Creamy Tuscan Mushroom Pasta Skillet Recipe

Introduction

This Creamy Tuscan Mushroom Pasta Skillet combines tender mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce for a comforting and flavorful meal. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner that feels a little special.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or linguine)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1.5 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 0.5 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• salt, to taste
• black pepper, to taste
• fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and tender.
3. Step 3: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Add spinach and cook just until wilted.
4. Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Step 5: Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Step 6: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if desired, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Use a combination of mushrooms like cremini and shiitake for added depth of flavor.
• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half to lighten the dish, but the sauce will be less rich.
• For a protein boost, add cooked chicken or sautéed shrimp.
• Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can enhance the Tuscan flavors.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use dried spinach instead of fresh?

Fresh spinach works best for texture and flavor, but you can use frozen spinach—just thaw and drain it well before adding.

What pasta is best for this recipe?

Penne, fettuccine, or linguine are great choices because they hold the creamy sauce well, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.

Creamy Tuscan Mushroom Pasta Skillet Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 55 reviews

This Creamy Tuscan Mushroom Pasta Skillet is a delightful and comforting dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Featuring tender mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce, it combines simple ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying meal that can be ready in just 30 minutes.

• Author: reem
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or linguine)

Sauce and Vegetables

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1.5 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 0.5 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• salt, to taste
• black pepper, to taste
• fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to use later in the sauce.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until they turn golden brown and become tender, releasing their moisture.
3. Add Garlic and Spinach: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the fresh spinach and cook just until it wilts, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes.
4. Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy consistency.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet and toss to coat all the noodles evenly with the creamy mushroom sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference.
6. Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the pasta with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

• Use any pasta shape you prefer; penne, fettuccine, or linguine work especially well.
• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, though the sauce will be less rich.
• Fresh mushrooms are preferred for better texture and flavor, but you can use a mix of mushrooms like cremini or button.
• If you like, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.

Keywords: Tuscan mushroom pasta, creamy pasta skillet, vegetarian pasta, easy dinner recipe, mushroom cream sauce pasta