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Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta

A rich and comforting dish featuring perfectly cooked pasta wrapped in a creamy sauce with earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 8 oz pasta (your choice, such as fettuccine or penne)
Vegetables
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work well)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
Cream Sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • to taste Salt and pepper

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and tender.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
Cooking the Sauce
  1. Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, mixing it in with the mushrooms. Allow it to simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  3. Fold in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
Final Assembly
  1. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce mixture, ensuring all the pasta is evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  2. Divide among plates and sprinkle with additional Parmesan or crushed red pepper, if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

For a gluten-free option, swap regular pasta for gluten-free varieties like rice or quinoa pasta. Add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.