This creamy and flavorful Cheesy Mushroom and Spinach White Sauce Pasta combines earthy mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a rich, cheesy white sauce for a comforting meal perfect for any day.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- Pasta: 300 g (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work well)
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Butter: 2 tbsp
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Mushrooms: 2 cups, sliced (button, cremini, or portobello)
- Spinach: 2 cups, fresh
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
- Milk: 2 cups (warm)
- Heavy cream: ½ cup (optional, for extra richness)
- Parmesan cheese: 1 cup, grated
- Mozzarella cheese: ½ cup, shredded (optional)
- Nutmeg: A pinch (optional)
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Parsley: Fresh, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until golden and tender (about 5-7 minutes).
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the spinach and cook until wilted. Remove the mixture from the pan and set aside.
- Prepare the White Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in the warm milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Simmer until the sauce thickens (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in the heavy cream (if using), Parmesan cheese, mozzarella (if using), and a pinch of nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta and sautéed vegetables back into the skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
- Serve:
- Transfer the pasta to serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Pasta:
- Fresh ingredients: Use fresh spinach and mushrooms for the best flavor.
- Cheese alternatives: Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
- Add protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for a heartier dish.
This Cheesy Mushroom and Spinach White Sauce Pasta is a delightful balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with the freshness of spinach and the umami of mushrooms. Pair it with garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete meal!
