One-Pan Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi Recipe

Effortless One-Pan Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi Recipe

Tucking into a hearty one-pan spinach and mushroom gnocchi promises pure comfort on chilly evenings.

Soft potato dumplings nestle alongside earthy mushrooms and vibrant green spinach for a delightful meal.

Kitchen magic happens when simple ingredients combine with minimal cleanup required.

Each forkful blends rich textures and subtle herb-infused flavors that dance across your palate.

Quick preparation meets satisfying nutrition in this streamlined recipe perfect for busy nights.

Minimal dishes and maximum flavor make this gnocchi a weeknight champion you’ll want to savor again and again.

Why Creamy Spinach And Mushroom Gnocchi Is So Easy

  • Savor Quick Comfort: One-pan magic transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal without complicated cleanup, making dinner stress-free and delicious.
  • Customize Your Flavor Profile: Flexible recipe allows substitutions like vegetable broth, coconut milk, or different herbs, perfect for adapting to dietary preferences or pantry availability.
  • Master Simple Cooking Techniques: Beginner-friendly method teaches essential skills like sautéing mushrooms, creating creamy sauces, and cooking gnocchi perfectly without overwhelming steps.
  • Nutrition Packed Meal: Combines protein-rich gnocchi with nutrient-dense spinach and mushrooms, delivering a balanced dish that feels indulgent yet provides wholesome ingredients in every bite.

What Goes In Creamy Spinach And Mushroom Gnocchi

Main Ingredients:
  • Gnocchi: Soft, pillowy potato dumplings that create a hearty base for this creamy one-pan meal.
  • Spinach: Fresh leafy green that adds nutrition and vibrant color to the dish.
  • Mushrooms: Earthy and flavorful fungi that provide a rich, meaty texture.
Liquid Base:
  • Chicken Broth, Vegetable Broth: Provides a savory foundation for the sauce.
  • Heavy Cream, Coconut Milk: Creates a rich and creamy texture for the sauce.
Seasonings and Aromatics:
  • Garlic, Italian Seasoning, Herbs de Provence: Adds depth and aromatic flavor to the dish.
  • Salt, Black Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes: Enhances overall taste and provides a slight kick of heat.
  • Smoked Paprika: Contributes a subtle smoky undertone to the sauce.
  • Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and adding a smooth base flavor.

Steps To Cook Spinach And Mushroom Gnocchi Fast

Step 1: Sauté Mushroom Magic

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in sliced mushrooms and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook until they turn golden brown and become wonderfully tender, about 5-7 minutes. Scoop out the mushrooms and set them aside for later.

Step 2: Create Creamy Sauce Base

In the same skillet, pour in:
  • Chicken broth
  • Heavy cream

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Step 3: Build Flavor Layers

Stir in:
  • Minced garlic
  • Italian seasoning
  • Smoked paprika
  • Salt

Mix everything together to create a rich, aromatic base.

Step 4: Cook Fluffy Gnocchi

Add gnocchi to the simmering sauce. Cook until they float to the top, typically 2-3 minutes. If the sauce looks too thick, splash in extra broth or cream to keep it silky smooth.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Fold in:
  • Cooked mushrooms
  • Fresh spinach

Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until spinach wilts and sauce thickens slightly.

Step 6: Season to Perfection

Taste and adjust seasoning with:
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Step 7: Serve and Savor

Dish up this luxurious, comforting gnocchi while it’s piping hot. Enjoy every creamy, flavor-packed bite!

Helpful Tips For Spinach And Mushroom Gnocchi

  • Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version that keeps the creamy texture intact.
  • Use frozen spinach if fresh isn't available, but drain excess water thoroughly to prevent watery sauce.
  • Choose store-bought or homemade gnocchi for maximum flavor control and texture preference.
  • Add protein like cooked chicken or crispy bacon for extra heartiness and nutritional boost.
  • Toast mushrooms separately to develop deeper, richer umami flavor before adding to the final dish.

Flavorful Variations Of Spinach And Mushroom Gnocchi

  • Vegan Spinach Mushroom Gnocchi: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth, swap heavy cream for coconut milk, and add nutritional yeast for extra cheesy flavor.
  • Protein-Packed Gnocchi Bowl: Incorporate grilled chicken or crispy tofu cubes, add roasted red peppers, and sprinkle with toasted pine nuts for crunch.
  • Spicy Mediterranean Gnocchi: Include crumbled feta cheese, kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and increase red pepper flakes for a zesty Mediterranean-inspired version.
  • Gluten-Free Gnocchi Skillet: Use potato-based or cauliflower gnocchi, add roasted zucchini, swap Italian seasoning for fresh basil, and top with dairy-free parmesan.

