Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi (One-Pan, 20 Minutes)

Introduction

Welcome to a cozy culinary adventure where comfort meets convenience in the form of Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi! This one-pan wonder is a delightful blend of rich flavors and textures, promising a satisfying meal that can be whipped up in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you simply crave something special without the hassle, this recipe combines earthy mushrooms, creamy sauce, and pillowy gnocchi for a dish that feels both gourmet and heartwarming.

The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor achieved with a handful of well-chosen ingredients. Crimini mushrooms bring a meaty texture, while a mix of heavy cream, chicken broth, and spices create a lusciously smooth backdrop for the potato gnocchi. Each bite is infused with hints of garlic, smoked paprika, and Italian seasonings, culminating in a beautifully balanced dish that is both nourishing and indulgent.

What sets this recipe apart is its versatility and ease of preparation. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this dish will impress with its straightforward steps and minimal cleanup. It’s also a fantastic base to tweak according to your dietary preferences or whatever you have on hand. So grab your skillet, and let’s dive into making this comforting, creamy gnocchi dish that’s sure to become a new favorite in your home-cooking repertoire.

Recipe: Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 oz mushrooms (crimini), sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 16 oz potato gnocchi
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (or Herbs from Provence)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (plus more for garnish)
• 5 oz fresh spinach
• ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• Coarsely ground black pepper (to taste)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook mushrooms:

• Heat olive oil in a large, high-sided, heavy-bottomed skillet.
• Add sliced mushrooms seasoned with salt and pepper.
• Cook on high heat for about 1-2 minutes until lightly browned and softened.
• Remove half of the mushrooms from the skillet and set aside.

1. Make creamy sauce:

• In the same skillet with half of the cooked mushrooms, add gnocchi, chicken broth, heavy cream, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and salt.
• Bring to a boil on medium heat, then cover with a lid and let simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to cook and the sauce to thicken slightly.

1. Add spinach:

• Mix in fresh spinach and continue to cook on medium heat, stirring frequently, until the spinach wilts and integrates into the sauce (about 5 minutes).
• Adjust the seasoning with more salt, coarse black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.

1. Assembly:

• Return the reserved mushrooms to the skillet, stirring gently to combine.
• Sprinkle additional smoked paprika and red pepper flakes for a burst of color and flavor.

Preparation time: 5 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Enjoy this creamy, comforting dish as a main course or a lavish side. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine and a light salad for a complete meal that is as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye. Happy cooking!

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