Description
There’s nothing like a bowl of Creamy Spinach Mushroom Pasta to satisfy your comfort food cravings! Packed with tender mushrooms, vibrant spinach, and a luscious cream sauce, this dish is hearty yet light enough for any day of the week. Plus, it’s easy to make in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne): Choose your favorite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness to the sauce.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: For a flavor boost.
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced: White button or cremini work best.
- 3 cups fresh spinach: Or use frozen spinach (thawed and well-drained).
- 1 cup heavy cream: For a luxurious sauce.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty goodness.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning: For depth of flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: To season.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the mushrooms and sauté until golden and tender, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Add Spinach and Pasta
- Toss in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: It’ll soak up the sauce better without getting mushy.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Grating your own cheese makes a big flavor difference.
- Don’t Overcook the Sauce: Cream can curdle if overheated, so keep the heat low.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American