Name: Creamy Spinach Gnocchi (20 Minute, One-Pan Meal)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 8 oz spinach; salt; pepper; 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 (or more); ¼ teaspoon salt (to taste); coarsely ground black pepper (to taste); red pepper flakes (to taste)

Introduction to Creamy Spinach Gnocchi

If you’re a busy professional balancing work, social life, and meals, Creamy Spinach Gnocchi is about to become your new go-to dish! This 20-minute, one-pan meal is perfect for those evenings when you just don’t have time to spend hours in the kitchen.

Imagine coming home after a long day and having a delicious, comforting meal ready in a flash. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; using shelf-stable potato gnocchi and fresh spinach, you can create a creamy sauce that’s both satisfying and rich in flavor. Plus, the combination of garlic, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning elevates this meal beyond mere convenience.

For those who might not be familiar, potato gnocchi are like little pillows of goodness—they're filling and perfectly absorb the creamy sauce. You’ll be whipping this up in no time and enjoying a delightful plate that feels indulgent without the fuss.

The versatility of this dish means it can stand alone as a meatless main course, or pair beautifully with grilled chicken or turkey bacon. No matter how you serve it, you're in for a treat.

Discover more about gnocchi and get cooking with this quick recipe!

Ingredients for Creamy Spinach Gnocchi

Essential ingredients for a delicious dish

The foundation of your Creamy Spinach Gnocchi lies in a few key ingredients that come together to create a vibrant and comforting meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

8 oz fresh spinach: This leafy green not only provides nutrients but also adds a lovely color to your dish.
16 oz potato gnocchi: Store-bought gnocchi saves time and makes this meal super convenient.
½ cup chicken broth: It adds depth to the sauce. Feel free to use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
1 cup heavy cream: This is what gives your dish its rich, creamy texture.
4 cloves minced garlic: Garlic elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
Spices: Don’t forget Italian seasoning and smoked paprika for that extra warmth!

Optional ingredients for an extra kick

Want to take your Creamy Spinach Gnocchi to the next level? Add some of these optional ingredients for an extra burst of flavor:

Red pepper flakes for a hint of heat—perfect if you enjoy a bit of spice in your meals.
Coarsely ground black pepper adds a lovely zing.
For an herbaceous twist, you can garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

These additions can really elevate your dish and make it even more delightful. Are you ready to dig in?

Step-by-step preparation of Creamy Spinach Gnocchi

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that combines ease and flavor, then this step-by-step guide for Creamy Spinach Gnocchi is just what you need! With just a few ingredients and a one-pan method, you are on your way to a restaurant-quality meal that’s ready in only 20 minutes. Let’s dive right in!

Cook the spinach

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, high-sided skillet over medium heat. Add 8 ounces of fresh spinach, seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and vibrant. It’s always amazing to see how a seemingly large pile of spinach shrinks down to a small serving! Once cooked, transfer the spinach to a plate and set aside. This step not only adds essential vitamins but also infuses a lovely earthy flavor into your dish.

Prepare the creamy sauce

In the same skillet (you love not needing to do extra dishes, right?), add 16 ounces of potato gnocchi along with ½ cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream. Toss in 4 minced garlic cloves for that aromatic goodness, along with ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cover the skillet with a lid and let everything simmer for about 5 minutes. This will cook the gnocchi while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Cook the gnocchi

After your gnocchi has cooked for 5 minutes, it’s time to bring back that delicious spinach. Stir in the wilted spinach and let everything combine for an additional couple of minutes over medium heat. If you prefer a thicker sauce, feel free to let it cook longer, but be careful not to overcook the gnocchi. It’s such a quick meal, so keep an eye on it!

Combine everything

Once your sauce reaches your desired consistency, give it a good stir to ensure everything is well-combined. At this point, the Creamy Spinach Gnocchi should look rich and inviting—who wouldn’t want to dig into that?

Taste for seasoning

Before serving, always taste your dish! This is your opportunity to adjust flavors. Add more salt, freshly ground black pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for that extra kick if desired. Remember, the goal is to create a comforting, flavorful meal that suits your palate perfectly.

There you have it, a straightforward and satisfying route to Creamy Spinach Gnocchi. Ready to impress at dinner? Let’s make it happen! For more delicious meal ideas, check out this resource for more inspiration!

Variations on Creamy Spinach Gnocchi

Add Protein: Chicken or Turkey Bacon

Looking to elevate your Creamy Spinach Gnocchi? Adding protein is a fantastic way to boost the dish's heartiness. Consider incorporating tender chicken or even crispy turkey bacon. Simply cook the protein in the skillet before adding the garlic and gnocchi; this will enrich the flavors while making the meal even more satisfying.

