Spinach & Mushroom Gnocchi w/ Garlic Smoked Paprika Sauce

Name: Spinach & Mushroom Gnocchi w/ Garlic Smoked Paprika Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Taste Adventures

This delectable Spinach & Mushroom Gnocchi w/ Garlic Smoked Paprika Sauce is a comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of sautéed mushrooms and spinach with a creamy, smoky sauce.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-11T20:01:05.944Z

This dish brings together the earthy flavors of mushrooms and the freshness of spinach, all enveloped in a garlic-infused smoked paprika sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy smoked paprika sauce adds a unique flavor twist
Quick and easy to prepare for weeknight meals
Nutritious ingredients make it a wholesome choice

      

A Flavorful Combination

Spinach and mushrooms are a classic pairing that brings both earthiness and nutrition to the table. The mushrooms add a meaty texture and umami flavor, while the spinach contributes vibrant color and essential vitamins. Together, they create a harmonious blend that elevates the gnocchi into a wholesome meal. This dish not only satisfies your hunger but also nourishes your body with fiber, iron, and antioxidants.

Gnocchi, with its soft and pillowy texture, serves as the perfect base for this dish. It absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether you're a fan of Italian cuisine or just looking for a comforting meal, this Spinach & Mushroom Gnocchi will surely impress your taste buds.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the standout features of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few fresh ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can whip up this delicious dish in under 30 minutes. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The straightforward steps ensure that even novice cooks can achieve impressive results with ease.

Moreover, using pre-packaged gnocchi streamlines the cooking process. You can find gnocchi in most grocery stores, allowing you to skip the labor-intensive task of making it from scratch. The quick sautéing of vegetables and the easy-to-make sauce mean you'll be enjoying your meal in no time, making it not just delicious but also practical.

Nutritional Benefits

This Spinach & Mushroom Gnocchi is more than just a tasty dish; it’s packed with nutrition. Spinach is a powerhouse of vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron and calcium. These nutrients are essential for maintaining strong bones, boosting immunity, and promoting healthy skin. Adding spinach to your meal helps you meet your daily vegetable intake while enhancing the overall flavor.

Mushrooms, on the other hand, provide essential B vitamins and minerals, including selenium, which supports immune function. Combined with the creamy sauce made from heavy cream and Parmesan, this dish strikes a balance between indulgence and nutrition, making it a guilt-free comfort food option that doesn't compromise on flavor.

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi

1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Garlic Smoked Paprika Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking for the best results.

Instructions

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the top, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.

Season with salt and pepper.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add the heavy cream, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Mix in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious gnocchi with a side of crusty bread!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them properly is key to maintaining the flavor and texture of your Spinach & Mushroom Gnocchi. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or a little water to loosen the sauce and prevent it from becoming too thick.

For longer storage, consider freezing the gnocchi without the sauce. In this case, you can freeze the cooked gnocchi in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once frozen. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply boil the gnocchi from frozen and toss it with the freshly prepared sauce for a quick meal.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your dining experience, consider serving your Spinach & Mushroom Gnocchi with a side salad or garlic bread. A light arugula or mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs wonderfully, adding a refreshing crunch that balances the creamy sauce. Garlic bread, with its crunchy texture and buttery flavor, complements the rich dish perfectly.

For those looking to elevate the dish further, you can add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat or some toasted pine nuts for an added crunch. These simple additions can transform your meal into a gourmet experience, impressing family and friends alike.

Variations to Try

While this recipe is delicious as is, don't hesitate to get creative with variations! You can swap out the spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile. Adding sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes can introduce new textures and tastes as well. If you're a fan of protein, consider including cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas to make the dish more substantial.

For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with a plant-based alternative, such as cashew cream or coconut cream, which still provides a rich consistency while catering to dietary preferences. With these variations, you can customize the dish to suit your tastes and dietary needs, ensuring that it's always a hit at your dinner table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, just follow the package instructions for cooking times.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream or a plant-based cream for a lighter version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or shrimp would pair nicely.