Creamy Dreamy Gnocchi with Garlic Butter Mushrooms
Imagine sinking your teeth into soft, pillowy gnocchi, each piece coated in a velvety, thyme-scented cream sauce. Now, picture that sauce brimming with tender, garlic-infused mushrooms that have been browned to perfection in butter. This isn't just a meal; it's a comforting experience that feels both simple and elegant. I've been making this dish for years and it has never failed to impress.
This recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. It's the kind of meal that can be thrown together on a busy weeknight but also feels special enough to serve to guests.
Why You'll Fall in Love with This Gnocchi
- Comforting: It's the ultimate cozy dish that warms you from the inside out.
- Flavorful: The combination of garlic, butter, thyme, and mushrooms is simply irresistible.
- Easy to make: It's a simple recipe that can be on the table in under 40 minutes.
- Versatile: It can be easily dressed up or down.
- Crowd-pleasing: It's always a hit with everyone, from family to friends.
How to Make This Delicious Gnocchi
Step 1: Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic
Start by melting butter in a pan over medium heat. Add your sliced mushrooms and sauté until they're golden brown and have released their moisture. Then, toss in the garlic and cook for a couple of minutes until fragrant. The smell alone will make you want to dive in.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and fresh thyme. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. To thicken the sauce, I add a cornstarch slurry. This ensures it clings beautifully to the gnocchi.
Step 3: Add the Gnocchi
Cook your gnocchi according to package directions, then add it to the creamy mushroom sauce. Toss it all together so that every piece of gnocchi is coated in the decadent sauce. Stir in a generous amount of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and richness.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately, topped with more Parmesan cheese, fresh thyme leaves, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. It's the perfect meal to enjoy on a cozy evening.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
- Pair it with your favorite crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the sauce.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Variations and Substitutions
- Use different types of mushrooms for a unique flavor profile, such as cremini, shiitake, or oyster.
- Substitute spinach or other greens for mushrooms to change it up.
- Use a dairy-free cream alternative for a vegan version of the dish.
- Add a splash of white wine to the mushroom mixture while sautéing for added depth of flavor.
Ready to Make Magic?
This Creamy Mushroom Gnocchi is more than just a meal; it's a hug in a bowl. It's the kind of dish that leaves you feeling satisfied, comforted, and happy. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 16 ounces of white button or baby bella mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth (+1/4 cup as needed)
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 3 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in 1 tablespoon of cold water
- 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese
- Two 16-ounce packages of gnocchi
Instructions:
- Melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms; sauté until golden. Add salt, cook until the moisture evaporates. Add garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add broth, cream, and thyme. Simmer for 5-10 minutes. Add cornstarch slurry to thicken.
- Remove thyme sprigs; add Parmesan and stir. Add your cooked gnocchi and gently stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper and broth as needed to keep the sauce silky.
- Scoop into bowls, top with Parm, salt, pepper, and thyme and enjoy!