This simple skillet pasta combines creamy parmesan with fresh spinach and tasty mushrooms. It’s fast to make and packed with flavor, making it a perfect weeknight meal!
I really love how quick this dish is to whip up! Just toss everything in one pan and dinner is served. Plus, who can resist that cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Farfalle Pasta: While I love farfalle for its fun shape, you can use other pasta like penne or fusilli if you have those on hand. Just adjust cooking times according to the package instructions.
Mushrooms: Button or cremini mushrooms work great here. However, if you can’t find these, you can substitute with shiitake or even canned mushrooms in a pinch. Just keep in mind that canned mushrooms won’t have the same texture.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is ideal for this recipe, but you can use frozen spinach as a substitute. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to avoid making the dish soggy.
Parmesan Cheese: I always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor. If you don’t have any, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can work, too. For a vegetarian option, you might try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Do You Perfectly Sauté Mushrooms?
Sautéing mushrooms right can make all the difference! Here’s how to do it properly:
- Start with a hot skillet and add olive oil. Make sure it’s hot enough so the oil shimmers.
- Add the mushrooms in a single layer; don’t overcrowd the pan. If they’re packed, they’ll steam instead of sauté.
- Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes so they get a nice golden brown color.
- Stir occasionally until tender, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. This draws out their flavors!
By getting a good sear on the mushrooms, you’ll enhance their flavor and give your dish a delicious depth. Enjoy your cooking process! 🌟
Easy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Base:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) farfalle (bowtie) pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Veggies:
- 3 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach
Flavor and Garnish:
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup pasta cooking water, reserved
How Much Time Will You Need?
This quick and tasty dish takes about 20 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 10 cooking everything. Perfect for a busy weeknight meal!
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. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and warm it until it shimmers. Then, toss in the sliced mushrooms. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and tender.
3. Add Garlic and Spinach:
Next, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using. Cook for another minute until the garlic becomes fragrant. Then, add in the fresh spinach and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts—this should only take a couple of minutes!
4. Combine Pasta and Cheese:
Now, gently add the cooked farfalle pasta to the skillet with the mushrooms and spinach. Gradually pour in some of the reserved pasta cooking water to help loosen everything up. Stir well to combine! Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top and mix until it’s melted and the pasta is evenly coated.
5. Season and Serve:
Finally, season the dish with salt and lots of freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve your delicious pasta skillet immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and more red pepper flakes if desired.
Enjoy your comforting, cheesy, and vibrant Parmesan spinach mushroom pasta skillet! It’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table! 🍝✨
FAQ for Easy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Can I Use Different Pasta for This Dish?
Absolutely! While farfalle is delightful, you can easily substitute it with other pasta types like penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Just keep in mind to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for each type.
Is It Possible to Add Protein to This Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed tofu for a boost of protein. If adding raw chicken or shrimp, cook it first in the skillet before adding the mushrooms and continue with the rest of the recipe.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or extra olive oil to keep it from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, just ensure that the Parmesan cheese is rennet-free. For a vegan version, you can substitute the cheese with nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative for a similar flavor profile!
