This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Penne Pasta is the perfect comfort dish — a delightful blend of tender mushrooms, fresh spinach, and al dente penne tossed in a luscious garlic cream sauce. It’s a hearty vegetarian pasta that feels luxurious yet is simple enough to prepare on a busy weeknight.

Every bite delivers the earthy aroma of mushrooms, the freshness of spinach, and the creamy, garlicky sauce coating each strand of pasta beautifully. Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a gathering with loved ones, this pasta satisfies every craving for something warm, flavorful, and comforting.

❤️ Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it perfectly balances indulgence and nutrition. The mushrooms add meaty depth, the spinach brings freshness and color, and the creamy sauce ties it all together into a silky masterpiece.

It’s the kind of dish that feels special without being complicated. One pot, a few fresh ingredients, and you have a meal that smells like an Italian restaurant and tastes even better. Plus, it’s easily customizable — you can make it vegan, add chicken, or toss in your favorite herbs and cheeses.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
Full of flavor: Rich, earthy mushrooms with creamy garlic sauce.
Wholesome: Packed with spinach for a nutritious twist.
Restaurant-style comfort: Creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying.
Versatile: Works as a main dish or side for grilled meats.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings and Nutrition

Servings: 3–4
Calories per Serving: ~480 kcal

Cuisine and Course

Cuisine: Italian
Course: Main Course / Dinner / Lunch

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

250 g penne pasta
Salt, for boiling water
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce:

2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
250 g mushrooms (button, cremini, or mixed), sliced
2 cups fresh spinach leaves
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
½ cup milk (adjust for desired consistency)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp dried Italian herbs (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Pinch of chili flakes (optional)

Simple Cooking Directions

Boil pasta until al dente.
Sauté garlic, onion, and mushrooms in butter and olive oil.
Add cream, milk, and seasonings to make the sauce.
Stir in spinach and cooked pasta, finish with Parmesan.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add penne pasta and cook until al dente (around 9–10 minutes).
Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water. Drizzle with olive oil and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Mushrooms

Heat 2 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and chopped onion; sauté until translucent and fragrant.
Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and turn golden brown (about 6–7 minutes).
Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of chili flakes if desired.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat slightly and pour in the heavy cream and milk.
Stir well and let the sauce simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth.
Taste and adjust seasoning.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Pasta

Add the spinach leaves to the skillet and stir until wilted.
Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together.
Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce feels too thick.
Stir until the sauce coats the pasta evenly and becomes silky.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked pepper.
Serve hot with garlic bread or a crisp salad on the side.

How to Serve

Serve hot in a deep bowl topped with grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of herbs.
Add a drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
Pairs beautifully with garlic toast, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.
Great for a cozy weeknight dinner or even an elegant lunch.

Additional Recipe Tips

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the creamiest texture.
Don’t overcook the spinach — it should just wilt.
Add a splash of white wine before the cream for extra flavor.
Stir sauce gently — high heat can cause cream to curdle.
Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.

Variations

Vegan Version: Use plant-based cream and vegan butter; nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Chicken Spinach Pasta: Add grilled chicken strips or shredded rotisserie chicken.
Spicy Kick: Add more chili flakes or a pinch of smoked paprika.
Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in mozzarella or ricotta for extra richness.
Whole Wheat Version: Substitute penne with whole-grain or gluten-free pasta.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month.
Reheating: Warm on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to bring back the sauce’s creaminess.

Special Equipment Needed

Large pot (for pasta)
Deep skillet or sauté pan
Wooden spoon or spatula
Colander
Cheese grater

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, thaw it completely and squeeze out excess water before adding.

Q2: What type of mushrooms work best?
Button, cremini, or portobello mushrooms all work beautifully.

Q3: Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use coconut cream or oat cream and vegan cheese.

Q4: How do I make the sauce thicker?
Let it simmer longer, or add an extra tablespoon of Parmesan.

Q5: Can I add protein?
Yes! Chicken, shrimp, or tofu work great with this base.

Conclusion

Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Penne Pasta is a timeless, comforting meal that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat. The earthy mushrooms, silky cream sauce, and vibrant spinach come together to create a bowl of pure comfort that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

It’s a versatile dish — elegant enough for entertaining, simple enough for weeknights, and endlessly adaptable to your tastes. With every bite, you’ll taste warmth, comfort, and a touch of Italian magic.