Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta
A comforting and creamy pasta dish with earthy mushrooms and vibrant spinach, topped with nutty Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (e.g., fettuccine or penne) Use your preferred pasta shape.
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups fresh spinach Can be substituted with other greens.
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced Any variety of mushrooms can be used.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream For a lighter option, use half-and-half.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Can upgrade with Pecorino Romano.
- to taste Salt and pepper
- to taste Red pepper flakes (optional) Add for a spicy kick.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside in a bowl.
Sautéing the Vegetables
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes, until they become golden brown and tender.
- Introduce the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, allowing the fragrant aroma to fill your kitchen.
- Add the fresh spinach to the pan, folding it gently until it wilts, which should take about 2 minutes.
Creating the Sauce
- Pour in the heavy cream and increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into a creamy sauce. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Combining and Serving
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the creamy mushroom and spinach sauce until everything is well coated.
- Season your dish with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately while hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if you like.
Notes
For an appealing presentation, plate the pasta in shallow bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper or fresh herbs. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.