Creamy Spinach & Mushroom Pasta Casserole

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that blends rich creaminess with fresh greens and earthy mushrooms, look no further than this Creamy Spinach & Mushroom Pasta Casserole. It’s the perfect dish to cozy up with on a weeknight or to serve for a casual gathering. With tender pasta enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce, studded with sautéed mushrooms, vibrant spinach, and shredded chicken, it hits all the right flavor notes. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make and packed with wholesome ingredients that will satisfy your taste buds and your tummy.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This casserole is a winner because it combines simple, accessible ingredients with a foolproof cooking method that ensures creamy, melty results every time. The use of cream cheese and chicken broth creates a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta, while the balance of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese adds layers of cheesy flavor and a golden crust when baked. Including fresh spinach and mushrooms not only boosts the nutritional profile but also gives the dish a fresh, earthy dimension. The shredded cooked chicken adds protein, making it a complete meal in one dish. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home cook, this recipe will deliver consistent, delicious results.

What to Buy

• 8 oz pasta – Choose your favorite shape like penne, rotini, or rigatoni for best sauce cling.
• 2 cups fresh spinach – Washed and chopped for freshness and vibrancy.
• 1 cup mushrooms – Button or cremini mushrooms, sliced thinly for easy cooking.
• 1 cup cooked chicken – Shredded, from rotisserie or leftover roasted chicken works great.
• 1 cup cream cheese – Softened to blend easily into the sauce.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese – Shredded for gooey melty goodness.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp, nutty flavor.
• 1 cup chicken broth – Use low sodium for better control over saltiness.
• 2 cloves garlic – Minced to infuse the sauce with aroma.
• 1 tsp onion powder – For a subtle savory depth.
• 1/2 tsp salt – Adjust to taste.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper – Freshly ground if possible.
• 1 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing the garlic and mushrooms.

Before You Start: Equipment

• Large pot – For boiling pasta.
• Large skillet – To sauté mushrooms and garlic.
• Mixing bowl – To combine the creamy sauce ingredients.
• Baking dish – Approximately 9×9 inch or similar size casserole dish.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring ingredients together.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To measure ingredients precisely.

Cooking Creamy Spinach & Mushroom Pasta Casserole: The Process

Step 1: 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. Drain the pasta and set it aside. This step ensures your pasta is perfectly tender but firm enough to hold up in the casserole.

Step 2: Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This step builds a deep, savory flavor base for the dish.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chicken broth, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy. This sauce will coat the pasta and veggies, giving the casserole its signature creaminess.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Vegetables

Add the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and chopped spinach to the skillet or a large mixing bowl. Pour the cream cheese sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated. The fresh spinach will slightly wilt from the heat, adding color and nutrients.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the pasta mixture to your baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly on top. The cheese will melt and form a deliciously golden crust as the casserole bakes.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the casserole set and makes serving easier.

Nutrition-Minded Tweaks

• Swap regular cream cheese for a reduced-fat version to lighten the dish without sacrificing creaminess.
• Use whole wheat or legume-based pasta to increase fiber and protein content.
• Add extra fresh spinach or kale for a veggie boost.
• Replace mozzarella with part-skim mozzarella to reduce fat content.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth to better control the salt level.

Errors to Dodge

• Don’t overcook your pasta in the boiling water; it will continue to cook in the oven and can become mushy.
• Avoid using cold cream cheese straight from the fridge as it won’t blend smoothly into the sauce.
• Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet when sautéing mushrooms; they’ll steam instead of brown.
• Make sure to season the sauce well; bland casseroles are often under-seasoned.
• Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it helps the casserole firm up for easier serving.

Storage Pro Tips

Store leftover Creamy Spinach & Mushroom Pasta Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave or reheat the whole dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the casserole before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed. This dish also freezes well after baking – just cool completely before freezing in portions.

Handy Q&A

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and consider adding more mushrooms, or swap in a plant-based protein like chickpeas or a vegetarian chicken substitute. This will keep the dish hearty and satisfying.

What pasta shapes work best for this recipe?

Pasta shapes that hold sauce well, such as penne, rotini, or rigatoni, work best. Their ridges and tubes catch the creamy sauce beautifully, giving you every bite packed with flavor.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil and bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add a kick, stir in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the cream cheese sauce before combining everything. You can also sprinkle a little cayenne pepper over the top before baking.

Keep Cooking

• For a delightful twist on creamy greens and pasta, try Cheesy Spinach Alfredo Tortellini, which offers a rich and cheesy sauce with a tender pasta shell.
• If you love stuffed pasta dishes, you’ll adore these Spinach And Ricotta Stuffed Shells that combine fresh spinach and creamy ricotta in every bite.
• Craving more creamy pasta with vibrant greens? Whip up the Spinach Artichoke Alfredo Pasta for a luscious, crowd-pleasing dinner.

Bring It Home

This Creamy Spinach & Mushroom Pasta Casserole is truly a comforting classic that marries creamy sauce with fresh vegetables and tender chicken. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit your tastes and dietary preferences, making it a perfect staple for your weekly meal rotation. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this casserole will be a hit thanks to its rich flavors and satisfying texture. From the first forkful, you’ll appreciate how effortless it is to create a dish that feels indulgent yet nourishing. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of making this delicious casserole your own.

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