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

If you’re looking for a dinner that feels warm and comforting but doesn’t take hours to prepare, you’ve come to the right place! This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes) is not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug on a plate. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight or impressing friends at a casual gathering, this dish brings smiles all around. The combination of fluffy gnocchi, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach in a luscious garlic sauce makes it an instant favorite in my home.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make. With just one pan and simple ingredients, you can have dinner ready in no time! Plus, it’s meatless, making it perfect for any occasion or dietary preference.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip this up in just 20 minutes—perfect for those busy evenings.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your delicious meal with loved ones!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love gnocchi! This dish packs in veggies without them even noticing.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have at home.
• Comforting Flavor: The creamy garlic sauce combined with the earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach creates an irresistible taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful dish. Most of these items are staples you might already have at home!

For the Gnocchi

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 oz mushrooms (crimini)
• Salt and pepper
• 16 oz potato gnocchi
• 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)
• 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 flexible! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
• Swap the Sauce: If you’re feeling adventurous, try a pesto sauce instead of creamy sauce for a different twist.
• Change Up the Greens: Kale or Swiss chard can be great alternatives to spinach if that’s what you prefer.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a plant-based version.

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

Step 1: Sauté the Mushrooms

Start by heating the olive oil over medium heat in your pan. Add the sliced mushrooms along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté them until golden brown and tender—about 5 minutes. This step enhances their flavor and gives them a wonderful texture.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Next, stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute until fragrant. This will infuse your dish with incredible aromas that set the stage for the creamy sauce!

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

Now it’s time to add the potato gnocchi to the pan along with chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. The gnocchi will cook quickly—just about 2-3 minutes until they float to the top.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for another few minutes until everything is well combined and creamy. This sauce is what makes this dish truly indulgent!

Step 5: Stir in Spinach

Finally, add fresh spinach into the mix. Stir gently until wilted—this should take about two minutes. Not only does this add nutrition, but it also brings vibrant color to your dish.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Taste your creation and adjust seasonings with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as desired. Serve hot and enjoy this delightful Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi!

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

Creating a delicious dish in just 20 minutes is easier than you think! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your gnocchi turns out creamy and flavorful.

• Prep your ingredients first: Having everything chopped and measured before you start cooking will save you time and make the cooking process smoother.

• Use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach wilts down beautifully and adds a vibrant color to the dish. It also brings extra nutrients and flavor compared to frozen spinach.

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

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Every palate is different! Taste your sauce as it cooks and adjust the salt, pepper, and spices according to your preference.

• Save some pasta water: If your sauce gets too thick, adding a splash of reserved pasta water can help loosen it up while adding extra starch for creaminess.

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

This creamy dish is not only quick to prepare but also visually appealing. You can enhance its presentation with a few simple touches that will impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Grated vegan parmesan: A sprinkle of this cheese alternative adds a nutty flavor and a touch of elegance.
• Chopped fresh parsley: This bright green herb provides a fresh contrast and an added layer of flavor.
• Lemon zest: A light dusting of lemon zest can brighten the dish and add a refreshing note.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread complements the creamy gnocchi perfectly, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite.
• Roasted vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots can add color and nutrition while balancing out the richness of the gnocchi.
• Simple green salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens dressed in a light vinaigrette creates a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy dish.
• Steamed asparagus: The tender-crisp texture of asparagus pairs wonderfully with gnocchi while adding a pop of color and health benefits.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re well on your way to enjoying a delightful meal that’s sure to be loved by all!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi recipe is perfect for meal prep! Not only is it quick to whip up, but it also stores well, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the gnocchi to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool completely.
• Portion out into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain creaminess.
• Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious dish!

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

Yes! You can prepare the gnocchi and store it in the fridge or freeze it. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!

What can I serve with Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi?

This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or your choice of protein for a complete meal. It’s also delightful on its own!

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or any seasonal veggies you prefer. Just adjust cooking times as necessary.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Yes! You can use coconut cream or a blend of cashew cream as dairy-free alternatives while still achieving a creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi—it truly is a comforting dish that’s quick enough for any night of the week! The combination of creamy sauce and hearty mushrooms makes it special. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations; I’d love to hear how you put your twist on this recipe. Happy cooking!