Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Gnocchi Recipe
If you’re in the mood for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you absolutely have to try this Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Gnocchi. It’s the kind of meal that combines tender, pillowy gnocchi with a luxuriously smooth cream sauce packed with earthy mushrooms and vibrant spinach, all finished with a touch of sharp Parmesan. Perfect for cozy nights in or whenever you crave something both comforting and sophisticated, this recipe strikes the ideal balance between hearty and fresh. Trust me, once you make this, it quickly becomes a favorite you’ll want to whip up again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of simple, accessible ingredients that each play a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color in your dish. Every item brings something special to the table, whether it’s the silky creaminess, the fragrant mushrooms, or the fresh green pop of spinach.
- Olive oil: Adds a smooth base for sautéing and enhances the overall flavor without overpowering.
- Onion: Provides natural sweetness and a bit of bite when sautéed to golden perfection.
- Cremini mushrooms: These add an earthy, meaty texture that’s perfect for pairing with cream.
- Garlic: Lends aromatic depth that elevates the entire sauce.
- Italian seasoning: A delicate blend of herbs that rounds out the flavor profile beautifully.
- Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and complexity to the sauce.
- Dry white wine: Helps deglaze the pan and infuses bright acidity.
- Heavy cream: Creates that signature silky, indulgent sauce.
- Potato gnocchi: Soft, fluffy dumplings that soak up all the delicious sauce.
- Fresh baby spinach: Brings vibrant color and a slight earthiness, balancing richness.
- Parmesan cheese: For a sharp, salty finish that ties every bite together.
- Salt & pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all ingredients.
- Fresh parsley: A touch of brightness and freshness as the final garnish.
How to Make Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Gnocchi
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then toss in the chopped onion. Let it cook for about five minutes until it softens and develops a touch of golden color. This soft sweetness forms the perfect foundation for the sauce’s complex flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms and Garlic
Next, add in the sliced cremini mushrooms, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for about five more minutes, stirring occasionally. The mushrooms will release their juices and soak up all those savory aromatics, transforming the pan into a fragrant, flavorful base.
Step 3: Build the Sauce with Mustard and Wine
Stir in a heaping teaspoon of Dijon mustard, which brings a subtle zest, then pour in the dry white wine. Let it bubble for a minute or two to reduce slightly while mingling flavors, making your sauce complex and satisfying.
Step 4: Add Cream and Gnocchi
Pour in the heavy cream, then add the potato gnocchi straight to the pan. Wait for the sauce to bubble gently again, then cover with a lid and reduce heat to medium-low. Let it cook for about three minutes—this step lets the gnocchi absorb the creamy sauce and become delightfully tender.
Step 5: Incorporate Spinach
Stir in the packed fresh baby spinach, cover again, and cook for another three minutes. The spinach wilts beautifully, adding vibrant green color, a fresh flavor, and important nutrients that brighten the dish.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Seasoning
Finally, stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good mix and sample a bite — the gnocchi should be soft and the sauce rich and creamy. If needed, let it cook a few extra minutes. Top with chopped fresh parsley for a lovely fresh finish.
How to Serve Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Gnocchi
Garnishes
For garnishing, I love adding extra Parmesan cheese for a melty, cheesy punch and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or even thyme leaves for a pop of green and herbal brightness. A grind of black pepper on top adds a nice finishing touch that complements the creaminess perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish stands wonderfully on its own, but if you want to round out the meal I recommend a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness, or some crusty garlic bread for soaking up every last bit of sauce. Roasted or steamed seasonal veggies can add nice variety and texture, too.
Creative Ways to Present
You can elevate the presentation by serving this creamy mushroom and spinach gnocchi in shallow bowls, topped with a few whole sautéed mushrooms or a small handful of toasted pine nuts for crunch. For a special occasion, drizzle a little truffle oil on top for a decadent aroma that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so it’s a great dish to enjoy as a quick lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
While gnocchi dishes sometimes change texture when frozen, you can freeze the creamy mushroom and spinach gnocchi in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and possibly adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce’s luscious texture. Microwaving works too, but stirring halfway through helps prevent dry spots.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture diluting the sauce.
Is it okay to use a different type of mushroom?
Absolutely! While cremini mushrooms offer a nice meaty texture, you can use button mushrooms, shiitake, or even a mix for varied flavors.
What’s the best wine to use in this recipe?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works wonderfully to add acidity and depth without overpowering the creaminess.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can make a dairy-free version by swapping heavy cream for coconut cream or a cashew-based cream and using a dairy-free cheese alternative, though the flavor will be slightly different.
How can I tell when the gnocchi is perfectly cooked?
The gnocchi should be tender and pillowy without feeling doughy. If they begin to float and have a soft bite, they’re ready to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
Making Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Gnocchi is one of those experiences that turns simple ingredients into a soul-satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this dish brings comfort and delight to the table. I hope you’ll enjoy making and savoring it as much as I do — it’s sure to become a beloved classic in your recipe collection.
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Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Gnocchi Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Gnocchi is a comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring tender potato gnocchi simmered in a luscious creamy sauce with sautéed cremini mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a touch of Dijon mustard and white wine for depth of flavor. Finished with parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, it’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 12 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, packed
- Fresh parsley, chopped (to taste)
Liquids & Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 heaping teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/3 cup dry white wine
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Other Ingredients
- 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Sauté Onion: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened and slightly browned for enhanced flavor.
- Cook Mushrooms and Garlic: Add the sliced cremini mushrooms, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms release their moisture and become tender.
- Add Mustard and Wine: Stir in the Dijon mustard and pour in the dry white wine. Allow the mixture to bubble and reduce slightly for about a minute to meld the flavors and evaporate the alcohol.
- Incorporate Cream and Gnocchi: Pour in the heavy cream and add the uncooked potato gnocchi. Wait until the sauce starts to bubble again, then cover the pan and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it cook for 3 minutes to soften the gnocchi.
- Cook Spinach: Stir in the fresh baby spinach, then cover the pan again and cook for another 3 minutes until spinach wilts and the gnocchi are tender.
- Finish with Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Check the gnocchi’s softness; if needed, cook for a few more minutes until perfectly tender. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately, optionally with additional parmesan cheese on top.
Notes
- You can substitute cremini mushrooms with white button mushrooms or shiitake for a different flavor profile.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- If you prefer, dry white wine can be omitted or replaced with vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic option.
- Fresh spinach can be substituted with baby kale, though cooking time may vary.
- Gnocchi can be store-bought or homemade, but cooking times may differ slightly.
- Adjust salt and pepper gradually to suit your taste preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing and Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 510 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: creamy gnocchi recipe, mushroom gnocchi, spinach gnocchi, Italian gnocchi dish, easy gnocchi dinner, vegetarian pasta recipes
