This Easy Cheesy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet is a warm hug in a bowl! It combines creamy cheese, tender mushrooms, and fresh spinach, making it so comforting and delicious.
You can’t go wrong with a one-pan meal! I love how quick it is to whip up—perfect for busy nights when I want something tasty without the fuss. 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle, or bowtie pasta, is perfect for this dish, but you can easily swap it for penne, fusilli, or even whole grain options if you prefer something different.
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms add rich flavor, but you could use white button mushrooms or even portobello mushrooms for a meaty texture. If you’re trying to avoid mushrooms, zucchini or eggplant could work as substitutes.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach is ideal for its quick wilting, but you can also use kale. Just chop it finely and cook it a bit longer to make it tender. Frozen spinach can be used in a pinch; just thaw and squeeze out extra water.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a lovely salty bite. If you can’t find it, try Pecorino Romano or even a vegan Parmesan for a dairy-free option. Just know that flavor may vary!
How Do You Ensure the Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta al dente is key for this dish, giving it a nice bite while avoiding mushiness. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use a large pot of salted water. It should taste like the sea!
- Follow package instructions but check for doneness a minute early.
- To test, bite into a piece; it should be firm with a bit of chew.
- Always reserve that 1/4 cup of pasta water! It’s great for adjusting consistency in the sauce.
Easy Cheesy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces farfalle (bowtie) pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fantastic pasta skillet takes about 20 minutes in total—10 minutes to prep and cook the pasta and 10 more to whip up the delicious sauce with the veggies. It’s a quick, one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by cooking the farfalle pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—meaning it’s cooked but still has a little bite. Remember to reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water for later, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sautéing the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant but not browned. This step is crucial because garlic can burn easily and turn bitter!
3. Cooking the Mushrooms:
Now, add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are nicely browned and tender. This will bring out their delicious flavor.
4. Adding the Spinach:
Next, toss in the fresh spinach along with the crushed red pepper flakes. Cook while stirring for 2-3 minutes, until the spinach is wilted. At this point, your kitchen will smell amazing!
5. Mixing Everything Together:
It’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss everything gently to combine, and make sure it’s heated through.
6. Finishing Touches:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and everything is well mixed. The cheese will make the dish creamy and rich!
7. Season and Serve:
Give it a taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. Serve warm, and enjoy every cheesy, savory bite of your pasta skillet!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle is a great choice, you can substitute it with any pasta you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or even whole wheat options. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package directions!
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, you can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. For a dairy-free option, try using a vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast, which can add a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
How To Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to help loosen the sauce if needed!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli. Just make sure to cook them until tender along with the mushrooms to keep everything well-integrated in the dish.
