Description
Creamy one-pot garlic parmesan pasta blends earthy mushrooms and tender spinach into a comforting Italian-inspired meal. Home cooks can savor this simple, satisfying dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors directly to your dinner table.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 2 cups spinach leaves
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 4 cloves garlic
Dairy and Cheese:
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
Liquids and Seasonings:
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried italian herbs
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, creating a glossy cooking surface.
- Sauté minced garlic for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, releasing its aromatic essence without browning.
- Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing them to develop a golden-brown caramelization and release their natural moisture.
- Incorporate pasta, chicken broth, salt, black pepper, and dried Italian herbs into the skillet, stirring to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking.
- When pasta is almost tender, fold in fresh spinach leaves, allowing them to wilt and integrate into the dish.
- Remove skillet from heat and stir in heavy cream, butter, and grated parmesan cheese, creating a rich and creamy sauce that coats the pasta.
- Let the pasta rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and absorb the flavors.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with additional parmesan cheese if desired, for a luxurious and comforting one-pot meal.
Notes
- Choose low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and create a healthier version of this creamy pasta dish.
- Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter, less caloric alternative that still maintains a rich texture.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious meal.
- Enhance protein content by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more substantial and nutritionally balanced one-pot wonder.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg