Deliciously Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Pasta: A Quick and Easy Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of creamy pasta, and this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Pasta hits all the right notes.

Combining earthy mushrooms with vibrant spinach creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.

I love how quickly this comes together, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

Ingredient List

To make my Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Pasta, I gather the following ingredients:

• Pasta: 8 ounces of your choice (fettuccine or penne work great)
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for sautéing
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced for flavor
• Mushrooms: 8 ounces, sliced (I prefer cremini or button mushrooms)
• Spinach: 4 cups, fresh for that vibrant color and nutrition
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup for creaminess
• Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated for added richness
• Salt: ½ teaspoon to taste
• Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon for a hint of spice
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, for that extra kick

I make sure to have all these ingredients on hand for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 8 ounces of pasta (fettuccine or penne) and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, reserve 1 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta. Set aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic and Mushrooms
   In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms (preferably cremini or button) and cook until they are golden brown and tender, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
3. Add Spinach
   Once the mushrooms are ready, add 4 cups of fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir continuously until the spinach wilts down, which will take about 2 to 3 minutes. The vibrant green color of the spinach brightens the dish.
4. Make the Cream Sauce
   Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for 3 to 5 minutes, which will create a lush and creamy sauce. As it simmers, I enjoy the enticing aroma filling my kitchen.
5. Incorporate Parmesan Cheese
   Gradually add ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese into the cream sauce. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Feel free to add salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste during this step.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce
   Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently in the creamy sauce until well-coated. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is achieved.
7. Serve and Enjoy
   Plate your creamy spinach and mushroom pasta immediately. For an extra touch, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese and a dash of black pepper on top. I love serving this dish with a slice of crusty bread or a simple green salad.

Recipe Notes & Variations

When preparing my Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Pasta, I like to keep a few notes in mind to customize it to my taste. Here are some tips and variations you may find helpful:

Ingredient Swaps

• Pasta Type: While I often use fettuccine or penne, feel free to experiment with any pasta you have on hand such as spaghetti or farfalle.
• Mushroom Variety: Cremini and button mushrooms are my go-tos, but I love using shiitake or portobello for a deeper flavor profile.
• Cream Alternatives: If you’re looking to lighten things up, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even a plant-based cream like coconut cream for a dairy-free version.

Additions for Extra Flavor

• Proteins: I sometimes add diced chicken, grilled shrimp, or even chickpeas to make the dish heartier.
• Cheese Varieties: Along with Parmesan, I enjoy mixing in some feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
• Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can elevate the dish. A sprinkle of nutmeg adds a warm depth to the sauce.

Seasonal Adjustments

• Vegetable Variations: In spring, I add asparagus or peas, and in the winter, roasted butternut squash complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Spice Level: Adding crushed red pepper flakes is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat. Adjust the amount based on your preference.

• Leftovers: I recommend storing any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to help restore the creaminess.
• Freezing: While I prefer to enjoy this dish fresh, you can freeze portions. Just remember that the texture may change upon reheating.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving my Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Pasta with a few simple yet delightful pairings that balance the richness of the dish.

Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread makes the perfect accompaniment. I enjoy dipping chunks of bread into the creamy sauce and savoring every bite.
• Simple Green Salad: A refreshing green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the pasta beautifully. The crispness of the salad counters the creaminess, creating a well-rounded meal.
• Grated Parmesan: I like to sprinkle extra grated Parmesan on top just before serving. It adds an extra layer of flavor and makes the dish look even more tempting.
• Crushed Red Pepper: For those who enjoy a little heat, I recommend serving the pasta with crushed red pepper flakes on the side. A sprinkle of these flakes can elevate the dish with a spicy kick.
• Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: To turn this pasta into a heartier main course, I sometimes top it with grilled chicken or shrimp. The added protein makes it more filling and adds tasty flavors.
• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley right before serving brightens the dish and adds a burst of freshness.

Enjoy these suggestions or mix and match according to your palate.

The Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Pasta is versatile enough to pair well with various sides, making it a delightful option for any occasion.

Nutrition Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition information for one serving of Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Pasta, based on the ingredients listed.

This provides me with a good idea of how this dish fits into my daily meal plan.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	550
Total Fat	30 g
Saturated Fat	15 g
Cholesterol	80 mg
Sodium	400 mg
Total Carbohydrate	60 g
Dietary Fiber	4 g
Sugars	3 g
Protein	15 g
Vitamin A	50% DV
Vitamin C	20% DV
Calcium	25% DV
Iron	15% DV

Conclusion

I hope you’re as excited to try this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Pasta as I am. It’s such a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table.

With its creamy texture and vibrant ingredients it’s perfect for any occasion whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner.

Don’t forget to customize it to your taste. Whether you add some grilled chicken or swap in your favorite veggies the possibilities are endless.

And let’s be honest who doesn’t love a dish that’s both delicious and nutritious?

So gather your ingredients and enjoy a delightful meal that’s sure to impress. Happy cooking!

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