Ingredients
Mushrooms and Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or Herbs from Provence)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (or more to taste)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Coarsely ground black pepper, to taste
Sauce and Gnocchi
- 16 ounces potato gnocchi
- ½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream
Greens and Additional Seasoning
- 4 ounces fresh spinach
- ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Coarsely ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Mushrooms: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped mushrooms and cook for a couple of minutes until they start softening. Season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Continue to cook for about 13 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are lightly browned and tender. Set aside half of the cooked mushrooms on a plate for later use.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet (no need to clean), add the uncooked potato gnocchi, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, cover the skillet with a lid and let cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the gnocchi to cook and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
- Add Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet with the gnocchi and creamy sauce. Stir frequently for about 4 minutes, or until the spinach wilts down to your desired consistency.
- Assembly and Final Seasoning: Return the reserved cooked mushrooms to the skillet and gently fold into the creamy gnocchi and spinach mixture. Season with additional salt, freshly ground black pepper, red pepper flakes, and smoked paprika according to your taste preference. Stir well and serve warm.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter or vegan adaptation.
- Adjust the amount of smoked paprika and red pepper flakes to control the level of smokiness and heat.
- Be sure not to overcook the gnocchi to maintain their soft, pillowy texture.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
