Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
This creamy skillet pasta combines earthy mushrooms, fresh spinach, and savory Parmesan cheese in a light garlic sauce. It’s a comforting weeknight dish that feels indulgent but uses wholesome ingredients. Bonus: everything cooks in one pan for minimal cleanup!
⏱ Time
Prep: 10 minutes
Cooking: 20 minutes
Total: 30 minutes
Ingredients
8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
10 oz (300 g) mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button)
4 cups fresh spinach
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup milk or half-and-half
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp Italian seasoning (or mix of oregano, thyme, basil)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
1. Cook pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook mushrooms & aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add onion and cook 3 minutes until softened.
Add garlic and mushrooms; sauté 6–7 minutes until mushrooms are golden and reduced.
3. Make sauce
Pour in broth and milk. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add pasta & spinach
Add drained pasta into the skillet.
Stir in fresh spinach and cook 2 minutes until wilted.
5. Finish with Parmesan
Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan until creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
6. Serve
Garnish with extra Parmesan and red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes & Tips
Creamier option → Replace half the milk with heavy cream.
Protein boost → Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage.
Nutty depth → Stir in toasted pine nuts or walnuts with spinach.
Make ahead → Best eaten fresh, but leftovers keep 2 days in the fridge (reheat with a splash of broth or milk).
❓ frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes, just use gluten-free pasta.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh spinach?
A: Frozen spinach works – thaw, squeeze out liquid, and stir in at the end.
Q: Can I skip the milk?
A: Yes, use more broth for a lighter sauce, or add a spoon of cream cheese for creaminess.
Nutrition Information
Calories: ~420
Protein: 17g
Carbs: 55g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 5g