Parmesan mushroom spinach pasta recipe

This parmesan mushroom spinach pasta recipe is a quick and delicious dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. To elevate a simple bowl of creamy pasta, add rich Parmesan cheese along with garlicky mushrooms and spinach for an irresistible flavor. There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, hearty serving of creamy pasta. Not only is this dish incredibly satisfying, but it’s also so easy to prepare that it will make cooking feel effortless. Best of all, in just 25 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful pasta ready to enjoy.

Why should you try this mushroom spinach pasta recipe?

There are several great reasons to try this Parmesan mushroom spinach pasta recipe.

First, the creamy Parmesan sauce brings a rich, velvety texture to the dish, making every bite irresistibly smooth and flavorful.

Second, the combination of mushrooms and spinach adds an earthy depth while providing essential nutrients. Additionally, all the ingredients needed for this dish are easy to find, making it convenient to prepare anytime.

Lastly, this recipe is quick and simple to make, requiring only 25-30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a perfect choice for busy weeknights or when you need a satisfying meal in no time.

Ingredients for this pasta

Extra-virgin olive iil (2 tablespoons)

This high-quality oil is prized for its robust, fruity flavor and is essential for sautéing the garlic. it creates a flavorful base for the dish and helps meld the other ingredients together. its smooth texture enriches the overall sauce.

Fresh garlic cloves (6, minced)

Fresh garlic provides a bold, aromatic kick that elevates the dish’s flavor. minced garlic quickly infuses the oil, creating a savory foundation. its distinctive pungency adds depth and complexity to the recipe.

Cremini mushrooms (1 pound, cleaned and sliced)

Cremini mushrooms are celebrated for their rich, earthy taste and satisfying texture. they serve as the star ingredient, delivering a robust flavor that complements the creamy sauce. alternative brown mushrooms, such as baby bella or chestnut, can also be used for a similar effect.

Half-and-half or single cream (2¼ cups)

This dairy component lends a luxuriously creamy consistency to the sauce without overwhelming it. it balances the richness of the parmesan and mushrooms while ensuring a smooth texture. its use is key to achieving a velvety, well-integrated sauce.

Pasta (1 pound, any favorite type)

The pasta acts as the perfect canvas to absorb the luscious sauce. whether you choose fettuccine, penne, or another variety, it ties the entire dish together with its satisfying texture. its versatility makes it an ideal base for this recipe.

Spinach (8 oz)

Fresh spinach brings a burst of vibrant color and valuable nutrients to the dish. its mild, slightly earthy flavor pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. if using frozen spinach, ensure it is thoroughly thawed and excess moisture is removed.

Parmesan cheese (1 cup, freshly grated)

Freshly grated parmesan is crucial for thickening the sauce and imparting a tangy, savory depth. it contributes a nutty flavor that enriches the overall taste of the dish. this cheese binds the ingredients together, creating a harmonious, rich flavor profile.

Flat-leaf parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped)

Chopped parsley adds a refreshing, herbaceous note that brightens the dish. its vibrant green color enhances the presentation while its flavor provides a subtle, peppery finish. this garnish elevates the overall visual and taste appeal.

Salt and pepper (to taste)

Salt and pepper are essential seasonings that bring balance and enhance the natural flavors of all the ingredients. adjusting these seasonings allows you to tailor the dish to your personal taste. they are the final touches that ensure the dish is perfectly seasoned.

Step-by-step instructions to cook mushroom spinach pasta

Begin by filling a large pot with water and bringing it to a boil; add one tablespoon of salt to enhance the flavor of the pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is just under al dente, as it will finish cooking in the sauce.

While the pasta cooks, heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Then add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, which should take about one minute.

Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and season them with salt and pepper. Stir occasionally until the mushrooms turn golden and tender—this should take around eight minutes—then add the spinach and allow it to wilt into the mixture.

Once the spinach has wilted, pour in the half-and-half and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for about four minutes until it slightly thickens.

When the pasta is nearly done, reserve approximately half a cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta thoroughly.

Transfer the drained pasta into the skillet with the sauce, and then add the chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until the ingredients are well combined.

Gradually add half of the reserved pasta water while continuously tossing the pasta to ensure it is evenly coated and finishes cooking; add more water if the sauce becomes too thick.

Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.

Finally, serve the pasta immediately, ideally accompanied by a light salad and crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal.

Would like to see more pasta recipe? Take a look at our pasta recipes

Helpful tips

It is advisable to inspect your mushrooms for any traces of soil or dirt and then gently clean them with a damp paper towel.

I recommend taking your time when cooking the mushrooms so that the heat draws out their moisture, enhancing both their flavor and color—this extra effort is truly worthwhile.

When cooking the pasta, you should salt the water thoroughly to ensure that the pasta is well-seasoned as it boils, since even the best sauce cannot compensate for bland pasta.

It is important to avoid mushy pasta by testing its doneness approximately three minutes before the package’s recommended time, as the pasta will finish cooking in the sauce.

Keep in mind that Parmesan cheese is naturally salty, so always taste the sauce before deciding to add any additional salt.

Finally, you should not add oil to the pasta water because doing so will cause the sauce to slide off the pasta instead of coating it proper

How to store this pasta

Leftover mushroom spinach pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you plan to freeze it, allow the pasta to cool completely, then divide it into freezer-safe containers or bags, where it will last for up to three months. Before reheating, thaw the pasta overnight in the refrigerator to ensure even warming.