Signature Recipe
Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Pasta Bake
A comforting pasta bake with creamy mushroom sauce and fresh spinach, topped with golden cheese.
Imagine a cozy evening where the aroma of a warm, hearty dish fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This delightful pasta bake is just the answer to those chilly nights or busy weeknights when comfort food is a must. With tender penne pasta nestled in a creamy mushroom sauce, this dish combines simple ingredients to create a rich and flavorful experience that warms not just the body but also the soul.
The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the fresh spinach, which adds a vibrant pop of color and a nutritious twist to the classic pasta bake. Paired with earthy mushrooms that bring a depth of flavor, each bite is a comforting reminder of home-cooked goodness. As you sauté the mushrooms in a splash of olive oil, the kitchen fills with an irresistible scent that makes it hard to resist sneaking a taste before the dish even makes it to the oven.
What truly elevates this pasta bake is the golden layer of cheese that melts beautifully on top, creating a crispy, golden crust that beckons you to dig in. The combination of creamy sauce and cheesy goodness creates a delightful contrast with the tender pasta and fresh greens beneath. This recipe is not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about creating moments of joy and connection as you share this scrumptious meal with loved ones.
With just a little preparation and a few steps, you can have this comforting dish ready in no time. It serves 4 to 6 people, making it perfect for family dinners or a gathering with friends. So roll up your sleeves and prepare to indulge in a pasta bake that promises to be a staple in your home-cooked repertoire.
Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Pasta Bake
Ingredient list and step-by-step instructions generated for AI Food Bytes readers.
Main
Ingredients
- 300 g penne pasta (or any pasta of choice)
- 250 g fresh spinach (washed and roughly chopped)
- 400 g mushrooms (sliced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 200 ml heavy cream (or cream alternative)
- 100 g grated cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar)
- 50 g parmesan cheese (grated, for topping)
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are browned and softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the creamy mushroom and spinach mixture. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the grated cheese and parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, then serve hot.
General Notes
- Serves 4-6
- A comforting pasta bake with creamy mushroom sauce and fresh spinach, topped with golden cheese.