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

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’re in for a treat! Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes) is one of my go-to recipes when the week gets hectic. It’s easy to whip up, and the best part? Everything cooks in just one pan! This dish combines soft, pillowy gnocchi with earthy mushrooms and vibrant spinach, all enveloped in a creamy garlic sauce. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this recipe shines in its simplicity and comfort.

What makes this recipe so special is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a hearty main dish or serve it as a delightful side alongside your favorite proteins. Plus, it’s meatless but still packed with flavor—perfect for anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: In just 20 minutes, you’ll have dinner ready! Perfect for those busy evenings when time is tight.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax after dinner. Who doesn’t love that?
• Family-Friendly: The creamy texture and savory flavors make it appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple ingredients you can feel good about serving.
• Endless Customization: Easily tweak the recipe to fit your personal taste or what you have on hand!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking should be fun and uncomplicated! For this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi, we’re keeping it simple with wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Base

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

For the Gnocchi

• 16 oz potato gnocchi
• ½ cup chicken 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 Spinach

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
• Swap the Cream: Use coconut cream for a dairy-free option or cashew cream for a rich alternative.
• Include Protein: Stir in some cooked chickpeas or white beans for added protein.
• Change the Sauce: Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano to give it your own twist!

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

Step 1: Sauté the Mushrooms

Heat your 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’re golden brown—this step brings out their rich umami flavor and gives depth to your sauce.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Next, stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This step is essential because it infuses the oil with flavor that will coat every bite of gnocchi.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

Now it’s time to add the potato gnocchi directly into the pan along with the chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, allowing the gnocchi to cook through—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Stir gently so they don’t stick together.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Let everything bubble together for another few minutes until it thickens slightly. This creamy sauce hugs each piece of gnocchi beautifully!

Step 5: Finish with Spinach

Finally, fold in the fresh spinach until wilted. Season with additional salt, coarsely ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes according to your taste. This final touch adds color and freshness to your dish.

And there you have it! A comforting bowl of Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi that’s ready to enjoy in just 20 minutes—all made in one pan!

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

Cooking is all about enjoying the process, and these pro tips will help you create a stunning dish that’s packed with flavor in no time!

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh spinach and mushrooms elevate the taste and texture of your dish, providing a vibrant, earthy flavor that dried or canned ingredients simply can’t match.

• Sauté mushrooms until golden – Taking the time to brown your mushrooms enhances their natural umami flavor. This step adds depth to the creamy sauce and makes every bite more satisfying.

• Don’t overcook the gnocchi – Since store-bought gnocchi cooks quickly, keep an eye on them to ensure they remain tender; overcooking can lead to a mushy texture. Aim for that perfect pillow-like consistency!

• Adjust seasoning to taste – Everyone’s palate is different! Taste your sauce before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as needed to make it truly yours.

• Add a splash of lemon juice – For a touch of brightness, consider adding a splash of lemon juice just before serving. It enhances the flavors and gives a fresh finish to this rich dish.

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

Presenting your Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi beautifully can elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary! Here are some ideas to make your dish shine at the dinner table.

Garnishes

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese – A sprinkle of this cheese adds a savory touch that complements the creaminess perfectly.
• Chopped parsley or basil – These herbs bring freshness and color to your plate while enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread – A warm slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce. Plus, who doesn’t love buttery goodness?
• Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the rich gnocchi.
• Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add extra nutrients and flavors that pair wonderfully with the creamy dish.
• Steamed Asparagus or Broccoli – These green sides not only add color but also bring crunch and health benefits, making your meal even more wholesome.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re ready to impress friends and family with this delightful one-pan meal! Enjoy every creamy bite of your gnocchi creation.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi recipe is perfect for meal prep, as it keeps well in the fridge and can be easily reheated throughout the week. Here’s how to properly store your delicious leftovers!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the gnocchi to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If possible, keep the sauce separate to maintain the best texture.

Freezing

• Place cooled gnocchi in a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.
• Consider freezing the sauce separately if you want to keep textures intact when reheating.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back creaminess.
• Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I make Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can replace heavy cream with coconut milk or any plant-based cream alternative. Just ensure you adjust seasoning accordingly.

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

This delightful dish takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy option for weeknight dinners.

What can I serve with Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi?

You can enjoy this dish on its own or pair it with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I use frozen gnocchi instead of fresh?

Yes! Frozen gnocchi works just as well. Just cook them according to package instructions before adding them to the creamy sauce.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi! It’s a truly comforting dish that’s not only quick but packed with flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course or pairing it with your favorite protein, it’s sure to delight your taste buds. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try this recipe!