This Cheesy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet is a warm, comforting dish that’s full of rich flavors. With creamy cheese, fresh spinach, and hearty mushrooms, it’s pure deliciousness in one pot!
I love how quick this skillet comes together; less time cooking means more time to enjoy! Plus, who doesn’t love cheesy pasta? It’s the ultimate dinner night treat! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle (bowtie) pasta adds a fun shape to the dish. If you can’t find it, choose any pasta you have on hand, like penne or rotini. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
Mushrooms: I love using cremini mushrooms for their deeper flavor, but white button mushrooms work well too. If you want a different taste, try shiitake or portobello mushrooms as delicious substitutes!
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a nice color and nutrition. If it’s out of season, you can use frozen spinach instead! Just thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the skillet.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for melting, but if you don’t have it, try Pecorino Romano or even a good quality aged cheddar for a different twist!
Butter: Adding butter creates a creamy richness. If you want to keep it lighter, you can skip it or substitute with a little olive oil.
How Do I Cook the Pasta Perfectly?
Cooking pasta to the right doneness is crucial for the best texture. Follow these simple steps:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt enhances flavor.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes.
- Taste a piece a minute or two before the suggested time to check for ‘al dente’—it should be firm but not hard.
- Reserve some pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water helps thicken and flavor the sauce!
Perfectly cooked pasta adds great texture to your skillet dish!
Cheesy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (about 2 1/2 cups) farfalle (bowtie) pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cups sliced white or cremini mushrooms
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup butter (optional, for extra richness)
- 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 30 minutes to go from start to finish—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Make sure to reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining and setting the pasta aside!
2. Sauté the Mushrooms:
In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Add in the sliced mushrooms. Sauté them for about 6–8 minutes until they turn golden brown and soft, letting their moisture release.
3. Add Garlic and Red Pepper:
Once the mushrooms are cooked, add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent sticking or burning.
4. Wilt the Spinach:
Now, toss in the fresh spinach and cook until it has wilted, which should take about 2 minutes. Season everything to taste with salt and black pepper.
5. Combine Pasta with the Mixture:
Lower the heat to medium-low and add the cooked farfalle pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together so that the pasta mixes with the mushroom and spinach.
6. Add Cheese and Create Sauce:
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese as you toss the pasta. Gradually add the reserved pasta water to create a light sauce that coats the pasta. You can control the creaminess by adjusting how much water you use!
7. Enhance with Butter:
If you want an extra creamy touch, stir in the butter at this stage for added richness.
8. Final Taste Test:
Give everything a taste! Adjust with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you prefer a little more kick.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the pasta immediately while it’s warm, topped with additional grated Parmesan cheese to indulge in that cheesy goodness!
Enjoy your delicious and creamy Cheesy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet! It’s a splendid dish that’s both comforting and satisfying!
FAQ for Cheesy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle adds a fun shape, you can use any pasta you have on hand. Penne, rotini, or even spaghetti work great—just be mindful to adjust cooking times accordingly!
Is There a Vegetarian Alternative to Parmesan Cheese?
Yes! For a vegetarian option, you can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Another great option is a plant-based Parmesan cheese if you’re looking to keep it dairy-free!
How Can I Store Leftovers from This Dish?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry!
Can I Make This Skillet Dish Gluten-Free?
Definitely! Just substitute the farfalle with a gluten-free pasta variety. Brown rice or quinoa pasta works well and will maintain the delightful flavor of the dish!
