Name: Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 8 oz crimini mushrooms; Salt and pepper; 16 oz potato gnocchi; ½ cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 cloves garlic, minced; ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; 5 oz fresh spinach; ¼ teaspoon salt, to taste; Coarsely ground black pepper, to taste; Red pepper flakes, to taste

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The aroma of Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi wafts through your kitchen, enveloping you in warmth and comfort. The rich blend of garlic-infused cream combined with earthy mushrooms, and the gentle pop of pillowy gnocchi transports you to a cozy bistro on a chilly evening. Imagine twirling a fork into that luscious, velvety sauce, caressing each piece of gnocchi, and getting lost in the vibrant greens of freshly wilted spinach. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a rainy day.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi

Growing up, my grandmother had a way of turning the simplest ingredients into extraordinary meals. One dish that always brought us together was gnocchi, browned butter glossing every nook and cranny. Now, with this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi recipe, I channel that same comforting nostalgia in just 20 minutes, all in one pan! Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
Irresistible Flavor: Creamy, garlic-infused sauce paired with umami-rich mushrooms, it’s a flavorful delight!
Eye-Catching Appeal: The colors of vibrant spinach and golden gnocchi make the plate pop.
Flexible Serving: Ideal as a main dish or a side to your favorite protein—perfect for any occasion.
Diet-Friendly Options: Gluten-free gnocchi is available, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 tablespoon olive oil: This healthy fat adds flavor and helps sauté the mushrooms to perfection.
8 oz crimini mushrooms: Their robust taste enhances the dish, but white button mushrooms work well too.
Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing out the depth of flavor in each ingredient.
16 oz potato gnocchi: This is the star of the show – choose fresh or shelf-stable for convenience.
½ cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and boosts flavor; vegetable broth provides a great substitute.
1 cup heavy cream: This creamy base makes the sauce luscious; half-and-half can be used for a lighter option.
4 cloves garlic, minced: The star flavor agent, making every bite aromatic and savory.
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs brings depth; feel free to substitute with fresh herbs like basil or oregano.
½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that complements the mushrooms beautifully.
5 oz fresh spinach: Packed with nutrients, its bright color livens up the dish.
¼ teaspoon salt, to taste: Always adjust seasoning to meet your preference.
Coarsely ground black pepper, to taste: A bit of heat that elevates the overall flavor.
Red pepper flakes, to taste: Optional, but adds a lovely kick if you enjoy a bit of spice.

How to Make Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi

Cook Mushrooms: Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, high-sided skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced crimini mushrooms, seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for about 1 or 2 minutes until the mushrooms are lightly browned and softened. Remove half the mushrooms and set them aside on a plate to preserve their texture.

Create the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, add the uncooked potato gnocchi along with the chicken broth, heavy cream, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Stir everything well and bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the gnocchi cook for about 5 minutes while the sauce bubbles away, soaking in all that flavor.

Add Spinach: As the gnocchi cooks, add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Continue cooking on medium heat, stirring frequently for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach wilts to your liking. If you prefer a thicker sauce, feel free to cook a bit longer; the magic is in how creamy you want it!

Season and Assemble: Taste your creamy masterpiece and season it with more salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences. Lastly, top everything off with the remaining half of the cooked mushrooms for a gorgeous finish.

Storing & Reheating

Once it’s time to savor those leftovers, store any uneaten Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you want to save it longer, portion it out and freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain that luscious texture.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Always ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding mushrooms; this helps them brown instead of steam.
If you notice the sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for another minute or two to thicken.
Feel free to experiment with different greens; kale or chard are fantastic alternatives to spinach.
For an extra depth of flavor, try adding some grated Parmesan cheese right before serving.
Don’t crowd the pan when cooking mushrooms for the best texture.
This dish can easily be made ahead of time; just add the fresh spinach before serving.

Indulging in a bowl of Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi means embracing warmth, flavor, and a cherished connection to home-style cooking. The convenience of this dish, combined with its exquisite taste, makes it an instant favorite. Feel free to put your own twist on it; after all, cooking is as much about creativity as it is about following a recipe. Enjoy every delightful bite!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While gnocchi is a wonderful choice for its unique texture, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like penne or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta used, ensuring it’s al dente before combining it with the sauce.

Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

Yes! You can easily make this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi vegan by swapping heavy cream for coconut cream or a cashew cream. Also, consider using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and choose vegan gnocchi if available.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers of Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freezing is an option, but be aware that the texture may slightly change. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat and stir in some extra cream for that luscious texture.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Definitely! For those who prefer a hearty meal, grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted chickpeas make excellent additions. Simply toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking to warm them through without losing their texture.