Best Sides With Spinach And Mushroom Gnocchi

  • Pair with Bold Red Wine: Select a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese to complement the rich, creamy sauce and earthy mushroom flavors.
  • Enhance with Garlic Bread: Serve crispy, toasted garlic bread alongside the gnocchi to soak up the delicious sauce and add a complementary crunch to the soft gnocchi.
  • Balance with Fresh Salad: Create a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the dish's creaminess and provide a refreshing contrast to the heavy pasta.
  • Finish with Parmesan Sprinkle: Top the gnocchi with freshly grated Parmesan cheese to add a salty, nutty dimension that elevates the overall flavor profile of the dish.

How To Store Spinach And Mushroom Gnocchi

  • Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Pack the gnocchi in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Avoid freezing dishes with fresh spinach, as it may become mushy.
  • Place leftovers in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few tablespoons of broth or water to prevent drying. Cover and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming.
  • Warm the gnocchi in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream to restore the creamy texture.

FAQ Section For Spinach And Mushroom Gnocchi

  • Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?

Yes, you can. Just thaw and drain the frozen spinach completely before adding it to the skillet. Squeeze out excess water to prevent the sauce from becoming too watery.

  • Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

To make it vegetarian, simply replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and ensure you’re using a plant-based cream or milk alternative.

  • What type of gnocchi works best for this recipe?

Potato gnocchi is ideal, but you can also use cauliflower or gluten-free gnocchi. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time and adjust liquid as needed.

  • How can I add more protein to this dish?

Consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or white beans to increase the protein content and make the meal more substantial.

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One-Pan Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi Recipe

One-Pan Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi Recipe


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4.5 from 34 reviews

  • Total Time: 17-20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Delightful one-pan spinach and mushroom gnocchi brings Italian comfort straight to your kitchen, marrying earthy mushrooms with tender potato pillows. Creamy sauce and fresh spinach create a quick, satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 package (16 ounces/450 grams) gnocchi
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) mushrooms (crimini or white button), sliced
  • 4 cups fresh spinach

Sauce Ingredients:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Seasonings and Cooking Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Sauté sliced mushrooms in olive oil over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until golden and tender, seasoning with salt and pepper. Transfer to a separate plate.
  2. Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into the same skillet, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer at medium heat.
  3. Incorporate minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and salt into the simmering liquid, stirring thoroughly to blend flavors.
  4. Add gnocchi directly to the skillet, cooking for 2-3 minutes until they float, adjusting liquid consistency as needed to maintain a creamy texture.
  5. Reintroduce the previously cooked mushrooms to the skillet, then fold in fresh spinach leaves, allowing them to wilt and integrate with the sauce for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Enhance the dish’s flavor profile by adjusting seasonings with additional salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
  7. Plate immediately while piping hot, presenting a luxurious, velvety gnocchi preparation that promises comfort and depth of flavor.

Notes

  • Opt for fresh gnocchi from the refrigerated section for the best texture and flavor, avoiding dried or frozen varieties which can become gummy.
  • Switch to plant-based cream and vegetable broth to transform this recipe into a delightful vegetarian meal that doesn’t compromise on richness.
  • Toast mushrooms separately to develop a deeper, more concentrated umami flavor before adding them back into the final sauce for extra depth.
  • Control sauce consistency by gradually adding broth or cream, ensuring a silky smooth texture that clings perfectly to the gnocchi without becoming too runny.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 64 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 2 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
Samantha Lee

Samantha Lee

Recipe Developer & Content Creator

Expertise

Plant-based and vegetarian recipes, Recipe testing and development, Food blogging and digital content creation, Culinary education and workshops​

Education

Oregon Culinary Institute (Portland, OR)

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Emphasized plant-based cooking, global cuisines, and recipe testing methodologies.​

Samantha sees cooking like painting, every fresh herb, every juicy tomato, a new splash of color on a canvas.
After graduating from Oregon Culinary Institute, she blended her love of global cuisines and plant-based cooking into recipes that feel fresh, fearless, and full of heart.
Samantha’s kitchen is a place where comfort food gets a modern remix and every meal feels like a little adventure. When she’s not cooking, she’s out exploring farmers’ markets, sketching new recipe ideas, or getting her hands dirty in a community garden.

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