on enjoying the process!

• Use fresh ingredients: Opting for fresh spinach and high-quality mushrooms can elevate the flavor of your dish significantly. Fresh ingredients provide a vibrant taste that truly shines in this creamy sauce.

• Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Since store-bought gnocchi cooks quickly, keep an eye on them while they boil. Overcooking can make them mushy, so aim for that perfect al dente texture!

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so don’t hesitate to tweak the salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes based on your preferences. A pinch more can make a world of difference!

• Save some pasta water: If you find your sauce too thick, adding a splash of reserved pasta water can help achieve that creamy consistency without losing flavor. It’s like magic!

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

Presenting your dish beautifully enhances the dining experience! Here are some delightful ways to serve this creamy gnocchi.

Garnishes

• Grated Parmesan or Vegan Cheese: Sprinkle some cheese on top for an added layer of flavor and creaminess.
• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or basil not only add color but also bring a fresh aroma that complements the dish beautifully.
• Lemon Zest: A hint of lemon zest gives a refreshing brightness that balances the richness of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into any leftover sauce, garlic bread adds a crunchy texture that pairs wonderfully with the creamy gnocchi.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gnocchi.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus roasted until tender make an excellent side that adds more nutrients and color to your meal.
• Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: These vibrant greens not only add nutritional value but also enhance the plate’s visual appeal with their bright colors.

With these serving suggestions and tips in mind, you’re all set to create a delightful dining experience with your Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious, comforting meals throughout the week. You can prepare it in advance and store the leftovers, or even make extra batches to freeze for later!

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 ready to eat, check for any signs of spoilage before reheating.

Freezing

• Place cooled gnocchi in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring as much air as possible is removed.
• Label the container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, you can reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
• For frozen gnocchi, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, or you can reheat directly from frozen by adding a few minutes to your stovetop cooking time.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi.

Can I use other types of pasta instead of gnocchi?

Absolutely! While this recipe features gnocchi for its unique texture, you can substitute it with other pasta varieties like penne or fusilli if that’s what you have on hand.

How do I make Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, simply replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. The flavors will still be delightful!

What can I serve with Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or grilled vegetables. You could also serve it alongside your favorite protein like grilled chicken or tofu for a more balanced meal.

How long does it take to prepare Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi?

You can whip up this delicious meal in just 20 minutes! It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave comfort food but have limited time.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi! It’s such a cozy meal that’s quick to make yet bursting with flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing it with loved ones, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking!