This Cheesy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet is a quick and delicious meal! It’s packed with fresh spinach, tasty mushrooms, and, of course, lots of gooey cheese.
You can whip this up in one pan, which means less mess and more time to enjoy. I love topping mine with extra cheese because, let’s be honest, more cheese is always better! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle is a fun choice for this dish, but you can easily swap it for other shapes like penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you’re using a different pasta type.
Mushrooms: I love using cremini mushrooms for their rich flavor, but white button mushrooms work well too. If you want to switch it up, try shiitake or portobello mushrooms for a meatier texture. You can even use canned mushrooms in a pinch!
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best for this recipe, but you can substitute with kale or Swiss chard if you prefer. Just remember that kale may need a bit more cooking time as it’s sturdier than spinach.
Parmesan Cheese: For a similar flavor, you can use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor without the cheese!
How Do I Get My Mushrooms Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking mushrooms right is key for great flavor and texture! A common challenge is that they can turn slimy if not cooked properly. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough before you add the mushrooms. This ensures they get a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed, so the mushrooms have room to release moisture.
- Let them sit for a bit without stirring. This helps them brown nicely. Stir them just occasionally.
When they turn golden brown and fragrant, you’ll know they’re ready to add to the dish!
Cheesy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz (about 2 1/2 cups) farfalle (bowtie) pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini)
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth (or water)
Optional Ingredients:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter for extra richness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes around 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll have a beautifully creamy and cheesy pasta dish that’s perfect for a busy weekday dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Olive Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This will be the base for all those delicious flavors.
2. Sauté the Onion:
If you’re using onion, add it now and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3 minutes. This adds sweetness to your dish!
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
Next, toss in the sliced mushrooms. Cook them until they are nicely browned and have released their moisture, which should take about 6-8 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that rich, mushroomy flavor!
4. Add Garlic and Spice:
Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for another minute until you can smell the wonderful aroma. Just be careful not to burn the garlic!
5. Combine with Broth and Pasta:
Pour in the broth (or water) and add the farfalle pasta. Stir everything together to ensure the pasta is well-coated and submerged.
6. Simmer to Cook the Pasta:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has evaporated, creating a creamy texture.
7. Add Spinach:
Fold in the fresh spinach and cook for another 2 minutes until the spinach is just wilted. This adds a pop of color and nutrients!
8. Mix in the Cheese:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. If you’re feeling fancy, add the butter for an extra creamy finish.
9. Season to Taste:
Now’s the time to taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like it spicy. Enjoy your delicious and cheesy pasta dish!
Dig in and savor every cheesy and flavorful bite of your rich, savory skillet pasta with perfectly sautéed mushrooms and fresh spinach!
FAQ for Cheesy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead of Farfalle?
Yes, absolutely! You can use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option, just adjust the cooking time as whole wheat pasta may require a little longer to cook compared to regular pasta.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Spinach?
If you don’t have fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach instead. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove any excess water before adding it to the skillet so it doesn’t make the dish soggy.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen it up if needed.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast, and skip the butter or replace it with a plant-based butter alternative. You can also enhance the flavor with extra herbs or spices!
