Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet

A creamy, comforting one-pan pasta dish loaded with sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and herbs. This easy skillet recipe delivers restaurant-style flavor with simple ingredients and is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

Pasta Skillet

• 12 ounces (340 g) pasta (penne, spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 12 ounces (340 g) mushrooms, sliced
• 5 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup vegetable broth or chicken broth
• ¾ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed)

Optional Additions

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cooked chicken, sliced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• Fresh basil leaves
• Extra Parmesan for serving
• Toasted pine nuts

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Sauté the Mushrooms

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook for 5–7 minutes until golden brown and their moisture has evaporated.
3. Add the onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Build the Sauce

1. Add Italian seasoning, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour in the broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
3. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

4. Add Spinach and Parmesan

1. Add the spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted.
2. Reduce the heat to low.
3. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
4. Add pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated.
5. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.

5. Serve

• Top with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
• Add freshly cracked black pepper and red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
• Serve warm with a side salad or garlic bread.

Tips for the Best Pasta

• Brown the mushrooms well before adding other ingredients for deeper flavor.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
• Do not boil the cream sauce too aggressively, as it may separate.
• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
• For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with evaporated milk or Greek yogurt (added off heat).

Storage & Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk, cream, or broth to restore the creamy texture.

Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 520–600
• Protein: 20–24 g
• Carbohydrates: 55–60 g
• Fat: 26–30 g
• Fiber: 5–7 g
• Sodium: 550–700 mg.