When it comes to comfort food, nothing embodies that warm, cozy feeling quite like a good plate of gnocchi. This Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Gnocchi is a delightful dish that will fill your kitchen with inviting aromas and make your taste buds sing. It’s a recipe I keep coming back to, whether it’s a chilly evening or a special family gathering. There’s something about the soft, pillowy texture of gnocchi, combined with the rich cream sauce and fresh greens, that simply feels like home.
This dish brings together simple yet flavorful ingredients: one package of gnocchi, two cups of fresh spinach, and a cup of sliced mushrooms. When you mix these with a cup of heavy cream, a tablespoon of olive oil, and two cloves of minced garlic, you get a flavor profile that is both earthy and creamy. The salt and pepper enhance the natural flavors, while a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top adds that perfect finishing touch. It’s not just a meal; it’s a creamy embrace on a plate.
What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. You start by cooking the gnocchi according to the package instructions, then sautéing garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Mushrooms come next, followed by fresh spinach, which wilts beautifully in the heat. After adding the heavy cream and simmering for just a couple of minutes, you toss the cooked gnocchi into the skillet to coat it in that luscious sauce. A dash of salt and pepper finishes it off, and you can serve it warm with Parmesan. It’s a straightforward process that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, making it perfect for any cook.
This recipe is ideal for those chilly nights when you crave something warm and hearty or for potlucks where home-cooked meals shine. It’s one of those dishes that impresses without requiring a culinary degree.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Gnocchi
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in about 20-30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of these ingredients in your pantry or fridge.
- Comfort Food: This gnocchi dish is rich, creamy, and satisfying—just what you need for a cozy night in.
- Vegetarian Option: This recipe is meat-free, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their meals.
- Customizable: Feel free to tweak the recipe with different vegetables or spices to suit your tastes.
Gnocchi Tips
Gnocchi can be a bit tricky if you’re not familiar with it, but selecting the right kind is key. When buying gnocchi, look for a package that feels soft and light. You can choose between fresh gnocchi, generally found in the refrigerated section, or shelf-stable varieties. Fresh gnocchi cooks quickly and gives you a delightful texture, while dried gnocchi will need a few more minutes in boiling water. Make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best results.
Options for Substitutions
- Mushrooms: Swap out button mushrooms for cremini or shiitake for a different flavor.
- Cream: Use half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter version.
- Spinach: If you can’t find fresh spinach, frozen spinach can be a quick substitute—just ensure it’s thawed and drained well.
- Garlic: Garlic powder can be used if you don’t have fresh garlic on hand.
- Cheese: For a lactose-free option, try nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan cheese.
- Olive Oil: Feel free to use butter or any neutral oil if you prefer.
Watch Out for These Mistakes
One common pitfall is overcooking the gnocchi. Gnocchi should float on the surface of the boiling water; this typically means it’s done. If you leave it too long, it can turn mushy, ruining the texture.
Another mistake is adding the spinach and garlic too early. The garlic burns quickly and can become bitter. Always add the garlic first to allow it to become fragrant and then add mushrooms before the spinach to ensure each ingredient cooks properly.
Lastly, don’t forget to season your dish adequately with salt and pepper. This simple step can elevate the flavors and is crucial for a delicious outcome.
What to Serve With Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Gnocchi?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the creamy gnocchi. Alternatively, consider serving it with some garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables to round out your meal. A crisp white wine could also be a lovely addition.
Storage Instructions
Store: If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Freeze: This dish can be frozen for about one month. To do so, ensure it is in a freezer-safe container or bag before placing it in the freezer.
Reheat: To reheat, use a stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in a safe dish, but stir halfway through to heat evenly.
Recipe Info
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 4
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 800-900
- Protein: 20-30g
- Fat: 40-50g
- Carbohydrates: 80-100g
Ingredients
- 1 package gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi
Begin by cooking the gnocchi according to the package instructions. Once they rise to the surface of the water, that indicates they are ready. Drain the gnocchi and set it aside for later use.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it until it becomes fragrant, which usually takes about 1 minute. Be careful not to let it burn.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms
Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook them until they are soft and browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes, depending on the heat of your stove.
Step 4: Add the Spinach
Stir in the fresh spinach next. Cook until the spinach is wilted and has reduced. This will only take a couple of minutes.
Step 5: Pour in the Cream
Now, pour the heavy cream into the skillet, stirring to combine everything. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes so the flavors meld together.
Step 6: Combine with Gnocchi
Finally, add your drained gnocchi to the skillet. Gently toss it to coat the gnocchi in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to your taste preference.
Conclusion
In summary, this Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Gnocchi is a heartwarming dish that would make a wonderful addition to your recipe collection. It’s simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and ideal for any occasion. I invite you to try making this dish at home. Don’t forget to share your experience or feedback, and feel free to explore other comforting recipes on the blog!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! You can replace the heavy cream with a plant-based cream and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and simply add the gnocchi right before serving.
What if I don’t like mushrooms?
No problem! You can substitute mushrooms with other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or simply omit them altogether.
Print
Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Gnocchi
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and creamy gnocchi dish with mushrooms and spinach, perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- 1 package gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until soft and browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, a couple of minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
- Add the drained gnocchi to the skillet and gently toss to coat in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
For a vegan option, substitute heavy cream with plant-based cream and omit or replace Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 675
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 90mg