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
