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

If you’re looking for a quick and comforting meal, then you’ve come to the right place! This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes) is one of my all-time favorites. It’s not just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to make, which is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.

What truly makes this dish special is how it combines tender gnocchi with fresh spinach and earthy mushrooms, all enveloped in a creamy garlic sauce. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: Just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy nights.
• One-pan wonder: Easy cleanup means more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing pots.
• Vegetarian delight: A hearty meatless option that’s packed with flavor and nutrition.
• Family-friendly: Kids love gnocchi, and the creamy sauce makes it irresistible for everyone.
• Versatile dish: Perfect as a main course or a side dish alongside your favorite protein.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! You likely have most of these in your kitchen already. Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi:

For the Gnocchi

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

For the Sauce

• 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)

For the Greens

• 5 oz fresh spinach
• ¼ teaspoon salt (to taste)
• coarsely ground black pepper (to taste)
• red pepper flakes (to taste)

Variations

This recipe is incredibly flexible! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add protein: Toss in some cooked chicken or chickpeas for an extra boost of protein.
• Switch up the greens: Kale or Swiss chard can be great substitutes if you prefer something different.
• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or toss in some diced jalapeños for a kick!
• Try different mushrooms: Shiitake or portobello mushrooms can bring unique flavors to the dish.

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

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating your olive oil in a large 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, about 5 minutes. This step helps enhance their natural umami flavor!

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Next, stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute until fragrant. This brings out the aroma and adds depth to your creamy sauce later on.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add your potato gnocchi directly into the pan—no need to cook them separately! They will absorb flavors while cooking in this delicious broth.

Step 4: Stir in Cream and Spinach

Once the gnocchi floats to the top (about 2-3 minutes), add in your heavy cream and fresh spinach. Stir until everything is well combined, letting it cook for an additional couple of minutes until heated through. The creaminess coats each bite perfectly!

Step 5: Season to Taste

Finally, add salt, coarsely ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes according to your preference. Taste as you go—it’s all about making it just right for you!

And there you have it—your very own Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi ready in just 20 minutes! Enjoy this comforting dish solo or served alongside your favorite protein for an unforgettable meal that will warm your heart.

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

Cooking should be fun and stress-free, so here are some handy tips to make your Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi even more delightful!

• Prep your ingredients first: Having everything chopped and measured before you start cooking not only saves time but also helps keep your kitchen organized. It allows you to focus on creating the dish without scrambling at the last minute.

• Choose fresh mushrooms: Using fresh crimini mushrooms will enhance the flavor of your dish significantly. They add a meaty texture that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

• Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, feel free to substitute half of the heavy cream with vegetable broth or a non-dairy milk alternative. This keeps the dish delicious while making it a bit healthier.

• Don’t skip the garlic: Garlic is a key ingredient that adds depth of flavor to your dish. Make sure to sauté it until fragrant but not burnt, as burnt garlic can introduce bitterness.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to play around with additional seasonings like nutmeg or fresh herbs. A little creativity can take your gnocchi from great to extraordinary!

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

When it comes to serving this creamy delight, presentation is key! Here are a few ideas to elevate your dish and impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or basil: Chopped fresh herbs add a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the gnocchi.
• Grated vegan cheese: Sprinkle some plant-based cheese on top for that extra creaminess and a hint of savory goodness.
• Lemon zest: A dash of lemon zest can bring out all the flavors in your dish while adding an unexpected zing.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, homemade or store-bought garlic bread adds an irresistible crunch.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy gnocchi.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like asparagus or bell peppers add color, flavor, and nutrients to round out your meal beautifully.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli not only pairs well with this dish but also adds vibrancy and health benefits without overwhelming flavors.

Enjoy these tips and serving suggestions as you whip up this satisfying meal—your taste buds will thank you!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi is not only a delightful dish to whip up in no time but also an excellent choice for meal prep! You can easily store leftovers or prepare components in advance to enjoy this dish throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the gnocchi to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool completely.
• Place it in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. Note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
• Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about preparing Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes).

Can I use other types of mushrooms?

Absolutely! While crimini mushrooms add a nice depth of flavor, you can substitute them with button mushrooms, shiitake, or even portobello for a different taste profile.

How can I make this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes) dairy-free?

You can easily make this recipe dairy-free by using coconut cream or any plant-based cream alternative. Just ensure the broth is also plant-based!

What do I serve with gnocchi?

Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi makes a wonderful stand-alone dish; however, you might pair it with a light salad or some roasted vegetables for added nutrition!

Can I add protein to this dish?

Certainly! You could toss in some cooked chicken, tofu, or chickpeas to make it more filling while keeping it meatless.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi as I do! It’s a heartwarming dish that brings comfort any night of the week. Whether you’re enjoying it on your own or sharing with friends and family, it’s sure to be a hit. Don’t hesitate to try out this simple yet delicious recipe – happy cooking!