Spinach Mushroom Pasta

Spinach Mushroom Pasta is the perfect cozy, comforting dinner that combines golden brown sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, and buttery pasta topped with Parmesan cheese. With just a few simple ingredients, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight meal. The addition of crushed red pepper gives it a slight kick, while the garlic and green onions bring in depth of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you want something flavorful without the long cooking time.

• Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples and fresh vegetables, this pasta is a great go-to meal.

• Flavorful and Satisfying: The buttery pasta with savory mushrooms and fresh spinach is topped off with the richness of Parmesan cheese, creating a well-rounded, hearty meal.

• Customizable: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper for your desired level of spice or add other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra texture and nutrition.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 ounces linguine or any long, slender pasta

• 6 tablespoons butter (divided)

• 1 pound mushrooms (washed, stems trimmed, and thinly sliced)

• 3 green onions (sliced into rounds)

• 4 cloves garlic (finely chopped)

• 5 ounces baby spinach

• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper (or more, to taste)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 2 ounces grated Parmesan cheese

• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to the package directions until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.

2. Sauté the Mushrooms:

• Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, for 7-9 minutes, until the liquid from the mushrooms releases and mostly evaporates, and the mushrooms are tender and golden brown.

3. Add the Green Onions and Garlic:

• Reduce the heat to medium and add the green onions and garlic to the skillet. Cook and stir for 2-3 minutes until the onions soften and the garlic becomes fragrant.

4. Add Spinach and Butter:

• Add spinach in large handfuls, stirring until each batch wilts. Add the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter and stir until melted.

5. Combine with Pasta:

• Add the drained pasta and ⅓ cup of the reserved pasta water to the spinach and mushroom mixture. Toss well to combine, adding more pasta water if the pasta seems too dry.

• Stir in the crushed red pepper and season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

6. Serve:

• Transfer the pasta to a serving bowl. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Notes

• Customizations: You can add extra veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or even sun-dried tomatoes to change up the flavor.

• Vegan Option: Swap out the butter for olive oil and use a plant-based Parmesan alternative to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

• More Protein: Add grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas for extra protein if desired.

Variations

• Spicy: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper to suit your spice tolerance. You can even add a dash of hot sauce to give it an extra kick.

• Creamy Version: Stir in some heavy cream or a plant-based cream to make the dish extra creamy and indulgent.

• Cheese Lovers: Add more Parmesan or other cheeses like mozzarella or goat cheese for a richer flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheat: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual servings.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the mushroom and spinach mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, just cook the pasta and toss everything together.

How do I make this pasta spicier?

Add more crushed red pepper or a bit of cayenne pepper to increase the heat level. You can also add a sliced fresh chili for an extra kick.

Conclusion

Spinach Mushroom Pasta is a quick, comforting, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With tender mushrooms, fresh spinach, and buttery pasta, it’s an easy recipe that will satisfy your taste buds. Top it with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a meal that’s simple yet elegant. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a cozy solo night, this pasta will hit the spot!