This Easy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet is a quick and tasty meal! With creamy cheese, fresh spinach, and hearty mushrooms, it’s packed with flavor and colorful goodness.
Who knew dinner could be this simple? I love how everything cooks in one pan. Less mess means more time for Netflix! 🍝
Making this pasta is a breeze for me. Just toss everything in, let it bubble, and enjoy. It’s perfect for busy nights or when I’m just too lazy to do the dishes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I use bowtie pasta for a fun shape, but any pasta will work! You can swap it for penne, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. The key is to cook it al dente for that perfect texture.
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms have a richer flavor, but white button mushrooms are just fine too. If you’re looking for a twist, try adding some shiitake or portobello mushrooms for even deeper taste!
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach is my go-to for this dish, but kale or arugula can be used too. If you’re using kale, chop it finely and sauté it a bit longer to make it tender.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty kick. If you prefer a dairy-free version, nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
How Can I Make Sure My Pasta Stays Creamy?
The key to keeping your pasta creamy is the reserved pasta water. This starchy liquid helps bind everything together and creates a smooth sauce. Here’s how to do it:
- Always reserve some pasta water before draining your pot.
- After flipping the pasta into the skillet, gradually add the reserved water while tossing everything together.
- Start with a little and add more if needed until you reach your desired creaminess.
These steps will ensure your dish is rich and delightful without being too dry! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta skillet takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, making the total time around 25 minutes. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight yet delicious enough to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Don’t forget to reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before you drain it, as this will help make your sauce creamy!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant but be careful not to let it brown!
3. Add the Mushrooms:
Now it’s time to add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to soften up and get a nice golden color. Season them with a sprinkle of salt and black pepper.
4. Wilt the Spinach:
Next, add the fresh baby spinach to the skillet with the mushrooms. Stir gently and cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts down. If you like a little heat, this is the moment to add the red pepper flakes!
5. Combine Everything:
Now, add the cooked pasta to your skillet with the spinach and mushrooms. Toss everything together to combine well. Pour in the reserved pasta water gradually while tossing; this will help create a light sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
6. Finish with Parmesan:
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta mixture. Toss until the cheese is melted and everything is mixed together. Taste and add more salt or pepper if you like.
7. Serve Up:
Your Easy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet is ready! Serve it immediately and enjoy the comforting flavors you’ve created. Perfect with a little extra Parmesan on top if you like!
### Enjoy your meal! 😊
FAQ for Easy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead of Bowtie Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta can be a healthier option and will work just fine in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as whole wheat pasta may take a bit longer to become al dente.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, or warm it gently on the stove with a splash of water or olive oil to regain creaminess.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Spinach?
No worries! You can use frozen spinach as a substitute. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the skillet. If using frozen, you might want to add it earlier in the cooking process to ensure it warms through properly.
Can I Add Protein to This Dish?
Definitely! This pasta is versatile. You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for added protein. Just toss them in along with the spinach to heat through before serving!
