Creamy Mushroom Spinach Penne is a delightful pasta dish that combines tender penne pasta with sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini or button mushrooms)
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Timing

Making the Creamy Mushroom Spinach Penne takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 15 minutes for cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil.
2. Cook Onions and Garlic: Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
3. Add Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until they are golden brown and tender.

Step 3: Add Spinach and Cream

1. Add Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Pour in Cream: Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Add Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using).

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Mix Pasta: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish and Enjoy: Serve the creamy mushroom spinach penne hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of the Creamy Mushroom Spinach Penne (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	450
Protein	12g
Fat	25g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	3g

Tips for Customization

• Add Protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein.
• Different Vegetables: Substitute or add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Conclusion

Creamy Mushroom Spinach Penne is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with fresh spinach in a rich and creamy sauce. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, this pasta dish is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this delightful recipe!