This Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta is the ultimate comfort food! A rich, creamy sauce made with Parmesan cheese, sautéed mushrooms, and fresh spinach is tossed with your favorite pasta for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this pasta recipe is quick, easy, and packed with delicious ingredients.
Ingredients for Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta
To make this delicious pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Pasta:
- 300g (about 10oz) of your favorite pasta (penne, spaghetti, fettuccine, etc.)
- Salt (for seasoning the pasta water)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 200g (7oz) fresh mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button mushrooms work well)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk (use whole milk for a richer flavor)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach (washed and chopped)
Optional Garnishes:
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped parsley
- Red pepper flakes (for some heat)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Once it’s cooked al dente, drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use. Set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic
In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and the oil is hot, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté the mushrooms for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft and golden brown. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Once the garlic is aromatic, reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream and milk. Stir to combine, then add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Add Spinach
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts and softens.
Step 5: Toss the Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. Cook for another minute or two to heat everything through. If the sauce needs thinning, add more reserved pasta water until you reach the perfect consistency.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired for a bit of heat. This creamy, comforting pasta is sure to satisfy your taste buds!
Tips for the Perfect Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta
- Customize the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the amount of milk or add more Parmesan cheese for extra creaminess.
- Make It Lighter: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or opt for a non-dairy milk alternative like almond or oat milk.
- Add Protein: You can easily add grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon to this dish for extra protein.
- Add More Veggies: Consider adding other vegetables like sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini to the sauce for added flavor and texture.
How to Store and Reheat
- Storing: This creamy Parmesan spinach mushroom pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm the pasta on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or pasta water to help restore the creamy consistency.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta
This Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta is a comforting, rich, and flavorful dish that combines the earthiness of mushrooms, the creaminess of Parmesan cheese, and the freshness of spinach. It’s perfect for anyone who loves creamy pasta dishes but wants to keep it fresh with added veggies. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta is sure to impress!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the pasta and prepare the creamy sauce a day ahead. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the pasta and sauce together and stir in the spinach before serving.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes! If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach. Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the sauce.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or a non-dairy milk such as coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free option.
Conclusion
This Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that’s both rich and satisfying. With its creamy Parmesan sauce, tender mushrooms, and fresh spinach, this pasta recipe is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or special occasions. Give it a try, and enjoy a flavorful, comforting meal that everyone will love!
