Description
Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi
Craving some cozy comfort food? This creamy spinach and mushroom gnocchi is a one-pan wonder that delivers on both flavor and convenience. Made in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a hearty, meatless meal. With store-bought gnocchi cooked directly in a luscious garlic cream sauce, this dish is satisfying, simple, and full of flavor. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or can be enjoyed as is for a comforting, restaurant-quality dinner.
1 tbsp olive oil
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
16 oz potato gnocchi
½ cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp smoked paprika
5 oz fresh spinach
Salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste
Directions:
1. Cook mushrooms in olive oil, remove half.
2. Add gnocchi, broth, cream, garlic, and seasoning. Boil for 5 mins.
3. Add spinach, cook until wilted.
4. Top with remaining mushrooms.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Kcal: 445 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. Start by heating the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add all the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until they have released their moisture and are golden brown. Season with a pinch of salt. Remove about half of the mushrooms and set them aside for garnish. To the same pan, add the package of gnocchi, chicken broth, heavy cream, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly and the gnocchi is tender. Add the fresh spinach in batches, stirring until each addition is wilted. This should take about 2-3 minutes total. Taste and season generously with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes as desired. Serve immediately, topped with the reserved sautéed mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and creamy dish pairs wonderfully with fresh, acidic, or crunchy elements to balance the meal. Serve it alongside a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette. For added protein, top with grilled chicken breast, seared shrimp, or crispy chickpeas. A side of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every bit of the delicious sauce. To elevate the presentation, finish each plate with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil, and an extra drizzle of high-quality olive oil.
How-to Summary
Sauté mushrooms and set half aside. In the same pan, combine gnocchi, broth, cream, garlic, and seasonings. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the gnocchi is tender and the sauce thickens. Stir in fresh spinach until wilted. Season to taste and garnish with the reserved mushrooms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of gnocchi? Yes, you can use shelf-stable, refrigerated, or even cauliflower gnocchi. Cooking times may vary slightly, so follow package directions and adjust simmering time as needed.
How can I make this dish vegetarian? Simply substitute the chicken broth with an equal amount of vegetable broth. Ensure all other ingredients, like the gnocchi, are vegetarian-friendly.
What can I use instead of heavy cream? For a lighter version, half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk can work, but the sauce will be less thick. To thicken a lighter sauce, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it in at the end.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Can I add protein to this recipe? Absolutely. Diced cooked chicken, Italian sausage, or white beans can be added with the gnocchi. For shrimp or scallops, sauté them separately and add them at the end to prevent overcooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the pan when sautéing the mushrooms; cook them in batches if necessary to get a proper sear instead of steaming. Do not skip simmering the gnocchi in the sauce—this is crucial for both cooking the gnocchi and allowing the sauce to reduce and thicken properly. Be cautious with salt early on, as the broth and any added cheese are salty; always season at the end. Finally, do not overcook the spinach. Add it last and stir just until wilted to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients.
Conclusion
This creamy spinach and mushroom gnocchi is the ultimate proof that a decadent, satisfying dinner doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. In just 20 minutes, you can create a comforting, restaurant-worthy meal that feels special yet is incredibly simple to prepare. Its versatility allows for easy customization based on dietary needs or what you have on hand. Perfect for a quick weeknight solution or a cozy weekend meal, this one-pan wonder is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.