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Creamy Garlic Mushroom and Spinach Penne Pasta

creamy garlic mushroom and spinach penne pasta - featured image
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A quick and comforting 30-minute pasta dish featuring sautéed garlic mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a luscious creamy sauce that coats every penne piece perfectly.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) dry penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) cremini or white button mushrooms, sliced
  • 4 cups packed fresh spinach (about 120 grams), roughly chopped
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • ½ cup (50 grams) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional), a pinch
  • Fresh parsley or basil (optional), chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces (340 grams) of penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 11 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup (120 ml) of pasta water.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 4 cloves minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant—do not let it brown.
  3. Add 8 ounces (225 grams) sliced mushrooms, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until mushrooms are tender and golden brown.
  4. Lower the heat slightly and add 4 cups packed fresh chopped spinach. Stir until wilted, about 2-3 minutes, keeping the spinach bright green.
  5. Pour in 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if the sauce is too thick.
  6. Add the drained penne to the skillet, tossing well to coat every piece in the creamy sauce. Stir in ½ cup (50 grams) freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or basil if using. Serve immediately.

Notes

Do not overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness. Cook mushrooms in a single layer to brown properly. Add spinach last to keep it vibrant and tender. Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and enhances flavor. Stir pasta into sauce off heat to prevent cream from curdling.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy garlic mushroom pasta, spinach penne, easy pasta recipe, quick dinner, vegetarian pasta, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://lunafeast.com/creamy-garlic-mushroom-and-spinach-penne-pasta-easy-30-minute-recipe/