This Easy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet is a quick and tasty dish! It combines tender pasta, fresh spinach, and delicious mushrooms, all topped with cheesy Parmesan goodness.
You know what I love? This meal is ready in no time! It makes a perfect weeknight dinner, and you’ll enjoy every mouthful. Plus, it’s one-pan, which means less cleanup for me! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle is great for this dish because its shape holds onto the sauce well. However, you can use any pasta you have on hand, such as penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti.
Mushrooms: I recommend white or cremini mushrooms for their mild flavor. If you prefer something more robust, try shiitake or portobello mushrooms instead. Canned mushrooms work too if you’re in a pinch!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a lovely green color and nutty flavor. If fresh isn’t available, frozen spinach can be used. Just thaw and squeeze out excess water first.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan brings a nutty richness to the dish. If you need a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor substitute.
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a gentle heat, but you can totally skip them if you want a milder dish. For a different kick, try adding freshly cracked black pepper or a pinch of cayenne instead.
How Do I Sauté Mushrooms Without Making Them Soggy?
When sautéing mushrooms, it’s essential to give them room to cook evenly and develop a nice browning. Follow these simple steps:
- Make sure your skillet is preheated before adding the mushrooms. This helps them brown better.
- Add mushrooms in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan! If you have a lot, cook them in batches.
- Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes, then stir. This allows them to release their moisture and caramelize.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll have perfectly sautéed mushrooms every time!
Easy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (about 2 1/2 cups) farfalle (bowtie) pasta
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
Optional:
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or zest for brightness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and sautéing the veggies, plus time to toss everything together and serve. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights!
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 and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (tender but slightly firm to the bite). Remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining; you’ll need it later to help make the sauce!
2. Sauté the Mushrooms:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté them, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This step adds a nice depth of flavor to the dish!
3. Add Garlic and Spinach:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet with the mushrooms. Cook for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant. Then add the fresh spinach, cooking and stirring frequently until it wilts down, about 2-3 minutes. You’ll see it transform into a deliciously vibrant green!
4. Combine Everything:
Once the spinach is wilted, add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Toss everything together to combine well. This is where the magic happens—everything begins to come together beautifully!
5. Add Cheese and Season:
Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. If the mixture seems a little dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce that coats the pasta nicely. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, and if you’d like, add a bit of fresh lemon juice or zest for an extra zing!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your easy Parmesan spinach mushroom pasta skillet right away, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Dive in and enjoy the delicious flavors!
Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute farfalle with any pasta shape you prefer or have on hand, such as penne, rotini, or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose!
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Spinach?
If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach instead. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the skillet. The flavor will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian or Vegan?
This dish is already vegetarian, but for a vegan version, simply substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast or a store-bought vegan cheese. The flavor will still be wonderful!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. You can also use the microwave, stirring occasionally, to heat it evenly!
