When the scent of garlic mingles with the warmth of creamy sauce, it’s hard not to feel at home in the kitchen. That’s exactly how I felt the first time I prepared this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi. It’s a delightful dish that brings a touch of Italian comfort right to your dining table, without the fuss. Imagine perfectly pillowy gnocchi, enveloped in a dreamy garlic cream sauce, bursting with the earthy flavors of sautéed mushrooms and fresh spinach.
This one-pan wonder comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a go-to choice for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet healthy. Plus, this recipe offers the flexibility to add your favorite protein, whether it’s tender chicken or even crispy tofu if you want to keep it vegetarian. Join me as we whip up this ultimate comfort food that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why is Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: This one-pan dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Comfort in Every Bite: The creamy garlic sauce and tender gnocchi provide the ultimate comfort food experience.
Versatile for All: You can easily customize it with proteins or additional veggies, suiting every taste preference.
Rich in Flavor: Sautéed mushrooms and fresh spinach create a deliciously hearty dish that feels indulgent yet healthy.
Nutritionally Balanced: Each serving is packed with fiber and essential nutrients, making it a wholesome addition to your meal plan.
Impressive Presentation: This dish looks elegant enough for guests, ensuring it’s a crowd-pleaser at any dinner gathering.
Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi Ingredients
For the Sauce
- Olive Oil – Provides fat for sautéing mushrooms, enhancing flavor; can substitute with butter for a richer taste.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor; can be substituted with garlic powder (1 tsp, adjust to taste).
- Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Creates a rich and creamy sauce; replace with half-and-half for a lighter option.
- Chicken Broth (½ cup) – Adds depth of flavor to the sauce; substitute with vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.
- Italian Seasoning (½ tsp) – Enhances flavor profile with a blend of herbs; substitute with individual herbs if desired.
- Smoked Paprika (½ tsp) – Adds warmth and slight smokiness to the sauce; optional based on preference.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
For the Gnocchi
- Potato Gnocchi (16 oz) – Quick-cooking base of the dish, providing structure; use gluten-free gnocchi for a gluten-free option.
For the Vegetables
- Mushrooms (8 oz, Crimini) – Adds umami flavor and meaty texture; substitute with button or shiitake mushrooms as necessary.
- Fresh Spinach (5 oz) – Incorporates greens and color; substitute with kale or Swiss chard if desired.
For Finishing Touches
- Additional Salt, Pepper, and Red Pepper Flakes (to taste) – For final seasoning and added heat if desired.
With this Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi ingredients list in hand, you’re just steps away from creating a deliciously comforting dish bursting with flavor and warmth. Enjoy your cooking journey!
How to Make Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi
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Sauté Mushrooms: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the sliced mushrooms, seasoned with salt and pepper, for about 1-2 minutes until lightly browned. Remove half of the mushrooms and set aside for topping later.
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Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, add the uncooked potato gnocchi, chicken broth, heavy cream, and minced garlic. Stir in the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil on medium heat.
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Cook Gnocchi: Cover the skillet and cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi is tender and floating to the top.
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Add Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes, mixing well to combine with the sauce.
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Final Assembly: Season the dish to taste with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Top the plated gnocchi with the reserved sautéed mushrooms for an extra touch of flavor.
Optional: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi Variations
Customize your serving of creamy goodness to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences!
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Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream to create a rich, non-dairy sauce that still feels indulgent.
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Protein-Packed: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or even crispy tofu for an added boost of protein, transforming this dish into a hearty meal.
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Veggie Lover’s Delight: Add vibrant vegetables like diced zucchini, asparagus, or sun-dried tomatoes to get an extra punch of flavor and nutrition.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute traditional potato gnocchi with gluten-free gnocchi or even pasta alternatives made from chickpeas for a deliciously diverse option.
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Herb Lovers: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can replace dried Italian seasoning. This variation not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful pop of color.
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Smoky Temptation: Enhance the depth of flavor by adding a touch of smoked sausage or a sprinkle of bacon bits to complement the creamy sauce.
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Spicy Kick: If you love heat, layer in some red pepper flakes or even diced jalapeños to give your dish a fiery twist.
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Nutty Crunch: Top with crispy, toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture.
Feel free to mix and match these variations to suit your mood and dietary needs. Enjoy experimenting!
