One Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Spinach and Mushrooms

Here is the recipe for One Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Spinach and Mushrooms:

**Servings:** 4-6

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup mixed mushrooms (e.g., button, cremini, and shiitake), sliced
* 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
* 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly shredded is best)
* 1/2 cup chicken broth
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* Optional: red pepper flakes for some heat, chopped fresh parsley for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. **Step 1: Cook the pasta**
* Bring a large pot (at least 12-inch diameter) to medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and swirl it around to coat the bottom.
* Add the pasta and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until the pasta is lightly toasted.
* Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
2. **Step 2: Prepare the mushroom and garlic mixture**
* In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
* Add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes or until they release their moisture and start browning.
* Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
3. **Step 3: Add the mushroom and garlic mixture to the pasta**
* Add the cooked mushroom and garlic mixture to the large pot with the pasta. Stir to combine.
4. **Step 4: Add the spinach and Parmesan cheese**
* Add the fresh spinach leaves to the pot and stir until wilted.
* Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir until melted and well combined.
5. **Step 5: Add the heavy cream (optional)**
* If using heavy cream, stir it in to create a creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. **Step 6: Serve**
* Transfer the one-pot pasta dish to a serving platter or individual plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Use different types of pasta, such as spaghetti or linguine, for a different texture.
* Substitute other leafy greens, like kale or arugula, for the spinach.
* Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage to make the dish more substantial.
* Use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella, ricotta, or provolone, for a different flavor profile.
* Add some dried oregano, basil, or thyme for extra Italian flair.
* For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken broth and use vegetable broth instead.
* To make it a vegan version, omit the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream, and use a vegan substitute like nutritional yeast or cashew cream.

**Correct Cooking Techniques:**

* Use a large pot to ensure the pasta cooks evenly and there's enough room for the mushroom and garlic mixture to cook without overflowing.
* Stir the pasta constantly when it's cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
* Don't overcook the pasta; al dente is the perfect texture for one-pot pasta dishes.
* Cook the mushrooms and garlic mixture until they're lightly browned to bring out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
* Be gentle when adding the spinach and Parmesan cheese to avoid breaking the pasta and creating a mushy texture.
* Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to ensure the dish is balanced and flavorful.

This recipe makes a delicious and satisfying one-pot pasta dish with a creamy garlic sauce, tender mushrooms, and wilted spinach. The Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the dish perfectly. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and variations to make it your own!

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