1-First Step: Cooking the Pasta Start by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add your 8 ounces of pasta and cook according to package directions until it’s just 1 minute shy of al dente. This timing is crucial because the pasta will continue to cook when we add it to our sauce later. Before draining, remember to reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water this liquid gold is essential for creating a silky sauce that clings perfectly to every noodle! Drain the pasta and set it aside while we prepare the rest of our components.

2-Second Step: Sautéing the Mushrooms While your pasta is cooking, place a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat and add the 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add your 16 ounces of sliced baby bella mushrooms in a single layer. Here’s a pro tip: resist the urge to stir them immediately! Let the mushrooms sauté undisturbed for 6-8 minutes until they develop a deep, golden-brown color on one side. This browing process is where the mushrooms develop their incredible umami flavor that makes this dish so special. After the initial browning, stir occasionally until all sides are beautifully caramelized.

3-Third Step: Building the Flavor Base Once your mushrooms are perfectly browned, add the 5 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of finely-chopped fresh rosemary, and ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the pan. Stir constantly and sauté for about 2 minutes until the mixture becomes fragrant and your kitchen is filled with incredible aromas. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can become bitter. This flavor base is what gives our creamy tuna mushroom pasta its distinctive character and depth.

4-Fourth Step: Creating the Creamy Sauce Now it’s time to create that luxurious sauce that makes this dish so irresistible. Pour in ½ cup of heavy whipping cream (if using), followed by ½ cup of freshly-grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice from your small lemon, and the lemon zest. Stir in ¼ cup of that precious starchy pasta water you reserved earlier. Keep stirring constantly until the cheese melts completely and the sauce begins to thicken slightly. Variation Option: If you prefer a different creamy base or want to use what’s in your pantry, omit the heavy cream. Instead, stir in 1 cup of condensed mushroom soup and ½ cup milk (or additional reserved pasta water). Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring until smooth. Then add the Parmesan and optional cheddar cheese, stirring until melted. This pantry-friendly version creates an equally delicious creamy sauce with a different flavor profile.

5-Fifth Step: Adding the Final Ingredients Add 2 large handfuls of fresh baby spinach and the drained tuna from 2 (5-ounce) cans to the pan. The spinach will seem like a lot at first, but it wilts down significantly. Now add your drained pasta to the pan. Using tongs or a large spoon, toss everything together vigorously until the spinach wilts and the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.

6-Sixth Step: Adjusting Consistency and Adding Optional Ingredients At this point, check the consistency of your sauce. If it seems too dry, gradually add more of the reserved pasta water (up to the remaining ¾ cup) until it reaches your desired creamy consistency. This is also the time to add any optional frozen peas and/or corn if you’re using them. Continue tossing for 1-2 minutes until these additions are heated through.

7-Seventh Step: Seasoning and Serving Season your creation generously with fine sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper to taste. Remember to taste as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly. Serve your creamy tuna mushroom pasta warm, topped with additional Parmesan cheese and black pepper at the table. For extra texture and flavor, sprinkle with crushed croutons, crackers, or potato chips if desired. For a beautiful presentation, consider garnishing with additional fresh rosemary sprigs or a light dusting of lemon zest to bring out those bright flavors even more!