Looking for a tasty dinner idea? Try my Creamy Spinach Mushroom Gnocchi! This dish combines tender gnocchi with fresh flavors from spinach and mushrooms, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. With simple steps and easy ingredients, you’ll have a delightful meal ready in no time. Let’s dive into how to create this comforting dish that is sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients
Essential Ingredients
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
For this creamy spinach mushroom gnocchi, you need simple yet flavorful ingredients. Start with one pound of potato gnocchi, which gives a nice, soft texture. Olive oil adds richness. Use two tablespoons to sauté your onions and garlic. A medium onion, finely chopped, will sweeten the dish. Add three minced garlic cloves for a robust flavor.
Next, pick eight ounces of fresh mushrooms. I like cremini or button mushrooms for their taste. You will also need five ounces of fresh spinach. This will add a lovely color and nutrition to your meal.
For the creamy sauce, grab one cup of heavy cream and half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese adds saltiness and creaminess. A teaspoon of Italian seasoning brings warmth and depth. Don't forget salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Lastly, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
Use these ingredients to create a comforting meal. Each one plays a key role in building flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Gnocchi
Bringing the water to a boil: Start with a large pot. Fill it with water and add salt. Set the pot on high heat. Wait for the water to bubble and boil.
Cooking the gnocchi: Once boiling, add the potato gnocchi. Cook them until they float to the top. This usually takes just a few minutes. When they rise, they are ready. Drain the gnocchi and set them aside.
Cooking the Sauce
Sautéing onions and garlic: In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil. Heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion. Cook until soft, about 4-5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic. Stir for about a minute until it smells amazing.
Adding mushrooms and spinach: Toss in the sliced mushrooms. Keep cooking for 5-7 minutes. The mushrooms will soften and release their juices. Then, add the chopped spinach. Cook for another 2 minutes. You want the spinach to wilt down nicely.
Incorporating the cream and Parmesan: Lower the heat. Carefully pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to mix everything together. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes. It will thicken and become rich. Now, add the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese melts. Taste your sauce and add salt and pepper to your liking.
Combining the Ingredients
Folding in the cooked gnocchi: Gently add the cooked gnocchi to the sauce. Use a spatula to fold them in. Make sure each gnocchi is well-coated with the sauce.
Adjusting seasoning and thickness: Remove the skillet from heat. Let it sit for a minute. This helps the sauce thicken slightly. Taste again and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Gnocchi
To get the best texture in your gnocchi, follow these steps:
- Boil salted water in a large pot.
- Add the gnocchi when the water is boiling.
- Cook until they float, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Drain them gently to avoid breaking.
Avoid overcooking by watching them closely. If you leave them too long, they become mushy.
Enhancing Flavor
For a richer taste, try these seasoning tips:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Mix in a bit more Italian seasoning for depth.
The best mushrooms for this dish are cremini or button mushrooms. They have a nice, earthy flavor that pairs well with the cream.
Visual Appeal
To make your dish look as good as it tastes, serve it in shallow bowls.
Here are some garnishing ideas:
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top.
- Add a dusting of Parmesan cheese.
- Drizzle a little olive oil for shine and flavor.
These small touches make your creamy spinach mushroom gnocchi inviting and beautiful!
Variations
Additional Ingredients
You can make this dish even better by adding proteins. Chicken or shrimp work well. Simply cook them before adding to the sauce. This adds flavor and makes it heartier.
You can also mix in different vegetables. Try bell peppers, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes. Each adds unique taste and texture. Plus, it’s a great way to use up what you have at home.
Dietary Modifications
If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free gnocchi. Many brands offer this now, and it tastes great. Always check the label to be sure.
For vegan alternatives, swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan cheese. This gives a cheesy flavor without dairy. These swaps make the dish plant-based and still tasty.
Sauce Options
To explore lighter cream options, use half-and-half or low-fat milk. You may need to add a bit more cheese to keep it creamy. Just stir as you cook to ensure it mixes well.
If you want a dairy-free sauce, try almond or oat milk with a bit of cornstarch to thicken. Blend it well and add your seasonings. This keeps the dish creamy and plant-based without losing flavor.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To keep your creamy spinach mushroom gnocchi fresh, store leftovers right away. Place the dish in an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers work great. Let it cool down first, then seal it. This helps keep the flavors intact. Use it within three days for the best taste.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, choose the right method. The stove-top is best for keeping creaminess. Heat a skillet over low heat and add a splash of cream or water. Stir often to prevent sticking. You can also use a microwave. Heat it in short bursts. Stir in between to keep it creamy.
Freezing Tips
If you want to save it for later, freezing is an option. Pack the dish in a freezer-safe container. Leave some space for expansion. Use it within three months for the best flavor. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it gently as mentioned before to restore that creamy goodness.
FAQs
What type of gnocchi is best for this recipe?
You can use both store-bought and homemade gnocchi. Store-bought gnocchi is quick and easy. It cooks fast and tastes great. Homemade gnocchi has a fresh, soft texture that many love. If you have time, making it from scratch adds a personal touch.
Can I use frozen spinach in place of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. It saves time and is easy to find. However, fresh spinach has a brighter flavor and better texture. Frozen spinach may become mushy when cooked. If using frozen, make sure to drain it well before adding.
How can I make this dish healthier?
You can make creamy spinach mushroom gnocchi healthier with a few swaps. Use low-fat cream or a plant-based milk for fewer calories. Add extra veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for more nutrients. You can also reduce the cheese or use a lighter cheese.
What can I pair with creamy spinach mushroom gnocchi?
This dish pairs well with a side salad. A simple green salad with lemon dressing works nicely. For a heartier option, serve garlic bread on the side. As for wine, a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavors beautifully.
This blog post covered a delicious creamy spinach mushroom gnocchi recipe. We explored key ingredients, easy steps, and useful tips for perfecting the dish. Remember, you can mix it up with proteins and vegetables to fit your taste. Store leftovers properly and enjoy them later. With these insights, you can impress your family and friends with your cooking. Now, grab your ingredients and start making something tasty!

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