Creamy Spinach Mushroom Pasta: A Cozy Italian-Inspired Winter Delight

There’s something magical about winter evenings—the kind that calls for comfort food, a warm kitchen, and a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. This Creamy Spinach Mushroom Pasta is exactly that.

I remember my Nonna stirring a pot of creamy sauces in her rustic kitchen in Florence, always tossing in whatever fresh vegetables were on hand. Spinach and mushrooms were her favorite pairing—earthy, vibrant, and hearty. Inspired by her simple yet soulful cooking, this vegetarian pasta brings together tender mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a luscious cream sauce, all twirled around perfectly cooked pasta.

Whether you’re winding down after a long day or planning a romantic dinner for two, this dish is your ticket to Italian comfort—without ever leaving your home.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Spinach Mushroom Pasta

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Vegetarian Comfort: Rich, creamy, and satisfying—without any meat.
• Winter-Perfect: Warm, cozy flavors ideal for chilly nights.
• Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples with fresh greens and mushrooms.
• Authentic Italian Touch: Inspired by traditional flavors, modernized for everyday cooking.

Ingredients for Creamy Spinach Mushroom Pasta (2 Servings)

• 180g pasta (fettuccine, tagliatelle, or your favorite)
• 200g fresh mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced
• 100g fresh spinach leaves
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 150ml heavy cream
• 30g grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• A pinch of nutmeg (optional, but highly recommended)
• 50ml pasta cooking water (reserved)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Spinach Mushroom Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 50ml of pasta water before draining.

Tip: Always salt your pasta water—it should taste like the sea for the best flavor infusion!

Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even browning.

Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—let the mushrooms sear for that deep, umami flavor.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spinach

Add minced garlic to the mushrooms and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Toss in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Reduce heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine with the mushrooms and spinach. Add grated Parmesan, a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir until the pasta is well coated in the creamy mixture.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Plate the pasta, garnish with extra Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad.

Buon Appetito! 🇮🇹

Serving Suggestions & Variations

• Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken or pan-seared tofu for extra heartiness.
• Make it Vegan: Swap butter for olive oil, use plant-based cream, and vegan Parmesan.
• Pasta Choices: Works beautifully with penne, spaghetti, or pappardelle.
• Herb Boost: Add fresh thyme or oregano for an aromatic twist.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Creamy Pasta

1. Use freshly grated Parmesan—it melts better and enhances flavor.
2. Don’t overcook the spinach; it should stay vibrant.
3. Adjust creaminess by balancing pasta water and cheese.
4. For an extra depth of flavor, deglaze mushrooms with a splash of white wine before adding cream.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 520 kcal
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 4g

Conclusion

This Creamy Spinach Mushroom Pasta is proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. With just a few simple ingredients and a touch of Italian flair, you can create a dish that warms both heart and soul. I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Did you add your own twist? Share your experience in the comments or tag your creation on social media!

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