This Easy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet is a warm hug in a bowl! With creamy Parmesan, fresh spinach, and tasty mushrooms, it’s a simple yet delicious meal ready in no time.
You can’t go wrong with one-pan meals! Clean-up is a breeze, and I love how all the flavors come together so nicely. Plus, who doesn’t love carbs topped with cheese? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Bow tie (farfalle) pasta is fun and holds sauce well. You can swap it for any pasta shape like penne, fusilli, or whole wheat if you prefer a healthier option.
Mushrooms: I used button mushrooms, but you could try cremini or shiitake for extra flavor! If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, zucchini or bell peppers can work as tasty alternatives.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is ideal for this recipe. If it’s not available, frozen spinach works too! Just thaw and drain it before adding. You can even use kale for a little more texture.
Cheese: Parmesan brings a nice salty, nutty flavor, but any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can substitute. Nutritional yeast is great for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Cook the Pasta Perfectly?
Cooking pasta might seem easy, but getting it just right sets the foundation for this dish. Properly cooked pasta elevates the whole meal!
- Start with a big pot of salted water – it should taste like the sea! This enhances the pasta’s flavor.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the pasta.
- Stir occasionally, and keep an eye on the clock to avoid overcooking. Follow the package instructions for the perfect al dente texture.
- When it’s ready, don’t forget to reserve that 1/4 cup of water—it’s liquid gold for adjusting the sauce later!
Easy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (about 2 1/2 cups) bow tie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta skillet dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying! Plus, clean-up is a breeze since it’s all made in one skillet. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a generous amount of salt. Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until it is al dente, which usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta but save about 1/4 cup of the cooking water for later. Set the pasta aside.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
3. Cooking Mushrooms and Spinach:
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are cooked through and golden brown. After that, toss in the fresh spinach and red pepper flakes. Stir and cook until the spinach has wilted, which should take just a couple of minutes.
4. Combining Everything:
Now, add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss everything together to combine well. Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top and stir until melted and well mixed. If it looks too dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to help loosen it up.
5. Season and Serve:
Season the pasta with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Serve immediately, and feel free to garnish with extra Parmesan or red pepper flakes if you like a bit more heat!
Enjoy your delicious and easy one-skillet meal!
FAQ for Easy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While bow tie pasta (farfalle) works great, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta for a different dietary choice.
How Do I Make This Dish Creamier?
If you want a creamier pasta, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a bit of cream cheese along with the Parmesan cheese. This will give it a rich, creamy texture that complements the spinach and mushrooms beautifully!
What if I Have Leftovers? How Should I Store Them?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture as it reheats.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even sun-dried tomatoes. Just sauté them along with the onions for a delicious mix!
