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

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that warms your heart, then you’ve landed in the right spot! This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes) is not just another recipe; it’s a cherished dish that has become a staple in my kitchen. With its creamy garlic sauce and tender gnocchi, this meal comes together so effortlessly that it’s perfect for those busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish is ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for when you need a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen!
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax after dinner. Just one pan from start to finish!
• Vegetarian Delight: Packed with nutritious veggies, this recipe is both meatless and full of flavor, making it a great option for everyone.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the soft gnocchi, while adults appreciate the creamy sauce. It’s a hit at any table!
• Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand or swap out ingredients easily to suit your tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! You won’t need anything fancy—just good quality items that come together beautifully.

For the Gnocchi Dish

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 oz mushrooms (crimini)
• salt and pepper (to taste)
• 16 oz potato gnocchi
• ½ cup vegetable 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 recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it to your liking! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
• Change Up the Greens: If spinach isn’t your favorite, kale or Swiss chard work beautifully too!
• Make It Lighter: Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version while still keeping it creamy.
• Spice It Up: Add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños if you like a little heat!

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 skillet over medium heat. Add the crimini mushrooms along with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Sauté them until they are golden brown and tender—this step enhances their natural umami flavor. The aroma will fill your kitchen!

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic

Once your mushrooms are nicely browned, add in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but be careful not to burn it! This brings out a delicious depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with our creamy sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

Next, toss in the potato gnocchi right into your skillet! Pour in the vegetable broth and bring everything to a simmer. The gnocchi will cook quickly, usually just about 2-3 minutes until they float to the top—this means they’re ready!

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Now, reduce the heat slightly and stir in the heavy cream along with Italian seasoning and smoked paprika. Let this simmer gently for about 2-3 more minutes until it thickens slightly. You’ll notice how rich and creamy everything becomes—it’s pure comfort!

Step 5: Add Spinach & Season

Finally, stir in those vibrant fresh spinach leaves until wilted. Taste your dish and adjust with salt, coarsely ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes as desired. This final touch adds layers of flavor that tie everything together.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Scoop generous servings into bowls and dig in! This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi is best enjoyed warm with loved ones gathered around. Whether as a main dish or paired with protein of choice, it’s sure to impress! Happy cooking!

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

Creating a delicious dish in just 20 minutes is totally achievable with a few handy tips!

• Prep your ingredients first: Chop your mushrooms and mince the garlic before you start cooking. This saves time and keeps everything moving smoothly in the kitchen.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When sautéing, give the mushrooms enough space. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning, which enhances flavor.

• Use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully and adds a vibrant color to your dish. It’s also packed with nutrients that contribute to a healthy meal.

• Adjust the seasoning: Taste as you go! A little extra salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes can elevate the flavors to suit your palate perfectly.

• Make it a complete meal: Feel free to toss in other veggies like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for added nutrition and color. They’ll complement the creamy sauce wonderfully!

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

Presenting your Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi can turn a simple meal into something special! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Parmesan cheese: Grate some dairy-free Parmesan on top for a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the creaminess.
• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the dish for an aromatic touch that brightens up each bite.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce. It’s an easy-to-make classic that everyone loves.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette balances the richness of the gnocchi while adding freshness.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add texture and flavor while being easy to prepare alongside your gnocchi.
• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli not only complements this dish visually but also adds a satisfying crunch and nutritional boost.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi will be both a comforting favorite and an impressive meal for guests! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up in advance and enjoy the comforting flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the gnocchi to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you have a large batch, consider dividing it into smaller portions for easy meals.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion out the gnocchi into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and use within 2-3 months for best quality.
• When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• For reheating, place leftover gnocchi in a pan over medium heat.
• Add a splash of broth or cream to prevent drying out.
• Stir occasionally until heated through (about 5-7 minutes).
• Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, I’ve got you covered!

Can I make Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version.

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

This delightful dish takes just 20 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a quick weeknight meal!

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to include your favorite veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or kale. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This recipe stores well and can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent option for meal prepping.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making and devouring this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi as much as I do! It’s not just a quick dinner option; it’s also comforting and full of flavor. Whether you’re serving it up on a busy weeknight or enjoying leftovers throughout the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking!