This creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet is the perfect one-pan comfort food for busy weeknights. Tender pasta, sautéed mushrooms, and fresh spinach come together in a rich, cheesy Parmesan sauce that feels indulgent yet wholesome. It’s a quick, easy, and tasty vegetarian recipe that everyone will love — cozy, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes.
8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
3 cups mushrooms, sliced (baby bella or cremini)
1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
4 garlic cloves, minced
3 cups baby spinach
1 tbsp flour
1 ½ cups milk (whole or 2%)
1 cup vegetable broth
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp cream cheese or heavy cream (optional)
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Cook pasta: Bring salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.
Sauté mushrooms: In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook 4–5 minutes until golden. Add onions if using, and cook until soft.
Add garlic and spinach: Stir in garlic for 30 seconds, then add spinach. Cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove mixture from skillet and set aside.
Make the sauce: In the same pan, add a drizzle of oil and sprinkle in flour. Stir for 30 seconds, then slowly whisk in milk and vegetable broth. Simmer 3–4 minutes until thickened.
Add cheese: Stir in Parmesan and cream cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Combine: Add cooked pasta, mushrooms, and spinach back to the pan. Toss until creamy and well coated. Add a splash of pasta water if needed.
Serve: Garnish with parsley or basil and extra Parmesan. Serve warm.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
For vegan: swap dairy with plant-based milk, vegan Parmesan, and vegan butter.
Add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp if desired.
Leftovers keep for up to 3 days refrigerated; reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth.