Gnocchi with creamy mushroom sauce is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together pillowy soft potato dumplings with a rich, velvety sauce. This recipe combines the delicate texture of gnocchi with earthy mushrooms, garlic, and herbs, all simmered in a luxurious cream sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home or for impressing guests with its restaurant-quality taste. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious gnocchi dish step by step.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 10 ounces (280g) mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1/4 cup (60ml) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi
- Boil Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions or until they float to the surface, usually about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Mushroom Sauce
- Sauté Shallots and Garlic: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallot and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Cook Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet, stirring occasionally, and cook for 5-6 minutes until they release their juices and start to brown. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Broth and Cream: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pan and scrape up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced. Then, pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5-6 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined with the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 3: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce
- Combine Gnocchi: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the creamy mushroom sauce. Gently toss the gnocchi in the sauce until they are evenly coated.
Step 4: Serve
- Plate and Garnish: Transfer the gnocchi with creamy mushroom sauce to serving plates or a large serving dish. Sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for garnish.
- Serve Hot: Serve immediately while hot, accompanied by a side salad or crusty bread, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Mushroom Variety: Use a mix of different mushrooms for depth of flavor. Cremini, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms work well together, but you can also use your favorite varieties.
- Creamy Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a few more minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Fresh Gnocchi: If using fresh homemade gnocchi, cook them according to the recipe’s instructions before adding to the creamy mushroom sauce.
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
Conclusion
Gnocchi with creamy mushroom sauce is a delightful Italian-inspired dish that combines the tender texture of potato gnocchi with the rich flavors of mushrooms and cream. This recipe is versatile enough for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion meal. Enjoy the creamy goodness of the sauce paired with the soft gnocchi for a satisfying and comforting dining experience.