This Easy Cheesy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet is a dream come true for pasta lovers! Imagine tender pasta mixed with creamy cheese, fresh spinach, and flavorful mushrooms in one pan!
I love how quick and easy it is to whip up on busy nights. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, which means less cleaning! Who doesn’t love that? 🍝✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Bowtie pasta (farfalle) adds a fun shape to this dish. If you don’t have it, you can use any pasta you like! Penne or fusilli work great too!
Mushrooms: I usually use cremini mushrooms for their deep flavor, but any mushrooms like button or portobello will also be delicious. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, just skip the meat in other recipes.
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a nice color and nutrients. You can substitute it with kale, or even frozen spinach (just make sure to thaw and drain it first).
Cheese: Parmesan cheese is best here for that cheesy flavor. However, if you need a substitute, look for Pecorino Romano or a store-bought Italian cheese blend. Nutritional yeast can also give a cheesy flavor for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Mushrooms?
Cooking mushrooms can be tricky since they release moisture while cooking. To get them golden and flavorful, follow these steps:
- Start with a hot skillet to quickly sear the mushrooms. This prevents them from becoming soggy.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you add too many mushrooms at once, they’ll steam instead of brown. Cook them in batches if needed!
- Allow them to cook without stirring for a minute or two, then stir and let them brown on the other side. It helps to build that savory flavor.
By following these tips, you’ll get perfectly sautéed mushrooms that add great depth to your pasta dish!
Easy Cheesy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (about 2 1/2 cups) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes of preparation and 10 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick and easy meal that you can have ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package directions until it is al dente (usually around 8-10 minutes). Once cooked, drain the pasta but make sure to save about one cup of the pasta water. Set the drained pasta aside for later.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Season them with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook the mushrooms for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they have softened and released their moisture. They should be lightly browned by the time you’re done.
4. Add the Spinach:
Next, toss in the fresh spinach. Stir it into the mushrooms and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is just wilted.
5. Combine the Ingredients:
Now, add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet. Sprinkle the red pepper flakes over the mixture and stir everything together. This is where the flavors start to combine!
6. Create a Creamy Sauce:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese and about half a cup of the reserved pasta water to the pan. Stir well to mix everything, allowing the cheese to melt and create a nice, light creamy sauce. If the pasta seems dry, add more reserved pasta water until you reach your desired sauciness.
7. Final Touches:
Give the pasta a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you like it spicier.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the pasta hot, right from the skillet, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy this delightful, cheesy dish filled with flavor!
Bon appétit! 🍽️
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds a nutty flavor and is a healthier alternative. If you’re using gluten-free pasta, make sure to check the cooking times on the package, as they can vary. Just follow the same steps for cooking and combining!
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, you can use Pecorino Romano for a similar flavor. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast gives a cheesy taste without the lactose, or try using a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well.
Can I Add More Veggies to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes. Just sauté them along with the mushrooms, adjusting cooking times as needed so everything is tender and flavorful.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to bring back the creaminess.
