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, then you’ve come to the right place! Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes) has become one of my go-to recipes for those busy weeknights when time is limited but comfort food is a must. With just one pan, store-bought gnocchi, and fresh veggies, this dish comes together in no time. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner for two, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation.

What makes this recipe truly special is its creamy garlic sauce that envelops the gnocchi and vegetables, creating a satisfying and flavorful experience. Plus, it’s entirely meatless—making it great for anyone looking to reduce their meat intake without sacrificing taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, so you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love gnocchi! The creamy sauce combined with fresh spinach and mushrooms makes this dish appealing to all ages.
• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup! Everything cooks in one pan, making it easy to whip up after a long day.
• Customizable Flavor: The recipe allows for plenty of variations, so you can tweak it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
• Comforting Taste: Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi is rich and hearty—perfect for satisfying those comfort food cravings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create this delightful dish. Most of these items are likely already in your pantry or fridge!

For the Gnocchi

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

For the 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 Greens

• 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 make it your own! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add extra veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for more color and nutrients!
• Change the greens: If you’re not a fan of spinach, try kale or arugula for a different flavor profile.
• Make it lighter: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a lighter version that’s still creamy.
• Spice it up: Add cooked red lentils or chickpeas for added protein and texture!

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

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté them until they are golden brown and tender—about 5 minutes. This step is important because browning the mushrooms enhances their natural umami flavors.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

Once your mushrooms are ready, toss in the potato gnocchi directly into the pan. Stir everything together for about 2 minutes before adding the chicken broth. The broth will help deglaze any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pan while cooking the gnocchi perfectly.

Step 3: Make It Creamy

Now it’s time to add that luscious creamy element! Pour in the heavy cream along with minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and additional salt if desired. Stir well so that all the flavors meld together. Let this simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes until everything thickens slightly.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Season

Finally, stir in that beautiful fresh spinach until just wilted—this should only take about 1-2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with coarsely ground black pepper or red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. This step not only adds nutrition but also brightens up your meal visually!

And there you have it—a comforting bowl of Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every bite!

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

Making this delicious dish is a breeze, but a few pro tips can elevate it further!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and mushrooms not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant color and nutrients to your meal.

• Sauté mushrooms until golden: Taking the time to sauté the mushrooms until they are golden brown adds depth of flavor and a lovely texture to your dish.

• Adjust creaminess to your taste: If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute with a plant-based cream alternative. This ensures the dish remains rich without being overly heavy.

• Season gradually: Taste as you go! Adding salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes gradually helps you achieve the perfect balance of flavors tailored to your palate.

• Add protein if desired: For those who want a heartier meal, consider adding chickpeas or cooked lentils. These options are nutritious and complement the creamy sauce beautifully.

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

This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi is not only delightful in flavor but also visually appealing. Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting dish that will impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Grated vegan Parmesan: For that cheesy finish without any dairy, grated vegan Parmesan provides a flavorful touch that enhances every bite.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: This classic pairing is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. Toasted bread with garlic spread makes for a delightful complement.

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the gnocchi while adding freshness.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers bring an earthy flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with the creaminess of the gnocchi.

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds crunch and vibrant color to your plate while providing additional nutrients.

With these serving suggestions and tips, your Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi will surely be a hit! Enjoy every bite of this easy-to-make comfort food.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up in no time, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or to enjoy later in the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your leftovers:

Storing Leftovers

• Keep any leftover gnocchi in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Ensure that the sauce covers the gnocchi to maintain moisture.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze this dish, let it cool completely first.
• Transfer the gnocchi into a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just remember that the cream sauce may change texture upon thawing.

Reheating

• To reheat, place the gnocchi in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth.
• Stir occasionally until heated through. You may need to add more cream or broth to regain that creamy consistency.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring frequently.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi:

Can I make Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the entire dish and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat it gently.

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

You can use coconut cream or cashew cream as a dairy-free alternative. Both will provide a rich texture without compromising flavor.

Is this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi gluten-free?

If you choose gluten-free gnocchi, this dish can easily be made gluten-free. Just check the packaging!

Can I add other vegetables to my Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi?

Absolutely! Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

What are some side dishes that pair well with Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi?

This dish works beautifully as a main course on its own, but if you’re looking for sides, consider a simple green salad or garlic bread!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi recipe as I am! It’s not just quick and easy; it’s also packed with delightful flavors that bring comfort on any day of the week. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with friends, this dish is bound to become a favorite. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to experience how deliciously creamy this meal is—enjoy every bite!