Go Back
When it comes to quick yet satisfying meals, the Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Pasta Skillet stands out as a comforting one-pan dish that seamlessly combines simplicity with elegance. This recipe is the embodiment of convenience, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights when time is of the essence, while also being sophisticated enough to impress guests at a dinner party. With a medley of wholesome ingredients and easy preparation steps, this dish not only pleases the palate but also brings a touch of gourmet flair to your dining table.

Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Pasta Skillet

Discover the delightful Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Pasta Skillet, a one-pan meal that combines convenience and elegance. Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, this dish unites wholesome ingredients like pasta, fresh spinach, and sautéed mushrooms in a rich, creamy sauce. Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup, it's a versatile recipe that caters to various dietary needs while delivering a comforting and satisfying meal everyone will love.

Ingredients
  

8 oz (225g) pasta of your choice (penne or fettuccine work well)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini varieties)

5 oz (140g) fresh spinach (or substitute with 1 cup frozen spinach)

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup vegetable broth

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (with additional for serving)

Juice of ½ lemon

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water, add a generous amount of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water for adjusting the sauce later. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

    Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing its aroma to fill the kitchen.

      Cook the Mushrooms: Introduce the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté them for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are well-browned and any moisture they released has evaporated.

        Add Spinach: Mix in the fresh spinach (if using frozen, ensure it has been thawed and drained). Stir the spinach until it wilts down, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Season the mixture with Italian seasoning, as well as salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

          Create the Cream Sauce: Pour the heavy cream and vegetable broth into the skillet, stirring to blend all the ingredients smoothly. Allow the mixture to simmer for approximately 5 minutes, until it thickens slightly. If the sauce becomes too thick for your liking, add small amounts of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

            Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, gently tossing it to coat each piece evenly with the creamy mushroom and spinach sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and squeeze in the lemon juice. Taste the dish and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed.

              Serve and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and serve the pasta immediately. For a finishing touch, sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese on top and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                  - Prep Time: 10 minutes

                    - Total Time: 25 minutes

                      - Servings: 4