This easy Parmesan spinach mushroom pasta skillet is a tasty, one-pan meal! It’s filled with fresh spinach, earthy mushrooms, and a sprinkle of cheesy Parmesan that makes every bite delicious.
If you’re like me, you love pasta that cooks in one pan. Less time cleaning means more time to enjoy! Trust me, add some crusty bread to soak up all that cheesy goodness.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used farfalle for its fun shape, but you can swap it for any pasta, like penne or spaghetti. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as different types may require different cooking durations.
Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms add a great depth of flavor. If you don’t have them, canned mushrooms could work in a pinch, or you could replace them with sautéed zucchini or roasted red peppers.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is the star here, but frozen spinach can be used too. Just thaw it out and drain any excess water before adding it to the skillet. It’s a real time-saver!
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a rich creaminess. If you’re out, try Pecorino Romano for a stronger flavor, or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Ensure My Mushrooms Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking mushrooms properly can really enhance their flavor. Here are a few tips:
- Start by using a hot pan to encourage browning. Too low heat can lead to steaming, which isn’t what we want.
- Sauté the mushrooms for a few minutes without stirring too much. Let them brown before flipping to maximize flavor. If they release water, let it evaporate fully before adding garlic.
- Don’t overload the pan—cook them in batches if necessary to get that lovely golden color.
With these tips, your mushrooms will be deliciously tender and packed with flavor! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) farfalle (bowtie) pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 8 oz fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta cooking water (or more as needed)
- Optional: 1 small onion, diced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta skillet requires about 10 minutes for prep and 15-20 minutes for cooking, totaling around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once boiling, add the farfalle pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining—this will help make a nice sauce later!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced mushrooms (and the diced onion if you’re using it). Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have browned and most of their moisture has evaporated. This process enhances their flavor.
3. Add Garlic and Spinach:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1 minute, just until the garlic is fragrant (be careful not to burn it!). Then, add the fresh spinach to the skillet and stir frequently until it wilts down, which should take another 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the veggies and toss everything together. Gradually pour in the reserved pasta cooking water, adding just enough to coat the pasta and create a light sauce.
5. Finish with Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted into the dish—this gives the pasta a rich flavor. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is well combined and heated through, serve your delicious pasta skillet hot. Feel free to sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes on top for that finishing touch!
This recipe not only delivers a quick and satisfying meal but also brings together flavors that you and your family will love. Happy cooking!
FAQ About Easy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great alternative and adds extra fiber to the dish. Just check the cooking time on the package, as it might differ slightly from regular pasta.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Spinach?
No worries! You can use frozen spinach instead. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the skillet. It’ll work beautifully in this recipe!
How Long Can Leftovers Be Stored?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes. Just sauté them along with the mushrooms to ensure they cook through properly.
This FAQ section should help you navigate any questions you might have while preparing or enjoying your Easy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet!
