Mushroom Spinach Pasta

This creamy mushroom spinach pasta is my favorite quick dinner when I want something cozy but not complicated. It uses simple ingredients that are easy to keep on hand and comes together in about 25 minutes making it perfect for busy weeknights.

I tossed this together after a hectic day and discovered how satisfying a simple skillet meal can be without much fuss.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces short pasta: such as penne or rigatoni cooks evenly and holds sauce well
• 3 tablespoons olive oil: provides a subtle richness and helps brown mushrooms nicely use extra virgin for the best flavor
• 12 ounces mushrooms: sliced white button cremini or baby bellas each adds a different depth so pick fresh firm mushrooms without spots
• 4 garlic cloves: minced give a fragrant punch that blends beautifully with the creamy sauce
• 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken stock: deglazes the pan and adds savory moisture choose low sodium for more control
• 12 ounces fresh spinach: adds bright color and a gentle earthy note pick fresh spinach with crisp leaves
• 1/4 cup heavy cream or half and half: lends creaminess without overpowering choose half and half for a lighter version
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: adds subtle herbal complexity blend your own or buy a quality mix
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese: grated introduces a salty nutty depth freshly grated if possible
• Ground black pepper to taste: brings balanced heat and aroma
• Red chili pepper flakes optional: for a little heat boost use sparingly to complement flavors

Instructions

Build The Pasta:

Cook the pasta in plenty of salted boiling water according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain reserving about half a cup of the pasta cooking water to adjust sauce consistency later. This step ensures perfect texture and helps bind the sauce.

Cook The Mushrooms:

Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and stir frequently cooking for 4 to 5 minutes until edges begin to brown. This browning step releases deep flavors essential for the dish. Transfer the mushrooms to a plate and keep warm to add back later.

Garlic And Deglaze:

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about one minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen all browned bits. Lower heat to medium-low and let simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes. This deglazing creates a rich flavor base for the sauce.

Wilt The Spinach And Combine:

Add the spinach stirring frequently to wilt it fully bringing leaves from the bottom of the pan to the top for even cooking. Return the mushrooms to the skillet then stir in the cream and Italian seasoning. Let this simmer for about 2 minutes to marry the flavors.

Finish The Dish:

Add the drained pasta to the skillet tossing gently to combine with the sauce adding Parmesan cheese black pepper and red chili flakes if using. Toss again adding reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if the mixture feels dry. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Parmesan cheese is the star here in my kitchen it brings everything together into a creamy indulgence and reminds me of cozy dinners with my family gathered around the table sharing food and stories.

Storage tips

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats well in a skillet over low heat adding a splash of stock or water to refresh the sauce. Avoid microwaving to keep the sauce from separating.

Ingredient swaps

Try shiitake or oyster mushrooms for deeper umami flavor if you want a meatier texture use chickpeas instead of spinach for protein boost. Swap heavy cream with coconut milk in a pinch for a dairy free twist especially when paired with nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.

Serving ideas

Serve with a crisp green salad and crusty bread to soak up extra sauce. Add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors. A glass of chilled white wine pairs beautifully if you want to elevate the meal.

This pasta brings comfort and ease to any dinner table perfect for busy nights or relaxing weekends alike.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What type of mushrooms work best?

White button, cremini, or baby bella mushrooms are ideal as they offer a mild, earthy flavor that complements the creamy sauce.

→ Can I substitute the cream with a lighter option?

Yes, half and half or a plant-based alternative can be used to keep the dish creamy without heaviness.

→ How do you prevent the spinach from overcooking?

Stir the spinach just until wilted and still bright green, typically 2-3 minutes on medium-low heat.

→ Why is pasta water reserved during cooking?

Reserved pasta water contains starch that helps loosen the sauce and allows it to coat the pasta smoothly.

→ What adds the subtle heat in this dish?

Red chili pepper flakes can be added according to taste for a gentle spice contrast to the creamy base.