© Original Recipe By Fresh & Fit Recipes ©
One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta 🍝🧀🍄
1. Introduction
If you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner that combines rich flavors with minimal cleanup, then this creamy Parmesan pasta with spinach and mushrooms is your perfect solution. This spinach mushroom pasta recipe is a delightful combination of tender vegetables coated in a luscious, cheesy sauce, all cooked in a single pan. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also offers a nutritious twist on classic pasta dishes. Let’s dive into how to make this irresistibly creamy and savory meal that will become a regular favorite in your household.
2. Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) of your favorite pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or plant-based alternative
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
3. Step-by-step Instructions for Making Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Preparing the Pasta
Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency later.
Sautéing the Vegetables
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook for about 5 minutes until soft and slightly browned. Throw in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
Creating the Creamy Sauce
Reduce heat to low, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine, scraping any bits off the bottom of the pan. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and forms a smooth, velvety sauce. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta directly into the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to help restore creaminess. Avoid freezing this dish, as the sauce may separate upon thawing.
5. Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Pasta Dish
This creamy Parmesan pasta pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad with vinaigrette. For added flavor, sprinkle extra Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley over the top before serving. For a protein boost, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon bits.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I substitute heavy cream in this creamy Parmesan pasta?
Absolutely. You can use alternative options like half-and-half, milk combined with flour, or plant-based creams such as coconut or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
How long does it take to make this dish?
From start to finish, this recipe takes approximately 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights when you’re short on time.
Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Use vegan pasta, dairy-free cheese, and plant-based cream substitutes to adapt this recipe for vegetarian or vegan diets.
What are some good variations or add-ins?
Try adding grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme also enhance the dish.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
Cooking this effortless spinach mushroom pasta becomes even easier with the right tools. Check out this Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — it streamlines many kitchen tasks, saving you time. For efficient cookware, the T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set offers durability and excellent heat distribution for sautéing vegetables and cooking sauces perfectly. If you want to enhance your pasta-making experience, the Philips 7000 Series Pasta Maker makes shaping fresh pasta a breeze. For day-to-day cooking, a high-quality stand mixer like the KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange is perfect for preparing dough and mixing ingredients efficiently.
8. Conclusion
This creamy Parmesan pasta is a foolproof, satisfying dish that comes together in a single pan, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The combination of tender pasta, sautéed mushrooms, vibrant spinach, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce creates a memorable and comforting meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe guarantees rave reviews. Try it out today and enjoy a delicious easy weeknight dinner that will quickly become a favorite!
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One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta
Creamy parmesan pasta with spinach and mushrooms cooked in one skillet, perfect for a fast and flavorful weeknight meal.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or spaghetti)
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta in boiling salted water until al dente, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, sauté mushrooms until browned.
- Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in heavy cream, bring to a simmer, then stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked pasta and spinach, toss until spinach wilts and everything is combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, serve warm.
Notes
- Adjust cheese amount for creamier or lighter sauce.
- You can add cooked chicken or bacon for extra protein.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 520 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg