As I buzzed around the kitchen, a fragrant aroma began to wrap around me—a delightful tease from the sizzling cremini mushrooms. I couldn’t resist the pull of nostalgia that surfaced as I cooked up this 30-Minute Mushroom Spinach Pasta. This easy-to-make recipe packs a punch of flavor thanks to the rich garlic-Asiago butter sauce, turning a simple weeknight dinner into a cozy culinary adventure. Not only is it vegetarian and customizable, but it comes together in just half an hour, making it perfect for those evenings when time is tight but the craving for something wholesome is high. If you’re eager to discover how a handful of ingredients can create a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress, stay tuned. What surprise twist will you add to make it your own? Why is Mushroom Spinach Pasta a Must-Try? Comforting, This creamy Mushroom Spinach Pasta is the epitome of home-cooked goodness, inviting you to snuggle up with a delightful bowl. Quick & Easy, With just 30 minutes to prepare, it’s perfect for busy evenings—no more reaching for takeout! Customizable, Dress it up with your choice of proteins like chickpeas or Italian sausage, or keep it simple for a quick vegetarian meal. Flavor-Packed, The garlic-Asiago butter sauce delivers a rich flavor that will elevate your dinner table any day of the week. Nutritious, Packed with spinach and protein-rich pasta, it’s a wholesome option that satisfies both your taste buds and health goals. Now, if you’re looking for more easy meal ideas, consider trying out the Garlic Parmesan Pasta or indulge in a special night with Marry Chicken Pasta. Mushroom Spinach Pasta Ingredients • Dive into this delicious dish with just a handful of components! For the Pasta Protein Pasta – Adds heartiness; feel free to substitute with any pasta of your choice. For the Sauté Cremini Mushrooms – Bring a savory, umami flavor; shiitake or button mushrooms can work too. Spinach – Offers vibrant color and nutrients; adjust the amount based on your preference, or use kale. Garlic (minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is best for that extra punch. Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; consider using plant-based butter for a dairy-free alternative. Aleppo Pepper Flakes – Gives a mild heat and flavor depth; regular red pepper flakes can be used as a substitute. For the Sauce Reserved Pasta Water – Essential for perfecting the sauce’s texture; don’t forget to keep some for adjustments. Sherry Cooking Wine – Intensifies flavors; white wine is a suitable swap if needed, or simply omit. Kosher Salt – Enhances all the flavors; adjust according to your taste preferences. Black Pepper (freshly ground) – Freshly ground brings superior flavor to the table. For Topping Finely Grated Asiago Cheese – Melts beautifully and adds a creamy finish; Parmesan works as an easy replacement. Enjoy creating this satisfying Mushroom Spinach Pasta that’s sure to become a household favorite! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mushroom Spinach Pasta Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms Begin by cleaning and thinly slicing the cremini mushrooms, ensuring to include the tender stems for added flavor. This step should take about 5 minutes. Set the sliced mushrooms aside while you gather the rest of your ingredients to keep everything organized for your 30-minute Mushroom Spinach Pasta. Step 2: Cook the Pasta In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add your choice of protein pasta, cooking it according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining to help adjust the sauce later, adding an essential layer of flavor. Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, allowing it to foam gently. Add the sliced cremini mushrooms and sauté for 6-8 minutes until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to release the mushrooms’ delectable, savory aroma that will enhance your Mushroom Spinach Pasta. Step 4: Add Garlic and Spinach Once the mushrooms are golden, stir in minced garlic and fresh spinach into the skillet. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted beautifully, creating a vibrant mix of colors. Sprinkle in Aleppo pepper flakes, along with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, enhancing the flavors that will envelop the pasta. Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce After the pasta is ready, add it directly into the skillet with the sautéed mushrooms and spinach mixture. Pour in ¼ cup of the reserved pasta water and sherry cooking wine, gently mixing to combine everything. Also, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, allowing it to melt and create a luscious sauce that clings to each strand of pasta. Step 6: Adjust the Sauce If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add more of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency, stirring well to combine. The goal is a creamy texture that perfectly envelops the Mushroom Spinach Pasta. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed, ensuring every bite is flavorful and satisfying, ready for its final touches. Step 7: Serve and Garnish Plate your delicious Mushroom Spinach Pasta, generously garnishing it with finely grated Asiago cheese and additional freshly ground black pepper to enhance the dish. The creamy sauce and vibrant ingredients create a beautiful presentation, inviting everyone to dive in and savor this comforting, home-cooked meal. How to Store and Freeze Mushroom Spinach Pasta Fridge: Store leftover Mushroom Spinach Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing to prevent condensation. Freezer: If you plan to freeze, portion the pasta in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2-3 months. For best quality, avoid freezing with the cheese. Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then heat on the stove over low heat with a splash of reserved pasta water to restore creaminess. Reminder: Always check for any off smells or discoloration before consuming leftovers to ensure freshness! Expert Tips for Mushroom Spinach Pasta Perfect Pasta Timing: Start boiling your pasta water as soon as you begin prepping ingredients to save time. This ensures everything finishes around the same time for your 30-minute Mushroom Spinach Pasta. Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt when boiling your pasta; it’s crucial for vibrant flavor. The more seasoned the water, the tastier your pasta will be! Avoid Burnt Garlic: Stirring your garlic frequently as it sautés will prevent it from burning, which can give the sauce an unpleasant bitter taste. Texture Control: If your sauce is too thick, gradually incorporate more reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency. Remember, you want a creamy sauce that clings to the pasta. Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil can add a pop of color and freshness, elevating your Mushroom Spinach Pasta presentation. What to Serve with 30-Minute Mushroom Spinach Pasta To truly elevate your dining experience, consider pairing versatile sides and beverages that harmonize beautifully with your creamy Mushroom Spinach Pasta. Garlic Bread: A classic choice, crispy garlic bread serves as the perfect vehicle to savor any remaining sauce. The buttery crunch contrasts wonderfully with the creamy pasta. Side Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness, balancing the richness of the pasta. Incorporate ingredients like cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for extra crunch and flavor. Roasted Vegetables: Vibrant roasted peppers and zucchini bring colorful textures and earthy flavors that complement the dish. Their slight sweetness enhances the overall profile while adding nutritious elements to your meal. Sautéed Greens: Lively sautéed kale or Swiss chard, seasoned with garlic and a touch of lemon, offers a delightful contrast in flavors and textures. The nutrients and vibrancy uplift the comfort of the pasta beautifully. Wine Pairing: A chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, accentuates the dish’s garlicky notes. Its crisp acidity refreshes your palate while enjoying the creamy sauce. Dessert Option: End your meal on a sweet note with a light lemon sorbet. Its citrusy zing provides a refreshing finale, cleansing the palate after savoring the rich Mushroom Spinach Pasta. Variations & Substitutions for Mushroom Spinach Pasta Feel free to mix things up and make this dish uniquely yours—transforming flavors that will delight your taste buds! Dairy-Free: Substitute the unsalted butter and Asiago cheese with plant-based butter and nutritional yeast for a creamy, vegan version. It still feels indulgent without the dairy! Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor or texture, ensuring everyone can enjoy this dish. Protein Boost: Add cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken for a heartier meal. This simple swap makes it even more filling and rich in protein. Greens Galore: Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard for varied flavors and nutritional benefits. Each green can bring its own unique flair to the dish. Flavor Explosion: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a sweet, tangy burst that livens each bite and elevates the entire meal. Heated Up: Kick up the heat by adding crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce; for a more mellow spice, use paprikas. Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or parsley during the final steps for extra fragrance and brightness, turning up the flavor profile. Mushroom Medley: Combine different mushroom varieties, such as shiitake or oyster, to deepen the umami flavor and add delicious textures to the dish. For inspiration, if you’re looking for a delightfully cheesy option, check out the Pistachio Mushroom Cheesecake or a comforting choice with Garlic Parmesan Pasta that might spark your culinary creativity! Make Ahead Options These Mushroom Spinach Pasta components are perfect for meal prep! You can slice the cremini mushrooms and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 24 hours in advance to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can cook the pasta ahead of time and toss it with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking, which will be perfect for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the prepped ingredients along with fresh spinach and garlic, combine with the reserved pasta, and finish with butter and Asiago cheese for a creamy, indulgent dish that will taste just as delicious as when made fresh! This way, you’ll have a delightful and quick meal ready with minimal effort. Mushroom Spinach Pasta Recipe FAQs What kind of mushrooms should I use for Mushroom Spinach Pasta? Absolutely! Cremini mushrooms are my go-to for this dish because they offer a deep, umami flavor and meaty texture. However, shiitake mushrooms or button mushrooms can also work well. If you’re using shiitake, just be sure to remove the woody stems. How should I store leftover Mushroom Spinach Pasta? To keep your delightful meal fresh, store leftover Mushroom Spinach Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation and soggy pasta. Can I freeze Mushroom Spinach Pasta? Certainly! To freeze your Mushroom Spinach Pasta, portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring to omit the cheese to maintain quality. It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water for creaminess. What if my sauce is too thick? No worries, it happens! If you find that your sauce is too thick, gradually add more reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Start with a tablespoon at a time, stirring well to ensure the sauce envelops the pasta beautifully without being runny. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians? Yes, it is! This Mushroom Spinach Pasta is vegetarian-friendly, packed with nutrient-rich spinach and protein pasta. You can also add chickpeas for an extra protein boost or keep it simple for a quick, satisfying meal. Just be cautious if you have any specific allergies related to the ingredients, especially concerning the cheese. Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe? Very much so! You can easily substitute the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. Be mindful of adjusting the cooking time as gluten-free options may require less time. Your Mushroom Spinach Pasta will still be delicious and satisfying! Creamy Mushroom Spinach Pasta Ready in 30 Minutes Enjoy this Mushroom Spinach Pasta, a quick and creamy vegetarian dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 500 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta8 oz Protein Pasta Feel free to substitute with any pasta of your choice.For the Sauté8 oz Cremini Mushrooms Bring a savory, umami flavor.4 cups Spinach Adjust the amount based on your preference.3 cloves Garlic (minced) Fresh garlic is best.2 tbsp Unsalted Butter Consider using plant-based butter for a dairy-free alternative.1 tsp Aleppo Pepper Flakes Regular red pepper flakes can be used as a substitute.For the Sauce½ cup Reserved Pasta Water Essential for perfecting the sauce's texture.¼ cup Sherry Cooking Wine White wine is a suitable swap or omit.1 tsp Kosher Salt Adjust according to your taste.½ tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground) Freshly ground brings superior flavor.For Topping½ cup Finely Grated Asiago Cheese Parmesan works as an easy replacement. Equipment Large potSkilletCutting boardKnife Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by cleaning and thinly slicing the cremini mushrooms, then set aside.In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook your choice of pasta according to package instructions, reserving ½ cup of pasta water before draining.Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté for 6-8 minutes.Add minced garlic and fresh spinach to the skillet, sautéing for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.Add the cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and sherry cooking wine to the skillet, mixing gently. Add remaining butter and combine.Adjust the sauce's thickness by adding more reserved pasta water if necessary and adjust seasoning to taste.Plate and garnish with Asiago cheese and additional black pepper before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg NotesStore leftover Mushroom Spinach Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. For freezing, portion the pasta in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
