This Cheesy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet is a real treat! With creamy cheese, sautéed mushrooms, and fresh spinach, it’s bursting with flavor that feels so comforting.
Honestly, it’s like a warm hug in a pan! I love how quick it is to make—perfect for those busy nights when dinner needs to be ready fast. Grab your fork; you’ll want seconds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle is great for this recipe, but any pasta you have on hand will work. You can use penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta shape.
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms add a nice earthy taste, but white button mushrooms are a fine substitute. If you want to switch it up, try using shiitake or portobello for a richer flavor.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach gives great color and texture, but if it’s not available, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding.
Parmesan Cheese: While grated Parmesan is classic for creaminess, Pecorino Romano also works well if you prefer a sharper taste. Nutritional yeast can be a good dairy-free alternative.
Red Pepper Flakes: Feel free to leave these out or reduce them for less heat. Alternatively, you can use fresh or dried jalapeños for a different flavor profile.
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Mushrooms for Maximum Flavor?
Sautéing mushrooms may seem simple, but there’s a technique to get those rich, delicious flavors. Start with a hot skillet and add olive oil. Let the oil heat up before adding the mushrooms. Here’s how to do it:
- Use medium-high heat to begin. This helps to brown the mushrooms nicely.
- Add mushrooms in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding the pan. It lets them brown instead of steam.
- Don’t stir them too often. Let them sit for a minute or two before giving them a gentle toss.
- Cook until they release their liquids and become golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
This method will elevate the mushrooms’ flavor and add depth to your dish. Enjoy creating those tasty, sautéed mushrooms in your pasta!
Cheesy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces farfalle (bowtie) pasta
For the Skillet:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 5 ounces fresh baby spinach
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as oregano or basil)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes of cooking time, making a total of about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. With just one skillet needed, it’s quick to clean up too—perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Don’t forget to reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta, and set everything aside.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms:
In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté the mushrooms for 5-7 minutes until they begin to brown and their moisture is released, creating a nice flavor.
3. Add Garlic and Spices:
Next, sprinkle in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook everything for about 1 minute, stirring often so the garlic doesn’t burn. The aroma will be fantastic!
4. Stir in the Spinach:
Add the fresh baby spinach to the skillet. Keep sautéing for 2-3 minutes until it wilts down. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and the dried Italian herbs if you’re using them. Give it all a good mix!
5. Combine with Pasta:
Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet. Pour in the reserved pasta water and sprinkle that lovely grated Parmesan cheese on top. Stir everything gently over low heat to combine until the pasta is coated, the cheese melts, and it turns creamy and slightly saucy.
6. Final Touch and Serve:
Give the dish a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary—add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you’d like. Serve this warm, topped with extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra kick if you enjoy a bit of heat!
This one-pan meal is not only hearty and comforting but it also brings the amazing umami flavor of mushrooms combined with fresh spinach and cheesy goodness. Enjoy every bite!
FAQs for Cheesy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for farfalle, you can substitute any pasta you have on hand, such as penne, rotini, or even whole wheat pasta. Just adjust the cooking time based on your pasta’s instructions.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano is a great alternative for a sharper flavor. For a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese substitute designed for melting.
How Can I Make This Recipe Creamier?
If you’d like a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a few tablespoons of cream cheese when you combine the pasta and cheese. It will enrich the sauce and make it even more indulgent!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it gets too thick. You can also use the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
