Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta: A Comforting Weeknight Classic

Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with umami flavor, Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta is a satisfying and soul-warming dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. This pasta recipe combines tender noodles with sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a luxuriously creamy Parmesan sauce for a meal that feels gourmet but comes together in just about 30 minutes.

Perfect for vegetarians, pasta lovers, or anyone craving a cozy, hearty dinner, this dish is ideal for weeknight meals, meatless Mondays, or date night in. With a combination of earthy mushrooms, nutrient-rich greens, and a sauce that clings to every bite, it’s the kind of dinner you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Pasta

  • Rich and comforting – creamy sauce with deep, savory flavor
  • Quick & easy – on the table in about 30 minutes
  • Meatless & satisfying – packed with protein from cheese and mushrooms
  • Customizable – add your favorite pasta or extra veggies
  • Perfect for leftovers – reheats beautifully

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or linguine work well)

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
  • 8 oz mushrooms (button, cremini, or baby bella), sliced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half)
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
  • Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional but recommended)
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

‍ How to Make Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta

✅ 1. Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
  • Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

✅ 2. Sauté the Mushrooms

  • Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add onions and cook until translucent.
  • Add mushrooms and sauté until browned and tender, about 6–8 minutes.
  • Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

✅ 3. Add Spinach

  • Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.

✅ 4. Make the Cream Sauce

  • Reduce heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine.
  • Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
  • Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

✅ 5. Combine and Serve

  • Toss in the cooked pasta and mix until well coated.
  • If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
  • Garnish with more Parmesan and chopped parsley or basil.
  • Serve hot with crusty bread or a simple salad.

Expert Tips

  • Use high-quality Parmesan – freshly grated cheese melts better.
  • Don’t rush the mushrooms – let them brown for deep flavor.
  • Try different greens – kale or arugula work in place of spinach.
  • Add protein – grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra heartiness.

What Pairs Well with This Pasta

  • Garlic bread or focaccia
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Crisp green salad with vinaigrette
  • A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio

Storage and Reheating

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk.
  • This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the cream sauce, but it holds up well in the fridge.

Comfort in Every Bite

With its rich, velvety sauce and nourishing mix of vegetables, Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta is the kind of dish that makes dinner feel special without any stress. It’s a perfect balance of indulgence and simplicity, sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Whether you’re curling up with a bowl on a chilly night or sharing with friends over a bottle of wine, this pasta brings warmth, elegance, and flavor to your table.

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