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

If you’re looking for a quick and delightful meal that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes) is a dish that has stolen my heart. It’s not just about the flavors; it’s about the memories I’ve made while enjoying it with family and friends. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something delicious on the table fast or for a cozy gathering where everyone will feel right at home.

What makes this dish special is how easy it is to whip up. With minimal cleanup thanks to just one pan, you can focus on enjoying your meal rather than stressing in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this creamy gnocchi is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for any night of the week.
• One-pan wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax after dinner.
• Vegetable-packed: With mushrooms and spinach, it’s not only comforting but nutritious too!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this creamy goodness.
• Versatile dish: Great as a main course or paired with your favorite protein.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi comes together with simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your kitchen. 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 vegetable 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! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add some protein: Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for an extra boost.
• Change up the greens: Try kale or Swiss chard in place of spinach for a different flavor.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative.
• Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños if you love heat!

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

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil in your pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced crimini mushrooms along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté them until they are golden brown and tender, which should take about 5 minutes. This step enhances their flavor and gives a nice foundation for our sauce.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Next, stir in the minced garlic along with Italian seasoning and smoked paprika. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. This step is crucial because garlic adds depth to the dish while the spices bring everything together beautifully.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

Pour in your vegetable broth followed by the potato gnocchi. Bring everything to a gentle boil then reduce heat to simmer. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender and start floating on top. This ensures that we achieve that perfect texture!

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Once the gnocchi are cooked, pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently to combine all ingredients and let it simmer for another couple of minutes until everything is heated through. The creaminess complements the savory mushrooms perfectly!

Step 5: Add Spinach & Final Touches

Finally, fold in your fresh spinach until wilted, adding salt, coarsely ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. This step not only adds color but also boosts nutrition! Serve hot and enjoy every comforting bite of this delightful meal.

And there you have it—a deliciously creamy dish that’s bound to become a favorite at your table!

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

Making a delicious creamy spinach and mushroom gnocchi is straightforward, but these pro tips will elevate your dish to restaurant-quality!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and mushrooms not only enhance the flavor but also provide a vibrant color to your dish, making it visually appealing.

• Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Keep an eye on the cooking time for the gnocchi. They should be cooked until they float to the top of the water. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture.

• Customize your spices: Feel free to adjust the smoked paprika and Italian seasoning based on your taste preferences. A little extra spice can really bring out the flavors!

• Prep ahead: If you’re short on time during dinner prep, you can chop your garlic and mushrooms in advance or even cook the spinach ahead of time. This makes putting everything together quick and easy!

• Make it creamy: For an even creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of plant-based cream or nutritional yeast for added richness and flavor.

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

This dish is not only delicious but also beautifully presented when served right! Here are some ideas to make your gnocchi shine at the dinner table.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil on top just before serving for an added layer of freshness.
• Grated vegan cheese: A sprinkle of dairy-free Parmesan or a similar cheese alternative adds a lovely savory touch that complements the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious creamy sauce—it’s a classic pairing that everyone loves!

• Roasted vegetables: Try serving this meal with seasonal roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots. Their sweetness contrasts nicely with the dish’s creaminess.

• Simple salad: A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast that balances out the rich flavors of the gnocchi.

• Steamed asparagus: Tender steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice makes for an elegant side that adds a pop of color and complements the earthy flavors in the dish beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi will be an absolute hit at any gathering or family dinner! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi is not only quick to make, but it’s also fantastic for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance, making your weeknight dinners effortless and delicious.

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 down before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• To prevent clumping, you can freeze the gnocchi in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to containers.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it on low power in short intervals, stirring between each interval.

FAQs

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

Can I use gluten-free gnocchi for Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes)?

Absolutely! Gluten-free gnocchi works perfectly in this recipe. Just follow the same cooking instructions.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi?

You can use coconut cream or cashew cream as dairy-free alternatives. They will still provide a rich and creamy texture!

How do I make Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi vegan?

To make this dish vegan, simply replace heavy cream with a plant-based cream or blended silken tofu. Ensure that your gnocchi is also egg-free.

Can I add protein to Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi?

Yes! This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp if you’re looking for additional protein options.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to make this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi for your next meal! It’s such a delightful recipe that combines comfort with ease. Remember, whether you enjoy it as a main course or as a side dish, it’s sure to impress. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to share your experience!