This Easy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet is a tasty blend of creamy cheese, fresh spinach, and savory mushrooms. It’s a quick, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used farfalle, but feel free to swap it with any pasta shape you like, such as penne or fusilli. Whole grain or gluten-free pasta also work well if you’re looking for healthier options.
Mushrooms: White or cremini mushrooms are fantastic, but you can use any type. For a deeper flavor, shiitake or portobello mushrooms are good alternatives.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is a must for this dish, but you can substitute it with kale or Swiss chard if you have them on hand. Just ensure they’re cooked until tender.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds great flavor. If you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, nutritional yeast is a good substitute for that cheesy flavor.
How Can I Achieve the Best Flavor in Just One Skillet?
The key to maximizing flavor in this dish lies in the cooking order and techniques. Start by sautéing the garlic in olive oil, which builds a flavorful base. Here’s how to get it right:
- Use medium heat to avoid burning the garlic—it should become fragrant, not browned.
- Cook the mushrooms until they’re browned, bringing out their umami. The more you brown them, the more flavor they’ll impart.
- Wilting the spinach takes just a couple of minutes. Keep it green and vibrant; overcooking can make it mushy.
- Deploy reserved pasta water as needed; it helps create a creamy sauce without adding extra fat.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure that every bite is packed with flavor and texture!
Easy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz farfalle (bow-tie) pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini)
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take around 20 minutes in total. You will spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and 10 minutes sautéing the vegetables and combining everything together. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of salted water, then add the farfalle pasta. Cook according to the package directions until it’s al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Once cooked, drain the pasta, but be sure to save about 1/4 cup of the cooking water for later. Set the drained pasta aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Be careful not to let it brown; you just want it to become fragrant.
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Stir occasionally and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender and browned. This step enhances their flavor and makes them delicious!
4. Add Seasonings:
Sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes as well as salt and black pepper to taste. Stir everything together to combine the flavors well.
5. Wilt the Spinach:
Next, add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the spinach is wilted. This will add a lovely color and nutritional boost to your dish!
6. Combine with Pasta:
Now it’s time to bring it all together. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the veggies. Toss everything together, adding in a bit of the reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the mixture and create a lovely sauce.
7. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and gently toss to combine. Keep tossing until the cheese is melted and evenly mixed throughout the dish.
8. Final Touches:
Give the dish a final taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little extra kick.
9. Serve:
Serve your delicious pasta skillet right away! You can garnish with additional Parmesan cheese on top if you desire. Enjoy your meal!
This simple one-skillet dish combines tender pasta, earthy mushrooms, fresh spinach, and the savory flavor of Parmesan cheese for a quick and satisfying meal.
FAQ for Easy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, while gluten-free pasta options like brown rice or chickpea pasta will work well too. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best results.
How Can I Make This Dish Creamier?
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half after adding the pasta. You can also stir in some cream cheese or ricotta cheese for added richness!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes. Just ensure they are cooked until tender before adding the spinach.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove with a splash of water or broth to help revive the sauce. You can also microwave it, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
