This Easy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet is a comforting dish that brings together tender pasta, fresh spinach, and delicious mushrooms, all coated in creamy parmesan. Yum!
I love how quick this meal is to whip up! Just toss everything in one skillet, and dinner is ready in no time. It’s perfect for busy nights or when I just want something tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Farfalle Pasta: This bowtie pasta is fun to eat and grabs sauce well. If you don’t have farfalle, any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or shell pasta works great too!
Mushrooms: I prefer cremini for their deeper flavor, but white mushrooms are just fine. If mushrooms aren’t your thing, try zucchini or bell peppers for a different twist.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach adds a lovely color and nutrition. If fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach; just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan has the best flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
How Do You Ensure Creamy Pasta Sauce?
Getting that perfect creamy sauce is easier than you think! The key is to use enough cooking liquid and let the pasta absorb it while cooking. Here’s how to do it right:
- Keep the skillet on medium heat and ensure the broth is at a gentle boil before adding the pasta.
- Stir the pasta every few minutes, and when it gets close to being done, check if there’s enough liquid left.
- If it looks dry, add a little more broth or water. The starch from the pasta will help create that creamy sauce as you mix in the cheese!
For an extra creamy texture, finish with butter and let it melt in the warm pasta before serving.
Easy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (about 2 ½ cups) farfalle pasta (bowtie pasta)
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini)
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
For Adding Flavor:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Cooking the Pasta:
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth (for cooking pasta and making a light sauce)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon butter for extra richness
Time Needed:
This delicious dish takes about 25-30 minutes in total—10 minutes for preparation and around 15-20 minutes for cooking. A simple and rewarding meal that you can whip up quickly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until it becomes softened and translucent. This step forms the flavorful base of your dish!
2. Add Garlic and Spices:
Next, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Cook for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook them while stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender and lightly browned. This will bring out their rich flavor!
4. Cook the Pasta:
Now, pour in the broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Add the farfalle pasta directly into the skillet. Cook according to the package instructions until the pasta is al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally and add more broth or water if needed to keep everything cooking smoothly.
5. Stir in the Spinach:
Once the pasta is cooked and the liquid is mostly absorbed, stir in the fresh spinach. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the spinach has wilted. This makes the dish vibrant and full of nutrients!
6. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and butter (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. The warmth of the pasta will help melt the cheese, creating a creamy texture.
7. Combine and Serve:
Toss everything together until the ingredients are well combined and the cheese is melted and coating the pasta. Serve immediately and garnish with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a delicious kick!
This Easy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet is a wonderful, creamy dish bursting with flavor, all made in one pan for quick clean-up! Enjoy your delightful meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead of Farfalle?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great substitute that will add more fiber to the dish. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so follow the package instructions for best results.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this dish vegan, substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast or a store-bought vegan cheese. You can also skip the butter or use a plant-based butter substitute for extra richness.
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to bring moisture back to the dish and prevent it from drying out.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli to enhance the flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the mushrooms to ensure everything cooks evenly.
