Description
Hearty Mushroom and Spinach Spaghetti
Ingredients
12 oz spaghetti
1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
2 cups fresh spinach
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Directions
Cook the Pasta:
Boil spaghetti in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Brown the Meat:
Add ground beef or sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
Cook the Veggies:
Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté until tender. Toss in the spinach and let it wilt.
Make the Sauce:
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to blend flavors.
Combine:
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss until evenly coated with the sauce.
Serve:
Plate the pasta, garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese, and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 420 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof dinner. First, gather all ingredients (mise en place) to streamline cooking. Start boiling a large pot of heavily salted water for the pasta. While it heats, begin sautéing the onion in olive oil in your large skillet. Once the water boils, add the spaghetti and cook, stirring occasionally. As the pasta cooks, proceed with browning the meat and cooking the mushrooms and spinach in the skillet. Time it so the sauce simmers for its full 10 minutes; the pasta should be done around the same time. Reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. When combining, add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce and toss vigorously, adding a splash of pasta water if needed to create a glossy, cohesive sauce that clings to each strand.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty pasta is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette and a slice of crusty garlic bread. For a lighter option, serve it alongside roasted asparagus or broccoli. A medium-bodied red wine like a Chianti or Sangiovese complements the rich tomato and meat sauce perfectly.
How-to Summary
In summary, this dish comes together by cooking spaghetti al dente, then creating a robust sauce by sautéing onion, garlic, meat, mushrooms, and spinach before simmering with crushed tomatoes and herbs. The final step is combining the pasta and sauce in the skillet for maximum flavor integration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this vegetarian? Absolutely. Omit the ground meat and use a plant-based ground alternative, or add an extra 8 oz of mushrooms and a can of rinsed lentils for a hearty, meat-free version.
How can I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a small splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, or microwave covered, stirring halfway through.
What’s the best way to slice the mushrooms? For even cooking, slice mushrooms to a consistent thickness, about 1/4-inch. Wipe them clean with a damp paper towel instead of rinsing to prevent them from becoming waterlogged.
Can I use a different pasta shape? Yes. Rigatoni, fettuccine, or penne are excellent alternatives. Adjust cooking time according to the package instructions for your chosen shape.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together after draining? Tossing it immediately with the sauce is the best method. If you must hold it briefly, toss the drained pasta with a teaspoon of olive oil.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results: Do not undersalt your pasta water—it should taste like the sea. Do not overcrowd the skillet when browning the meat; cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning, not steaming. Do not add raw garlic to a very hot pan, as it will burn and turn bitter; add it after the onion has softened. Finally, do not rinse your cooked pasta, as this washes away the starch essential for helping the sauce adhere.
Conclusion
This Hearty Mushroom and Spinach Spaghetti is a versatile, satisfying dish that proves a delicious, comforting meal can be on the table in about 30 minutes. Its balance of protein, vegetables, and carbs makes it a reliable weeknight winner. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common errors, you’ll master a flavorful pasta dish that is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.