Mushroom Pasta with Parmesan and Spinach

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mushroom Pasta with Parmesan and Spinach is a true comfort food, offering rich, umami-packed mushrooms and fresh spinach combined with a velvety, cheesy sauce. The Parmesan adds a delightful saltiness, while the spinach provides a pop of color and nutrition. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for those busy evenings when you need a meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. With the addition of creamy sauce and savory mushrooms, this dish is a comforting classic that will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (white button or cremini work well)

• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, reserve 1 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta. Set it aside.

2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Cook the mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and become golden brown.

4. Add the spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for another 2 minutes, until wilted.

5. Make the sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

6. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing gently to coat the pasta in the creamy mushroom sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

7. Add the Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue tossing until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a creamy and cheesy coating. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: For a heartier dish, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon to the pasta for extra protein.

• Use different greens: You can replace the spinach with kale, arugula, or even broccoli for a variation.

• Make it dairy-free: Swap the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use dairy-free Parmesan for a vegan-friendly version.

• Add extra flavor: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the skillet before adding the cream, or toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

• Cheese variations: While Parmesan is the classic choice, you can mix in other cheeses like goat cheese, mozzarella, or Pecorino Romano for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water, broth, or cream to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered dish for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of mushroom?

Yes! You can use any variety of mushrooms, such as cremini, shiitake, or portobello. Each type will bring its own unique flavor to the dish.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw it and drain excess water before adding it to the skillet.

How do I know when the pasta is done?

The pasta should be al dente, meaning it should still have a slight bite to it. Follow the package instructions and taste a piece to ensure it’s not overcooked.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the mushrooms, spinach, and sauce ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge and combine them with the pasta when ready to cook.

Can I make this dish lighter?

To make it lighter, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of Parmesan used. You can also add more veggies to increase the nutritional value without adding extra calories.

What can I serve with Mushroom Pasta with Parmesan and Spinach?

This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots.

Can I freeze this dish?

While creamy pasta dishes don’t freeze as well as others, you can freeze the sauce (without the pasta) for up to 1-2 months. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce and toss with freshly cooked pasta.

How do I prevent the cream from curdling?

To prevent the cream from curdling, cook the sauce over medium heat and avoid bringing it to a boil. Stir constantly and gradually incorporate the cheese to create a smooth sauce.

Conclusion

Mushroom Pasta with Parmesan and Spinach is a flavorful and creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The tender mushrooms, fresh spinach, and creamy Parmesan sauce come together to create a comforting meal that’s both light and satisfying. With minimal ingredients and just one pan, this dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a quick, weeknight dinner. Whether you serve it as a main course or alongside your favorite protein, this Mushroom Pasta will quickly become a family favorite.