Gnocchi with Creamy Mushroom Sauce Recipe
If you’re looking for a recipe that delivers pure comfort with a dash of sophistication, Gnocchi with Creamy Mushroom Sauce will quickly become your go-to favorite. Pillowy potato gnocchi swim in a dreamy, velvety sauce packed with sautéed mushrooms, a hint of white wine, and a good sprinkle of Parmesan. It’s a soul-warming dish that feels fancy enough for guests but is secretly simple enough to whip up on a weeknight. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner for two or a crowd-pleasing meal for the whole family, this creamy, savory classic never disappoints.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Gnocchi with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is all about humble staples combining for unbeatable flavor. Each ingredient plays an essential role, building layer upon layer of taste, aroma, and that irresistible creamy texture we can’t get enough of.
- Potato Gnocchi: Light, pillowy gnocchi are the star of the show and serve as a canvas for the creamy sauce.
- Butter: Adds richness and kickstarts the base for the sauce, ensuring every bite is luscious.
- Olive Oil: Gives a subtle earthy note and helps prevent the butter from burning.
- Shallot: Brings gentle sweetness and depth; its delicate flavor is key to a balanced sauce.
- Garlic: Two cloves for that classic, comforting aroma and a hint of pungency.
- Cremini or Button Mushrooms: Earthy, meaty, and full of umami, these create the sauce’s backbone; mix types for extra dimension.
- Dried Thyme: Infuses herbal notes that complement both mushrooms and cream perfectly.
- Dry White Wine or Vegetable Broth: Wine brightens the sauce and lifts the flavors, but broth works for an alcohol-free option.
- Heavy Cream: The key to the sauce’s silky, indulgent texture; feel free to sub with half-and-half if you prefer it lighter.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty, nutty oomph—freshly grated melts best into the sauce.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to heighten all the flavors; don’t be shy with the pepper.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley: An optional garnish that brings freshness and a pop of vibrant green right at the end.
How to Make Gnocchi with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi
Start by boiling water and cooking your potato gnocchi according to the package instructions. It only takes a few minutes until they float to the top—signaling they’re ready. Drain them gently and set aside; they’ll finish their journey in that irresistibly creamy sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, combine the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once melted and shimmery, toss in minced shallot and garlic. Sauté for about 1–2 minutes, stirring often—your kitchen will smell amazing, and these aromatics form the foundation of Gnocchi with Creamy Mushroom Sauce.
Step 3: Brown the Mushrooms
Add your sliced mushrooms and dried thyme to the skillet. Let the mushrooms sizzle for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is for them to turn golden and let go of their moisture, intensifying their flavor and giving the sauce depth.
Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer
Pour in the dry white wine or vegetable broth, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the pan. These are packed with flavor! Let everything simmer for about 2 minutes, so the liquid reduces slightly and the aroma mellows out beautifully.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Turn the heat down low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan. Stir gently as the sauce thickens—it only needs 2 to 3 minutes to reach that perfect, velvety consistency. Season to taste with salt and plenty of fresh black pepper.
Step 6: Toss and Serve
Add the cooked gnocchi right into the skillet, carefully tossing to coat every dumpling in the luscious mushroom sauce. Warm everything through for a minute, then serve while piping hot, topped off with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for that final touch.
How to Serve Gnocchi with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Garnishes
A little flourish goes a long way with this dish. I love scattering a handful of chopped fresh parsley on top for color and brightness, and sometimes a fresh grind of black pepper or a generous grating of extra Parmesan. If you want something different, finely chopped chives or a tiny drizzle of white truffle oil add a fancy, aromatic edge!
Side Dishes
Gnocchi with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is hearty on its own but pairs perfectly with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. Warm, crusty bread is also wonderful for mopping up every bit of that creamy goodness. For a more substantial meal, try roasted asparagus, garlicky green beans, or steamed broccolini alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to dress things up, serve your gnocchi in individual mini-skillets or wide pasta bowls for a restaurant-style feel. For parties, portion it into small ramekins as an appetizer. A sprinkle of microgreens or a swirl of basil oil adds instant drama and beautiful color contrast to the creamy canvas.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Gnocchi with Creamy Mushroom Sauce saves beautifully for lunch the next day. Simply transfer any cooled leftovers to an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator. The flavors continue to meld, making every bite even more magnificent the second time around.
Freezing
While the creamy sauce can change texture after freezing, you can freeze leftovers in a pinch. Let the gnocchi cool, then place in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best results.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the gnocchi and sauce in a skillet on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s silky texture. Stir frequently and heat just until warmed through so the gnocchi stay soft and tender. You can also microwave in short bursts, but the skillet method keeps everything at its best.
FAQs
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Swap out the butter for a vegan alternative, use plant-based cream and Parmesan, and double-check your gnocchi for dairy or eggs. The mushrooms bring so much umami you won’t miss the traditional dairy at all.
What kind of mushrooms work best for Gnocchi with Creamy Mushroom Sauce?
Cremini or button mushrooms are classic, but feel free to use a mix, including wild, shiitake, or even portobello for deeper flavor and texture. Each variety adds its own earthy nuance to the sauce.
Can I use homemade gnocchi?
Yes, and the extra effort absolutely pays off with tender, melt-in-your-mouth dumplings! If you have a favorite family recipe or want to try your hand at homemade gnocchi, go for it—the sauce is even more spectacular with made-from-scratch gnocchi.
Is it possible to add protein?
You can! Sautéed chicken, pancetta, or even crispy tofu cubes blend right in. Stir them in during the last step before tossing with the sauce for a seriously satisfying meal.
What wine pairs well with Gnocchi with Creamy Mushroom Sauce?
A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, is lovely alongside the creamy, earthy elements of this dish. If you prefer red, try a light-bodied Pinot Noir for great balance.
Final Thoughts
There’s something utterly irresistible and comforting about a bowl of Gnocchi with Creamy Mushroom Sauce—the kind of meal that makes any night feel special. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe out and share it with someone you love. Tuck in, savor every bite, and let this creamy, satisfying classic warm your heart and table!
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Gnocchi with Creamy Mushroom Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a comforting and creamy Italian dish with this Gnocchi with Creamy Mushroom Sauce recipe. Perfectly cooked potato gnocchi coated in a rich and flavorful sauce made with mushrooms, cream, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Gnocchi:
- 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi
Creamy Mushroom Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small shallot (minced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms (sliced)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or vegetable broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Gnocchi: Cook gnocchi according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil. Add shallot and garlic, sauté until fragrant. Add mushrooms, thyme, cook until golden. Deglaze with wine or broth, simmer.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Lower heat, add cream and Parmesan, cook until slightly thickened. Add gnocchi, toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- For added depth, use a mix of wild mushrooms.
- You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce or add spinach for extra veggies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