Make Ahead Options
Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi is a fantastic dish to prep ahead, especially for those bustling weeknights! You can sauté the mushrooms and prepare the creamy garlic sauce (up to 24 hours in advance). Simply refrigerate both components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can cook the gnocchi in advance, but it’s best to keep it separate and only combine it right before serving to prevent mushiness. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, heat the sauce gently on the stove while cooking the gnocchi according to package instructions. This way, you’ll achieve a delicious, comforting dish with minimal effort—perfect for busy home cooks!
What to Serve with Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi?
When it comes to enjoying a delightful meal, sides can elevate your experience by adding contrasting textures and fresh flavors.
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Garlic Bread: A warm, crusty bread elevates the experience, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
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Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich gnocchi. Toss in some nuts for crunch.
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Steamed Broccoli: Tender, bright green broccoli offers a healthy touch, balancing the dish with its lightness and nutritious benefits.
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Roasted Carrots: Sweet and slightly caramelized, roasted carrots add a delightful burst of color and flavor to your table, complementing the savory notes of the gnocchi.
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Homemade Lemonade: A glass of fresh, zesty lemonade provides a refreshing drink option, counteracting any heaviness with its bright acidity.
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Tiramisu: Finish your meal on a sweet note with classic tiramisu. The coffee and mascarpone flavors offer a lovely, indulgent pairing after the savory main.
Each of these pairings enhances the experience of your creamy spinach and mushroom gnocchi, ensuring a meal that’s not just nourishing, but also bursting with flavors and textures.
How to Store and Freeze Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to preserve the creamy sauce’s consistency.
Freezer: Freeze any remaining Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.
Avoid Temperature Fluctuations: Don’t leave the dish at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain freshness and flavor.
Expert Tips for Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi
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Gnocchi Texture: Ensure not to overcook the gnocchi; they should be tender but firm to the bite, not mushy.
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Flavor Boosting: Adjust your seasoning gradually; starting low on salt and pepper allows you to control the flavor without overpowering the creamy sauce.
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Mushroom Browning: Cook mushrooms on medium-high heat to achieve a nice golden color without burning them, enhancing the umami flavor in your Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi.
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Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce consistency, simmer for a few more minutes or reduce the amount of broth gradually.
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Protein Add-ins: When adding proteins like chicken or shrimp, ensure they are fully cooked before mixing them into the dish for a satisfying, well-rounded meal.
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Greens Variation: Feel free to substitute spinach with other greens like kale or Swiss chard, which will still provide vibrant color and nutrients to your meal.
Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi Recipe FAQs
What types of mushrooms work best for this dish?
Absolutely! Crimini mushrooms are a fantastic choice for their rich umami flavor and meaty texture. However, you can easily substitute them with button or shiitake mushrooms if you prefer. Just remember that different mushrooms will impart slightly different flavors, so choose what you enjoy best!
How should I store any leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi again, just reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.
Can I freeze Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply place it in the fridge overnight. When it’s time to reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to help regain that creamy consistency.
What should I do if my gnocchi is mushy?
If you find that your gnocchi has turned mushy, it usually means they were overcooked or sat too long in the sauce. For future preparations, make sure to cook the gnocchi just until they float to the top of the water and are tender but firm. Mixing them gently in the sauce will help keep their lovely texture intact!
Are there any allergens I should be aware of in this recipe?
Yes, there are a couple of things to note! The heavy cream can cause issues for those with dairy allergies, so you can easily replace it with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream. Also, ensure the chicken broth is free from allergens like gluten, if that’s a concern for you, or substitute with vegetable stock. Always check labels to be safe!
Can I make this dish vegan?
Very! To make your Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi vegan, simply replace the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut milk, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can still enjoy the same creamy texture and delicious flavor without missing any of the comfort!
Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi in Just 20 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the sliced mushrooms, seasoned with salt and pepper, for about 1-2 minutes until lightly browned. Remove half of the mushrooms and set aside for topping later.
- In the same skillet, add the uncooked potato gnocchi, chicken broth, heavy cream, and minced garlic. Stir in the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil on medium heat.
- Cover the skillet and cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi is tender and floating to the top.
- Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes, mixing well to combine with the sauce.
- Season the dish to taste with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Top the plated gnocchi with the reserved sautéed mushrooms for an extra touch of flavor.