A rich and creamy pasta loaded with spinach, mushrooms, and parmesan, perfect for a comforting dinner!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining the richness of heavy cream and parmesan with the earthy flavor of mushrooms and the freshness of spinach. This quick and easy recipe is packed with flavor and makes for a hearty, satisfying meal. Whether you’re craving something cozy for dinner or need a delicious dish to impress your guests, this creamy pasta is sure to hit the spot. With minimal ingredients and a short cook time, it’s the perfect meal for busy nights!
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté the mushrooms until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add the spinach to the pan and cook until wilted, another 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream, garlic powder, parmesan, salt, and pepper, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the creamy sauce and stir to coat. Serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
Variations
- Add Protein: For extra protein, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the dish.
- Extra Cheese: Add more parmesan or mozzarella to make the pasta even cheesier.
- Veggie Options: Swap out spinach for kale or arugula for a different leafy green.
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish a little heat.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative and use vegan parmesan for a dairy-free version.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer—penne, fettuccine, or even whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this pasta is best served fresh, you can make the sauce ahead of time and combine it with the cooked pasta when ready to serve.
3. Can I substitute the mushrooms?
Yes, you can substitute mushrooms with other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor.
4. How do I make the pasta creamier?
For an even creamier texture, you can add more heavy cream or a bit of cream cheese to the sauce.
5. Can I use a different cheese instead of parmesan?
Yes, you can substitute parmesan with any hard cheese, such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago, or use a softer cheese like mozzarella for a different flavor.
6. How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce or stir in some chopped jalapeños.
7. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish.
8. How do I know when the sauce is done?
The sauce is done when it has thickened and is smooth. You can check by stirring and making sure the cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
9. Can I freeze this pasta?
You can freeze the sauce separately, but it’s best to cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve. The sauce may separate when reheated, so make sure to stir well.
10. Can I make this a vegan dish?
Yes, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk, and use vegan cheese and plant-based pasta for a vegan version.
Conclusion
Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. With its rich, cheesy sauce and tender vegetables, this dish is comforting, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving a group, this pasta will become a favorite in no time. Enjoy the creamy goodness with every bite!
Print
Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta
Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta combines rich heavy cream, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach, all coated in a cheesy parmesan sauce. This easy-to-make, comforting pasta dish is perfect for busy nights, offering a delicious balance of creamy texture and savory flavors. A must-try for any pasta lover!
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the mushrooms until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add Spinach: Add the spinach to the pan and cook until wilted, another 2-3 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, garlic powder, parmesan, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the pan, stirring to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Add Protein: Boost the protein with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Extra Cheese: Add more parmesan or mozzarella for a cheesier dish.
- Veggie Options: Try kale or arugula instead of spinach for variety.
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative and vegan parmesan for a dairy-free version.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
