Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet: A Decadent Comfort Dish 🍝🧀🍄
1. Introduction
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of our Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet. This rich and velvety pasta dish combines tender mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a creamy Parmesan sauce to create a satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or weekend gatherings. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re a pasta enthusiast or looking for a new way to enjoy mushrooms and greens, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
2. Ingredients for Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta
- 8 oz (226 g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1.5 cups sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Creamy Pasta
Prepare the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water 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.
Sauté the Mushrooms
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté until golden and tender, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Cook the Garlic and Spinach
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Incorporate sautéed mushrooms and cook for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors. Adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Creamy Pasta
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. This pasta can be stored for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or pasta water if necessary to restore the creamy texture.
5. Serving Suggestions for Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta
Serve this creamy pasta dish topped with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan. Pair it with a light mixed greens salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For an added touch, consider a glass of crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Creamy Pasta
Can I substitute the cream in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version. Keep in mind that the sauce may be less rich, but still delicious.
Is this pasta suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely. This dish is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat, only vegetables, pasta, and dairy.
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
The entire process takes approximately 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick, satisfying dinner.
Can I add protein to this pasta?
Yes. For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or turkey slices.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – Perfect for roasting vegetables or cooking proteins that complement your pasta meal, making dinner prep more efficient.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures your skillet heats evenly and cleans easily, essential for sautéing mushrooms and preparing sauces.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer – Ideal for quick grilled sides or proteins that elevate your pasta experience, right in your kitchen.
8. Related Recipes to Explore
9. Conclusion
Our Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet offers a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that will satisfy any pasta lover. Using fresh ingredients and a simple process, you can create a gourmet-quality dish in just about 30 minutes. Elevate your dinner game and enjoy this luscious pasta with friends or family. Don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes on Cook Clarity. Happy cooking!
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Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
A rich and creamy parmesan spinach mushroom pasta cooked in one skillet for convenience and flavor, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne or spaghetti)
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté mushrooms until golden, about 5 minutes.
- 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 sauce thickens.
- Stir in spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet, toss to combine, and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra parmesan if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor; add more for a greener dish.
- Great with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop, skillet
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 480 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg