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

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug, you’ve found it! Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes) is one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights when time is tight but I still want something delicious to serve. The best part? This dish comes together in just 20 minutes using only one pan, which means less cleanup for you and more time to enjoy every bite.

This gnocchi dish is not just about speed; it’s loaded with fresh flavors and comforting creaminess. Whether you’re cooking for the family or whipping up a cozy solo dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. It’s perfect as a standalone meal or served alongside your favorite protein for a complete feast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 20 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for those hectic evenings.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less mess means more time enjoying your meal and less time cleaning up!
• Deliciously Creamy: The rich garlic sauce makes each bite comforting and indulgent.
• Veggie-Packed: With fresh spinach and mushrooms, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens without sacrificing flavor.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You’ll find that they’re easy to come by and likely already in your kitchen. Here’s what you need:

For the Gnocchi

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

For the Creamy Sauce

• 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 Greens

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

Variations

What I love about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
• Make It Spicy: If you love heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.
• Swap the Protein: Consider adding cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken if you’d like to boost the protein content.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a lighter version that’s still creamy!

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 sliced mushrooms along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté them until they are golden brown and tender—this enhances their natural flavor and adds depth to your dish.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

Next, add the potato gnocchi directly into the pan with the sautéed mushrooms. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cooking them this way allows the gnocchi to soak up all that wonderful mushroom flavor while they soften.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Once the gnocchi are cooked through, stir in the heavy cream, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Let this simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes until everything is well combined. The sauce will thicken slightly, creating that luscious creaminess we all crave!

Step 4: Add Spinach and Seasoning

Finally, fold in the fresh spinach until wilted, then season with additional salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes according to your taste. This step not only adds color but also boosts nutrients—perfectly balancing out all those creamy flavors.

And there you have it! A delightful bowl of Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi ready in just 20 minutes. Enjoy your meal!

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

Cooking can be a breeze with the right tips and tricks, and this creamy gnocchi dish is no exception! Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your meal is a delicious success.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh mushrooms and spinach will elevate the flavor and texture of your dish, making it taste homemade and vibrant.
• Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Keep an eye on the gnocchi while cooking; they only need a few minutes to float to the surface in boiling water. Overcooking can make them mushy.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone has different preferences, so feel free to tweak the salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to suit your palate. A little extra seasoning can make all the difference!
• Add more veggies: For added nutrition and color, consider tossing in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. They’ll blend seamlessly into your creamy sauce.
• Experiment with dairy alternatives: If you’re looking for lighter options, try substituting heavy cream with coconut milk or a cashew-based cream for a different flavor profile.

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

Presenting your creamy spinach and mushroom gnocchi beautifully can turn a simple meal into something special. Here are some delightful serving ideas that will impress family and friends alike!

Garnishes

• Grated Parmesan cheese: While traditional parmesan is made from animal products, you can substitute it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and freshness that brightens the dish.
• Toasted pine nuts: A handful of toasted pine nuts adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that complements the creaminess perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette provides refreshing contrast to the rich gnocchi.
• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser! It’s perfect for soaking up that luscious creamy sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers add an earthy note that pairs beautifully with this dish.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli is not only nutritious but also adds vibrant color and texture to your plate.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create an unforgettable dining experience with your creamy spinach and mushroom gnocchi. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi is a fantastic recipe for meal prep. It’s quick to make, and leftovers store beautifully, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lunchboxes!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the gnocchi to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep reheating suggestions in mind when storing to ensure best texture.

Freezing

• Let the dish chill completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating

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

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I make Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes) vegan?

Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with plant-based creams like coconut or cashew cream. Just ensure your vegetable broth is vegan as well.

What can I serve with Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes)?

This dish is wonderful on its own but pairs nicely with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. Grilled chicken or tofu can be great protein additions too!

Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, or kale based on your preference or what you have on hand.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

From start to finish, you can enjoy this creamy gnocchi in just 20 minutes!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi! It’s not just a quick meal; it’s a delightful comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, I trust this dish will become a favorite. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!