Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Rigatoni

If you’re searching for a comforting yet elegant pasta dish, look no further than this Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Rigatoni. It’s the perfect marriage of tender rigatoni pasta enveloped in a luscious, velvety cream sauce loaded with earthy mushrooms and vibrant spinach. Every bite is a celebration of rich flavors and satisfying textures, making it an ideal meal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to prepare and comes together in under 30 minutes, which means you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your plate.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Rigatoni recipe has quickly become a favorite for many home cooks because it strikes the perfect balance of indulgence and wholesomeness. The cream sauce is rich without being overpowering, and the mushrooms add a deep, savory umami flavor that complements the fresh spinach beautifully. It’s versatile too — you can easily customize it by adding protein or swapping ingredients based on what you have on hand.

What sets this dish apart is its simplicity; a few pantry staples and fresh veggies come together to create something truly special. The rigatoni’s ridges hold onto the sauce perfectly, ensuring every forkful is coated in creamy goodness. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe is straightforward, reliable, and delivers consistent results every time.

Ingredient Notes

• Rigatoni Pasta (12 ounces): This pasta’s tube shape and ridged surface make it ideal for holding onto creamy sauces. You can substitute with penne or ziti if preferred.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for sautéing the onions and mushrooms to add a subtle fruity flavor.
• Onion (1 small, diced): Yellow or white onion works best to add sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic is essential for that aromatic punch. Avoid pre-minced garlic as it lacks freshness.
• Mushrooms (8 ounces, sliced): Cremini or white button mushrooms provide earthiness. You can also mix in shiitake or portobello for more robust flavor.
• Fresh Spinach (2 cups): Baby spinach is preferred for its tender leaves and mild taste, but regular spinach works well too.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup): This creates the creamy base of the sauce. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be as rich.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a savory, nutty flavor that enriches the sauce. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste.
• Salt and Pepper: Adjust to taste to enhance all the flavors.
• Fresh Parsley, chopped: For garnish, adding a burst of color and freshness to the finished dish.

Before You Start: Equipment

• Large pot: For boiling the rigatoni pasta.
• Large skillet or sauté pan: To cook the onion, mushrooms, spinach, and prepare the creamy sauce.
• Colander: To drain the pasta.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Knife and cutting board: For chopping onions, garlic, and parsley.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure precise ingredient amounts.

Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Rigatoni: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Once cooked, reserve about a cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta in a colander. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure it doesn’t brown or burn.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and become golden brown, roughly 6-8 minutes. This step is crucial because it builds the deep umami flavor that defines the dish.

Step 4: Wilt the Spinach

Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until just wilted, about 1-2 minutes. The spinach will reduce significantly in volume, so don’t worry if it seems like a lot at first.

Step 5: Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine everything. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked rigatoni pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy mushroom and spinach sauce. Toss everything together over low heat to ensure the pasta is evenly coated and warmed through. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side if desired.

Holiday-Friendly Variations

• Add cooked, shredded chicken or sautéed shrimp for an extra protein boost, turning it into a hearty main course.
• Swap out the Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier flavor that pairs beautifully with mushrooms.
• Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to add a tangy and sweet contrast to the creamy sauce.
• For a cheesy twist, stir in some mozzarella or fontina cheese for a gooey finish.
• Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic for a subtle kick of heat.

If You’re Curious

This recipe shares some comforting qualities with the Creamy Mushroom Chicken Skillet, especially in how mushrooms are used to build a rich sauce base. If you love spinach in your dishes, you might also enjoy the luscious Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Dip, which makes for a perfect appetizer alongside this pasta.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat and add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Cook the pasta fresh when serving for the best texture, but if you have leftovers, store the combined dish in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Rigatoni FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is ideal because its ridges hold onto the sauce well, other tubular pastas like penne, ziti, or even fusilli will work beautifully. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind this will slightly alter the flavor but still provide a creamy texture.

How can I make this dish more filling?

Adding cooked protein such as grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy tofu cubes will make this dish heartier. You could also toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added texture and nutrients.

Can I freeze leftover Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Rigatoni?

Freezing cream-based pasta dishes is generally not recommended as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy leftovers refrigerated within a few days for optimal taste and texture.

Our Most-Loved Recipes

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• Easy Homemade Pesto – A fresh, vibrant sauce that livens up any pasta or sandwich.

Time to Try It

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to bring this Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Rigatoni to life in your kitchen. Gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and treat yourself to a bowl of pure comfort. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend meal, this dish promises satisfaction in every bite. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley and maybe a little extra Parmesan for that final flourish. Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor the delicious results!

This recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy the earthy flavors of mushrooms combined with the freshness of spinach, all wrapped in a creamy, cheesy sauce that clings to perfectly cooked rigatoni. It’s simple, elegant, and destined to become a staple in your recipe collection.

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