This Easy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet is a winner! With creamy parmesan, fresh spinach, and tasty mushrooms, it’s a dish that feels cozy yet quick to make.
Making this pasta always makes me feel like a chef! Plus, it’s one of those meals that makes cleaning your plate feel like a victory. Who can say no to cheesy goodness? 😄
I love how I can whip this up in no time after a busy day! Just toss everything in a skillet, and it’s ready to enjoy. It’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Farfalle Pasta: This pasta shape is fun to eat, but you can switch it up! Try penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta if that’s your preference. Each will still work great in this dish.
Mushrooms: I love using cremini mushrooms for their rich flavor. However, you can use white button mushrooms or even shiitake for a different taste. If you’re not a mushroom fan, consider zucchini or bell peppers instead.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is the star here! If it’s not available, you could use kale or frozen spinach (just thaw and drain it first). I find that the fresh version keeps everything light and vibrant.
Parmesan Cheese: While parmesan adds a lovely creaminess, you can substitute it with pecorino or nutritional yeast if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. Personally, I can’t resist authentic Parmesan!
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Garlic and Mushrooms?
Getting the sautéing just right is key to perfect flavor! Start by heating olive oil over medium heat. When adding garlic, keep an eye on it; it can burn quickly.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until aromatic—don’t go overboard!
- Then, add your sliced mushrooms. Stir occasionally, letting them take on a nice golden color for about 5-7 minutes. This brings out their depth!
The goal is to achieve tenderness without sogginess. Trust me, these steps will give you deliciously cooked mushrooms that elevate your dish!
Easy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) farfalle pasta (bowtie pasta)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (cremini or white button mushrooms)
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta skillet takes around 20 minutes to make! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and cooking the pasta, and another 10 minutes sautéing the vegetables and combining everything. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (tender but still firm). Before draining, make sure to reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water. Then, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Heat the Skillet:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until you start to smell that delicious garlic aroma, but be careful not to burn it!
3. Cooking the Mushrooms:
Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and are nicely browned. This step really enhances their flavor!
4. Wilt the Spinach:
Now it’s time to add the fresh spinach and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until the spinach wilts down. It’ll look vibrant and colorful!
5. Combine and Season:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Carefully pour in a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to help combine everything and create a light sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, mixing it all well.
6. Add the Parmesan:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta mixture. Toss it all gently to combine and melt the cheese into the pasta, creating that creamy texture we love!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is mixed and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve immediately, either plain or garnished with extra Parmesan or red pepper flakes for that extra kick. Enjoy this quick and healthy skillet meal that’s bursting with flavor from the mushrooms, fresh spinach, and creamy Parmesan!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great alternative for added fiber. If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free pasta made from rice or quinoa. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary from regular pasta!
How Can I Make This Dish Creamier?
If you prefer a creamier sauce, try adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese. Both options enhance richness without overwhelming the dish. Just stir it in with the Parmesan for that silky texture!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist, and gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! This dish is very versatile. Feel free to add in other veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or peas. Just sauté them along with the mushrooms, adjusting the cooking time as needed!
