Mushroom Spinach Pasta
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish featuring sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a rich Parmesan sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Base
- 8 oz short pasta Use penne, fusilli, or farfalle for best texture.
- 2 tbsp olive oil Used for sautéing.
- 8 oz mushrooms Sliced; any variety works well.
- 2 cloves garlic Minced.
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken stock Enriches the sauce.
- 4 cups fresh spinach Offers vibrant color and nutrition.
- 1 cup heavy cream or half and half Provides creaminess.
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning Adds aromatic flavor.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Grated; adds richness.
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper Enhances flavor.
- 1/4 tsp red chili pepper flakes Optional for spice.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Prepare the short pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain, reserving about half a cup of the pasta cooking water.
Sautéing
- In a large skillet, warm two tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently for about four to five minutes until they begin to brown on the edges. Transfer the mushrooms to a plate and keep them warm.
- Introduce the minced garlic into the skillet and sauté for about one minute or until fragrant.
Building the Sauce
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock, scraping the brown bits from the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to enhance flavor.
- Lower the heat to medium-low and allow the broth to simmer for about two to three minutes.
- Incorporate the fresh spinach and stir, bringing the wilted spinach from the bottom to the top, cooking until wilted.
- Return the cooked mushrooms to the skillet, stirring in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Cook for another two minutes to meld flavors.
Final Assembly
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss well to combine all ingredients.
- Incorporate the grated Parmesan, ground black pepper, and red chili pepper flakes into the mixture. Toss to ensure even distribution, adding reserved pasta water if the dish seems too dry.
- Enjoy the pasta immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
To elevate flavor, use fresh, high-quality Parmesan. Experiment with different mushrooms and add veggies for variety. Best enjoyed fresh but stores well in the fridge for up to three days.