If you’re looking for a soul-satisfying, comfort-food hug on a plate, this Gnocchi with Creamy Mushroom Sauce Recipe is absolutely the answer. Tender mini gnocchi pillows bathed in a luscious, velvety mushroom sauce with garlic, fresh thyme, and Parmesan create a flavor combination that feels indulgent yet effortlessly cozy. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing friends, this dish brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels special and feels like a warm welcome every time you take a bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might look straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in building the rich texture and deep flavor that make this dish unforgettable. From the creamy butter-infused mushrooms to the subtle herbaceous lift of thyme, every element enhances the sauce and complements the soft gnocchi beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons butter: The base for sautéing mushrooms, adds rich, silky mouthfeel.
- 16 ounces white button or baby bella mushrooms, sliced: Provide earthiness and texture, the hero of the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Helps draw out moisture from mushrooms, intensifying their flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced: Adds aromatic warmth and depth.
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth: Brings savory richness and balances creaminess.
- 3/4 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, velvety sauce.
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme: Infuses the sauce with a subtle herbal brightness.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in 1 tablespoon cold water: A simple thickener for a perfectly silky sauce.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty umami and a cheesy finish.
- Two 16-ounce packages gnocchi: The pillowy pasta base; I love the mini-size gnocchi for the best sauce-to-bite ratio.
How to Make Gnocchi with Creamy Mushroom Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Mushrooms and Garlic
Start by melting the butter over medium heat to create the perfect sauté base. Add your sliced mushrooms and cook them until they turn golden brown—a gorgeous color that also means the flavor is getting concentrated. Then sprinkle on the salt to draw out any extra moisture, helping the mushrooms dry out and intensify their taste. Finally, toss in the garlic slices and let their fragrant aroma build over about 2 to 3 minutes. This step sets the flavor foundation for your sauce and makes your kitchen smell absolutely amazing.
Step 2: Make Your Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then add the sprigs of fresh thyme for a delicate herbaceous note. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken and marry the flavors over 5 to 10 minutes. When it’s about right, add the cornstarch slurry to give the sauce that perfect silky consistency. While this simmers, it’s the perfect time to cook your gnocchi so everything comes together seamlessly.
Step 3: Add Your Gnocchi
Once the sauce has thickened beautifully, fish out the thyme sprigs and stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly, adding a lovely nutty richness. Gently fold in your cooked gnocchi, making sure each tender pillow is coated in the creamy mushroom sauce. Taste, then season with salt and pepper to your liking. If needed, add a splash more broth to keep the sauce luxuriously silky and smooth.
How to Serve Gnocchi with Creamy Mushroom Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To make this dish even more irresistible, sprinkle extra freshly grated Parmesan over the top just before serving. A few twists of freshly cracked black pepper add a gentle spice contrast, and if you have fresh thyme or parsley on hand, tossing some leaves over the dish brings a bright freshness that lifts every bite.
Side Dishes
This gnocchi pairs wonderfully with simple, fresh sides that don’t compete but complement the dish’s comforting richness. Think crisp green salads with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts to balance the creamy sauce with some texture and brightness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try plating the gnocchi in shallow bowls and drizzle a little truffle oil or a balsamic reduction around the edge for a gourmet touch. You can also serve this recipe in individual mini cast iron skillets for a rustic, charming presentation that keeps the sauce hot and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Gnocchi with Creamy Mushroom Sauce Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more as they rest, making leftovers just as delicious, if not better than fresh.
Freezing
While gnocchi can be frozen, it’s best to freeze this dish before adding the cream sauce to maintain texture. Freeze cooked gnocchi and the mushroom sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
When reheating leftovers, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir frequently to keep the sauce creamy and prevent the gnocchi from sticking or becoming gummy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of mushrooms?
Absolutely! While white button and baby bella mushrooms are classic, you can experiment with cremini, shiitake, or even a wild mushroom mix to add unique flavor profiles to your sauce.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! Simply swap out the chicken broth for a rich vegetable broth, and you’ll have a completely vegetarian-friendly version that’s just as creamy and delicious.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
You can prepare the mushroom sauce a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked gnocchi to ensure the best texture.
What type of gnocchi works best?
Mini-size gnocchi tend to hold the sauce more effectively and provide pleasant bite-size portions. However, standard-sized gnocchi work well too—just watch your cooking time as larger gnocchi may need a little extra.
How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
If your sauce thickens too much while cooking or after standing, simply add a splash of chicken broth or cream and stir gently to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
There really is something magical about a bowl of gnocchi slathered in a creamy mushroom sauce that feels like a celebration of simple ingredients done right. This Gnocchi with Creamy Mushroom Sauce Recipe is a go-to for cozy dinners when you want something fuss-free but far from ordinary. Trust me—once you try it, this will quickly become one of your favorite dishes to make and share. So grab your skillet, gather those mushrooms, and let’s get cooking!
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Gnocchi with Creamy Mushroom Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This comforting Gnocchi with Creamy Mushroom Sauce recipe features tender gnocchi enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce made from sautéed mushrooms, garlic, fresh thyme, chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 35 minutes, this dish offers a perfect blend of earthy and creamy flavors that makes for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Sauce and Mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 16 ounces white button or baby bella mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth + additional 1/4 cup as needed
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in 1 tablespoon cold water
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
Gnocchi
- Two 16-ounce packages gnocchi, prepared according to package directions (mini-size recommended)
Instructions
- Cook the mushrooms and garlic: Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they turn golden brown. Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon salt to draw out moisture and continue cooking until much of the liquid evaporates. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Make your sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and add the fresh thyme sprigs. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5-10 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Thicken the sauce: Stir in the cornstarch slurry gradually to thicken the sauce. This step is an ideal time to boil your gnocchi if you haven’t already prepared it per package instructions.
- Add gnocchi and finish sauce: Remove the thyme sprigs from the sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the cooked gnocchi to the sauce and gently combine. Adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add additional chicken broth if needed to maintain a silky, creamy texture.
- Serve: Scoop the hot, creamy gnocchi into bowls. Optionally top with extra Parmesan cheese, a pinch of salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors.
Notes
- Using mini gnocchi enhances sauce coverage and texture.
- Fresh thyme sprigs impart the best aroma, but thyme leaves can be used if sprigs are unavailable.
- Be careful not to overcook gnocchi to avoid mushiness; they are done once they float to the surface after boiling.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
