Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi

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Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi: A Quick and Creamy One-Pan Meal

Looking for a delicious and quick meal to enjoy during busy weeknights? This Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi is the perfect solution! With its creamy sauce, savory mushrooms, and the freshness of spinach, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings in under 30 minutes. It’s a one-pan meal that combines hearty potato gnocchi, earthy mushrooms, and rich cream, all topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Here’s how you can make this mouthwatering dish.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb potato gnocchi
  • 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (cremini, button, or shiitake)
  • 5 oz fresh spinach
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a hint of spice)
  • 1 tsp lemon juice (optional for a fresh, zesty finish)
  • Extra Parmesan and fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Gnocchi:

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the gnocchi. Cook according to package instructions, typically 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Once done, drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Mushrooms:

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until they become tender and start to brown. Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking.

3. Add the Garlic and Spinach:

Once the mushrooms are cooked, add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the fresh spinach to the pan and cook, stirring frequently, until the spinach wilts and reduces in size (about 2-3 minutes).

4. Make the Creamy Sauce:

Lower the heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the mushrooms and spinach. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes, letting the cream thicken slightly. If you’re using half-and-half, the sauce will be a bit lighter but just as creamy.

5. Add Seasoning:

Season the creamy mixture with ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a slight kick. Stir everything well to combine.

6. Combine the Gnocchi:

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the gnocchi in the creamy mushroom and spinach mixture. Let everything simmer for another 1-2 minutes, so the gnocchi can absorb the flavors.

7. Add the Finishing Touches:

Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the cheese melts into the sauce, making it even richer and creamier. If you like a bit of tang, squeeze in 1 teaspoon of lemon juice for a burst of freshness.

8. Garnish and Serve:

Remove the skillet from heat and serve the gnocchi immediately. Top with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for added flavor and a beautiful presentation.

Tips for the Best Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi:

  • Mushroom Variety: Feel free to mix and match different types of mushrooms for added flavor and texture. Shiitake mushrooms provide a rich, earthy taste, while cremini mushrooms are more mild. You can even add a combination of different mushrooms for a unique twist.
  • Lighten Up the Sauce: If you prefer a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. The dish will still be creamy and delicious!
  • Add Protein: To make the dish more filling, consider adding grilled chicken or crispy bacon bits for a bit of protein. They pair wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
  • Vegan Version: For a dairy-free option, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

Why You’ll Love This Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi:

This Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi is a perfect weeknight meal that doesn’t require hours of preparation. The gnocchi adds a comforting, pillowy texture that absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully. The mushrooms add savory depth, while the spinach gives the dish a burst of color and freshness. The addition of Parmesan cheese and optional red pepper flakes enhances the flavor, making it a dish everyone will love.

So, next time you’re craving a quick yet indulgent meal, this Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi will hit the spot! Ready in less than 30 minutes, it’s the ideal choice for a busy weeknight dinner.

Enjoy the rich flavors, creamy sauce, and tender gnocchi in every bite!

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