Make It Vegan: Substitute Cream and Gnocchi

If you’re following a plant-based diet, don’t fret! You can easily transform this dish into a vegan delight. Swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream, and look for vegan gnocchi. This way, you can still enjoy a creamy, comforting meal full of flavor. For extra inspiration, check out forks over knives for more plant-based tips and recipes.

Cooking tips and notes for Creamy Spinach Gnocchi

Keep it creamy without curdling

To achieve that perfect, silky creaminess in your Creamy Spinach Gnocchi, gently heat your cream and avoid boiling it too fiercely. A sudden increase in temperature can separate the cream, leaving you with a less appealing texture. Stir consistently while cooking to help maintain that rich, creamy consistency you crave.

Tips for using frozen spinach

If you're using frozen spinach, simply thaw it ahead of time and squeeze out excess moisture. This step ensures your sauce doesn’t become watery, allowing the flavors to shine. Opt for high-quality frozen spinach like Birds Eye or Green Giant for the best taste and nutrition. Just remember to adjust your seasoning to account for any salt added during processing!

Serving suggestions for Creamy Spinach Gnocchi

Pairing with proteins: chicken or beef

For an elevated meal, consider pairing your Creamy Spinach Gnocchi with grilled chicken or seared beef. The savory richness of the gnocchi complements the textures and flavors of these proteins beautifully. Simply season and cook your chicken or beef to your liking, and place the gnocchi alongside or beneath the protein for a complete plate. For a zesty twist, a squeeze of lemon over the top can brighten the dish!

Serving as a standalone dish

If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying meal, enjoy the Creamy Spinach Gnocchi on its own! The creamy sauce and spinach provide a fulfilling experience, making it perfect for meatless Mondays or late-night dinners. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added depth. This dish is not only delicious but also wonderfully adaptable; it can easily be enhanced with sautéed mushrooms or roasted cherry tomatoes.

For more delightful ideas, check out food pairing tips or ingredient substitutions at Serious Eats.

Time breakdown for Creamy Spinach Gnocchi

Preparation time

Getting everything ready for Creamy Spinach Gnocchi is quick and easy. You’ll need about 5 minutes to chop the garlic and measure out your ingredients.

Cooking time

Once you start cooking, the entire process takes around 15 minutes. This includes wilting the spinach and letting the gnocchi absorb that creamy goodness.

Total time

In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Isn’t that great? Now, let’s get cooking!

For a step-by-step guide, check out this resource that dives into the cooking process!

Nutritional Facts for Creamy Spinach Gnocchi

When diving into the delicious world of Creamy Spinach Gnocchi, understanding its nutritional profile can help you enjoy it even more guilt-free! Here’s a quick breakdown:

Calories

Each serving of this creamy delight packs about 445 calories. It’s an indulgent but balanced option perfect for a satisfying dinner!

Protein

With 9 grams of protein per serving, this meal offers a nice boost, thanks to the combination of gnocchi and spinach. It’s a great way to fuel your evening!

Sodium

Keep an eye on sodium content, as this dish contains around 686 mg per serving. If you're watching your salt intake, consider using low-sodium chicken broth for a healthier twist.

Curious about how to make your own gnocchi? Check out this homemade gnocchi recipe for a fun, hands-on cooking experience! Enjoying Creamy Spinach Gnocchi with a vibrant side salad can elevate your meal while adding freshness and flavor. Happy cooking!

FAQ about Creamy Spinach Gnocchi

Can I use fresh gnocchi?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for shelf-stable potato gnocchi for convenience, you can use fresh gnocchi if you prefer. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as fresh gnocchi typically cooks faster. You'll want to adjust the simmering time accordingly to ensure it stays tender and doesn’t become mushy.

How can I make it lighter?

If you're looking to lighten up your Creamy Spinach Gnocchi, consider substituting heavy cream with a low-fat alternative, such as cashew cream or milk mixed with cornstarch for thickness. Additionally, using less oil or opting for a non-stick spray can help cut down on calories while still providing great flavor.

What can I serve with this dish?

This delicious pasta is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside a fresh arugula salad, roasted vegetables, or grilled chicken for added protein. You can also enjoy it with some light garlic bread to soak up any extra creamy sauce. If you're interested in more sides, check out this resource on complementary dishes.

Conclusion on Creamy Spinach Gnocchi

In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a delicious batch of Creamy Spinach Gnocchi that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner. This easy, one-pan meal not only satisfies your cravings but also provides a comforting, meatless option for busy professionals. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!