Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz dried short pasta (such as penne or rotini)
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are browned and tender. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 2: Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the dried pasta and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a rapid boil, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
- Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed, forming a thickened sauce.
- Step 4: Remove the lid. Stir in the heavy cream and the fresh spinach. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spinach wilts down completely and the sauce is fully warmed through and creamy.
- Step 5: Taste the sauce and pasta; season generously with salt, pepper, and optionally, a pinch of Italian seasoning before serving immediately.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, keeping in mind that the pasta will continue to absorb the sauce and the dish will thicken significantly.
- When reheating refrigerated leftovers, always add 1-2 tablespoons of milk or chicken broth to the skillet to loosen the sauce and restore the luxurious, creamy texture.
- For an ideal serving presentation, top the warm pasta with freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese and a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
- Chef's Tip: To achieve maximum flavor from your mushrooms, sauté them in Step 1 until deeply browned and slightly caramelized—this deep color is essential for building the savory foundation of the dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American