Creamy Mushroom Spinach Penne Recipe

Introduction

This creamy mushroom spinach penne is a comforting and flavorful pasta dish that comes together in just 25 minutes. Packed with tender mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal anytime.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini or button mushrooms)
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
3. Step 3: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until they are golden brown and tender.
4. Step 4: Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Step 5: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if using.
6. Step 6: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce.
7. Step 7: Serve the creamy mushroom spinach penne hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use a plant-based cream alternative.
• Add cooked chicken or sausage for extra protein.
• Use gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free option.
• Fresh thyme or oregano can be added along with the Italian seasoning for a different herbal note.
• To enhance mushroom flavor, add a splash of white wine while sautéing the mushrooms and let it reduce before adding spinach.

Storage

Store any leftover creamy mushroom spinach penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, this recipe works well with any short pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

You can make the creamy mushroom spinach sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta for best texture.

Creamy Mushroom Spinach Penne Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 629 reviews

A rich and creamy mushroom spinach penne dish featuring sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a velvety Parmesan cream sauce. This quick and comforting pasta recipe is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal any time.

• Author: Dana
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 8 ounces penne pasta

Vegetables & Aromatics

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini or button mushrooms)
• 4 cups fresh spinach

Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-6 minutes until they turn golden brown and tender.
3. Add Spinach and Cream: Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Lower the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until smooth and melted. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if using.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the mushroom spinach cream sauce.
5. Serve: Plate the creamy mushroom spinach penne hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your comforting meal!

Notes

• To make it lighter, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.
• Use any type of mushrooms you prefer, such as cremini, button, or shiitake.
• For a vegetarian version, ensure Parmesan cheese is vegetarian-friendly or use a substitute.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
• If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic and onions.

Keywords: creamy mushroom pasta, spinach penne, easy vegetarian pasta, Italian pasta recipe, weeknight dinner pasta