Meta Description: This One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Spinach and Mushrooms is a simple, delicious, and creamy dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Ready in just 30 minutes!
When it comes to easy weeknight dinners, nothing beats the convenience of a one-pot meal. This One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Spinach and Mushrooms is an all-time favorite. Packed with the rich flavors of garlic, tender sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a creamy Parmesan sauce, this dish is satisfying and wholesome. The best part? It’s all made in one pot, meaning less cleanup afterward!
This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you’re short on time but still want a comforting, home-cooked meal. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some greens with the spinach, without compromising on flavor. Let’s dive into the steps to make this delicious pasta.
Ingredients for One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Spinach and Mushrooms
To whip up this easy and flavorful dish, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry and fridge. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225 g) fettuccine or any pasta of your choice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced (for that robust garlicky flavor)
- 8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced (white button or cremini mushrooms work well)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (you can also use baby spinach)
- 2 ½ cups vegetable or chicken broth (for a richer flavor, go for chicken broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream (adds that luxurious creaminess)
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (the star of the sauce)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional) (for a touch of heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) (for garnish)
How to Make One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Spinach and Mushrooms
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic and Mushrooms
Start by heating the olive oil and butter in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the pot. Sauté the mushrooms for about 5-7 minutes until they release their moisture and become golden brown. Mushrooms tend to shrink as they cook, so don’t worry if they seem like too much at first. This step is crucial for building flavor, as the mushrooms add a rich umami taste to the dish.
Step 2: Add the Pasta and Broth
Once the mushrooms are perfectly browned, it’s time to add the uncooked pasta directly into the pot. Yes, you read that right – the pasta goes straight in, no boiling separately! This is one of the best parts of one-pot meals.
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid. Give everything a good stir, ensuring the pasta is evenly distributed. The broth will cook the pasta while infusing it with flavor.
Step 3: Simmer and Cook the Pasta
Cover the pot and let the mixture come to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. Cook for about 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente, and most of the liquid has been absorbed. If needed, you can add a little more broth or water to ensure the pasta cooks thoroughly.
As the pasta cooks, it will absorb all the flavors of the garlic, mushrooms, and broth, creating a beautiful base for the creamy sauce to come.
Step 4: Stir in the Spinach and Cream
Once the pasta is cooked to your desired tenderness, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the chopped fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt. Spinach adds a pop of color and a boost of nutrients, making this dish a bit healthier without compromising on taste.
After the spinach has wilted, pour in the heavy cream. Stir everything together, ensuring the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce. The cream helps balance out the sharpness of the garlic and the earthiness of the mushrooms, making every bite perfectly luscious.
Step 5: Add the Parmesan Cheese
Now comes the best part: the Parmesan cheese! Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan over the pasta and stir until it melts into the sauce. The cheese thickens the sauce and adds that iconic nutty, savory flavor that makes this dish irresistible.
Taste the pasta and season with salt and pepper to your liking. If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Your One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Spinach and Mushrooms is now ready to be enjoyed! Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness, and maybe even a little extra Parmesan on top because, why not?
Serve the pasta hot, straight from the pot. Pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce.
Tips for Perfect One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Use freshly grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives the sauce a smoother texture compared to pre-shredded cheese.
- Don’t skip the broth: Cooking the pasta in broth instead of water infuses it with flavor, making the final dish even more delicious.
- Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the amount of broth slightly or let the pasta cook uncovered for the last few minutes. For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or a dairy-free alternative.
- Customize your vegetables: While spinach and mushrooms are a classic combination, feel free to switch it up! Kale, arugula, or even broccoli would be fantastic substitutes.
Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Spinach and Mushrooms
This recipe hits all the right notes when you’re looking for a comforting yet quick meal. The rich, creamy sauce perfectly coats the fettuccine, while the mushrooms add a hearty texture, and the spinach brings in freshness. Plus, the convenience of cooking everything in one pot means you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal. It’s also a versatile dish that can easily be adapted to suit your dietary preferences.
FAQs
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it fully vegetarian.
Can I add protein to this recipe?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy tofu would make excellent protein additions.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with penne, spaghetti, or any other pasta you prefer.
How can I store the leftovers?
Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut milk, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
Is it okay to freeze this pasta?
Cream-based sauces can sometimes separate when frozen, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. However, you can freeze the pasta and reheat it with a bit of cream to bring it back together