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Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet

This Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet is a one-pan, 30-minute recipe that’s packed with creamy parmesan goodness, sautéed mushrooms, and fresh spinach. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or a comforting vegetarian meal that feels indulgent yet comes together with ease.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Weeknight Meal
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Core Ingredients
  • 8 oz penne pasta or your favorite shape
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms sliced
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup milk whole or 2%
  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes optional for a kick
Optional Add-ins
  • Grilled chicken or shrimp
  • Sun-dried tomatoes
  • Fresh basil or parsley
  • A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Pasta pot
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Grater for parmesan

Method
 

Cook the pasta:
  1. Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté mushrooms and garlic:
  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Deglaze and simmer:
  1. Pour in vegetable broth and milk, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a simmer.
Melt in the cheese:
  1. Stir in parmesan cheese gradually until melted and smooth.
Add the greens:
  1. Toss in fresh spinach and stir until wilted.
Combine pasta and sauce:
  1. Add cooked pasta into the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Serve hot:
  1. Garnish with extra parmesan and fresh herbs.

Notes

Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet – Helpful Tips

Pasta Perfect Timing
  • Cook pasta 1–2 minutes shy of al dente—it’ll finish cooking in the skillet, soaking up all that savory goodness.
  • Reserve some pasta water before draining. That starchy liquid is magic for loosening up the sauce and making it silky.
Mushroom Must-Do’s
  • Sauté mushrooms until they’re deep golden brown and have released their moisture—it amps up their umami flavor.
  • A mix of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, or even portobello gives the dish more depth.
Spinach Tip
  • Add spinach off the heat or at the very end to prevent overcooking. It wilts fast and stays vibrant green.
  • Frozen spinach works too! Just make sure it’s thawed and well-drained.
Cheese It Up!
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan—it melts smoother and tastes way better than pre-shredded.
  • Want it extra creamy? Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese before adding Parmesan.
Flavor Boosters
  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for brightness and a little kick.
  • A drizzle of truffle oil right before serving turns this into a gourmet moment.
Serving & Storing
  • Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh arugula salad for a full meal.
  • Leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or pasta water to bring back its creamy texture.
Tasty Variations to Try
  • Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for a protein-packed version.
  • Go green with extra veggies like peas, asparagus, or broccoli florets.
  • Swap Parmesan with pecorino romano for a sharper, saltier kick.