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 lb gnocchi; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

A delightful combination of tender gnocchi, fresh spinach, and earthy mushrooms, all enveloped in a creamy garlic smoked paprika sauce.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-11T16:17:05.015Z

This Spinach & Mushroom Gnocchi w/ Garlic Smoked Paprika Sauce is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a quick meal for friends!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy garlic sauce with a hint of smoky paprika
Tender gnocchi that soaks up all the flavors
Packed with nutritious spinach and mushrooms
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights

      

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

When it comes to quick and satisfying dinners, this Spinach & Mushroom Gnocchi with Garlic Smoked Paprika Sauce stands out. The entire dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can focus on what really matters—enjoying a delicious meal with your loved ones.

Gnocchi, a potato-based pasta, is not only delightful in texture but also a fantastic canvas for flavors. This recipe highlights the beauty of fresh ingredients and transforms them into a comforting dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Plus, the combination of creamy sauce and tender gnocchi creates a satisfying bite that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s also packed with nutritional goodness. Spinach is loaded with vitamins A and K, as well as iron, making it a powerhouse of nutrients. Mushrooms contribute essential B vitamins and antioxidants, promoting overall health and well-being. Together, these ingredients create a balanced meal that nourishes both body and soul.

The creamy sauce, enriched with heavy cream and smoked paprika, adds a depth of flavor without compromising on nutrition. While it provides a rich taste, it's the wholesome ingredients that ensure you’re not just indulging but also fueling your body with what it needs.

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to customize the dish based on seasonal vegetables or your personal preferences. For instance, adding sun-dried tomatoes or bell peppers can introduce a delightful sweetness and extra color to the dish. If you want to enhance the protein content, consider incorporating grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.

For those who prefer a lighter option, you can substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative such as coconut milk or almond cream. This way, you can cater to dietary preferences while still enjoying the creamy goodness of the sauce. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this dish uniquely yours!

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi

1 lb gnocchi
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Cook the Gnocchi

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

Sauté Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are soft.

Finally, stir in the spinach and cook until wilted.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream, add smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.

Combine

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy this dish with a side of crusty bread!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing this gnocchi dish with a fresh side salad or some crusty garlic bread. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the sauce beautifully, adding a refreshing balance to the meal. Additionally, serving some crusty bread allows you to savor every drop of the delicious sauce!

For a complete meal, you might also think about serving a glass of white wine, such as a crisp Sauvignon Blanc. The wine's acidity can cut through the creaminess of the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your dinner.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers (which is rare because this dish is so delicious!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The gnocchi will keep for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce as necessary.

For freezing, it's best to freeze the gnocchi separately from the sauce to maintain optimal texture. You can freeze the cooked gnocchi for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy, cook the gnocchi directly from frozen in boiling water and combine with the reheated sauce for a quick meal.

Why Homemade Gnocchi is Worth It

While store-bought gnocchi can be a convenient option, making your own can elevate this dish to a whole new level. Homemade gnocchi is often fluffier and more flavorful than its packaged counterpart. Plus, it's a fun activity you can share with family or friends, creating lasting memories in the kitchen.

The process of making gnocchi involves just a few simple ingredients: potatoes, flour, and eggs. Once you master the technique, you can experiment with different flavors, such as adding spinach or herbs to the dough. The satisfaction of serving a plate of freshly made gnocchi will undoubtedly impress your guests!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, frozen gnocchi can be used. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or even kale for extra nutrition and flavor.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

It depends on the type of gnocchi used. Make sure to select gluten-free gnocchi if needed.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat.