Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a quick yet indulgent meal that feels gourmet but requires minimal effort. The tender gnocchi soaks up the rich, cheesy sauce, while the sautéed mushrooms add an earthy depth of flavor. It’s ideal for anyone looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the ingredients are simple and accessible, making it a practical choice for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend treat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 (16 ounce) package potato gnocchi
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
8 ounces fresh baby bella mushrooms, sliced
2 teaspoons minced garlic
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup low sodium chicken broth
3 tablespoons heavy cream
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

Cook gnocchi according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Sauté until tender, about 5-6 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove mushrooms to a plate and set aside.
In the same skillet, whisk together chicken broth, heavy cream, and flour until smooth.
Simmer on low heat for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add cooked gnocchi to the sauce and stir to combine.
Stir in Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated. Remove skillet from heat.
Return the sautéed mushrooms to the skillet and mix well. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
Add fresh spinach or kale to the sauce for a boost of greens.
Swap baby bella mushrooms for cremini or shiitake for different flavor profiles.
Use vegan butter and dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives to make it vegan-friendly.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving directly to prevent the gnocchi from becoming rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works well. Just cook according to package instructions before adding to the sauce.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese are great substitutes. For a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Parmesan cream sauce up to one day in advance. Reheat gently before adding the gnocchi and mushrooms.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Traditional gnocchi contains gluten, as does all-purpose flour. Use gluten-free gnocchi and a gluten-free flour blend to adapt this recipe.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, by substituting butter with vegan butter, using vegetable broth, and choosing dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives.

How do I know when the gnocchi is cooked?

Gnocchi usually float to the surface when they are fully cooked. Follow package instructions for the best results.

What kind of mushrooms work best?

Baby bella mushrooms are recommended for their rich flavor, but cremini or shiitake mushrooms also work beautifully.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu can be added to make it more filling.

How thick should the sauce be?

The sauce should be creamy and slightly thickened so it coats the gnocchi evenly without being too heavy.

Can I freeze leftovers?

While gnocchi can be frozen, the sauce texture may change upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy leftovers fresh or refrigerated.

Conclusion

Mushroom Gnocchi with Parmesan Cream Sauce is a deliciously comforting dish that feels luxurious but comes together quickly with simple ingredients. Whether for a special occasion or a casual dinner, this recipe offers rich flavors and a satisfying texture that will make it a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy the creamy sauce, tender gnocchi, and earthy mushrooms all in one elegant plate.