Spinach Mushroom Pasta Recipe

This creamy spinach mushroom pasta is a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. With tender pasta coated in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce, sautéed mushrooms, and fresh spinach, this dish offers a comforting yet wholesome bite. Whether you’re looking for a meatless dinner or a simple side dish, this recipe is sure to impress!

What Is Spinach Mushroom Pasta?

Spinach mushroom pasta is a creamy and flavorful pasta dish made with sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. It’s a satisfying meal that balances earthy mushrooms, vibrant greens, and rich, cheesy flavors. This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for a quick and easy dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
  • Rich & Creamy – The Parmesan cream sauce makes this pasta extra indulgent.
  • Vegetarian-Friendly – A great meatless meal packed with flavor.
  • Customizable – Easily add protein like chicken or shrimp for extra heartiness.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion – Works as a comforting weeknight meal or a side dish for gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz (340 g) pasta (fettuccine or penne)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups (120 g) fresh spinach
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

2. Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic

  1. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

  1. Add fresh spinach to the pan and cook until wilted.
  2. Pour in heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese.
  3. Add red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
  4. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Combine with Pasta

  1. Add the cooked pasta to the pan, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce.
  2. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a little reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

5. Serve and Enjoy

  • Serve warm with extra Parmesan cheese on top.
  • Pair with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

  • With Protein – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for extra flavor.
  • With Bread – Serve with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • As a Side Dish – Pair with a grilled steak, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

Freezing Instructions

  • Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well, as they can separate. However, you can freeze the pasta without the sauce and prepare the sauce fresh when serving.

Recipe Variations

  • Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free pasta.
  • Vegan Alternative – Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
  • Spicier Version – Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Lemon Twist – Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta for a bright, tangy flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! This recipe works well with spaghetti, linguine, or short pasta like rigatoni or farfalle.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half-and-half, whole milk, or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream can be used instead, though the sauce may be less rich.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but for the best texture, cook the pasta fresh and prepare the sauce just before serving.

This creamy spinach mushroom pasta is a simple yet elegant dish that’s packed with flavor. It’s perfect for a quick dinner, a cozy weekend meal, or even a special occasion. Give it a try and let us know how you customize it to make it your own!

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Spinach Mushroom Pasta

Spinach Mushroom Pasta Recipe


  • Author: Julia Childley
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This creamy spinach mushroom pasta is a rich and flavorful dish made with tender pasta, sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. It’s a quick and easy meal that comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting vegetarian dinner.


Ingredients


  • 12 oz (340 g) pasta (fettuccine or penne)


  • 2 tbsp olive oil


  • 8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced


  • 3 cloves garlic, minced


  • 4 cups (120 g) fresh spinach


  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream


  • ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese


  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)



  • Salt & pepper to taste



Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

  2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

  3. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

2. Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic

  1. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.

  2. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.

  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

  1. Add fresh spinach to the pan and cook until wilted.

  2. Pour in heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese.

  3. Add red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.

  4. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Combine with Pasta

  1. Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce.

  2. If needed, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

  3. Taste and adjust seasoning.

5. Serve

 

  • Serve warm with extra Parmesan cheese on top.

  • Enjoy with garlic bread or a side salad.

Notes

  • Pasta Choice: This recipe works well with fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti.

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

  • Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or cream.

  • Vegan Option: Use plant-based cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

 

  • Spice Level: Adjust red pepper flakes for more or less heat.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: Approx. 500 kcal
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