This Cheesy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet is a warm, inviting dish! With pasta, fresh spinach, mushrooms, and lots of gooey cheese, it’s a real comfort food.
Honestly, who can resist a one-pan meal that’s quick and simple? I love how the flavors blend, and the cheese just makes everything better. Perfect for busy nights! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Farfalle Pasta: Farfalle is great for its fun shape, but any pasta like penne or spaghetti works well. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as different pasta types may vary.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor to the dish, but you can substitute it with vegetable or canola oil if needed. If you’re a fan of richer tastes, try using garlic-infused olive oil for an extra kick!
Baby Spinach: Fresh spinach is best for its bright flavor, but frozen spinach works too! Just thaw and drain it well before adding to the skillet. You could also use kale for a heartier option.
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms offer a nice flavor, but you can use standard white mushrooms or even shiitake for more depth. If mushrooms aren’t your thing, consider adding zucchini or bell peppers instead!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is my go-to since it melts better than pre-grated versions. If you want a substitue, aged Gouda or Pecorino can add a unique twist!
How Do You Properly Sauté Vegetables?
Sautéing is a key technique in this recipe to enhance flavors and create a delicious base for your pasta. Here’s a simple way to do it:
- Start with a hot skillet and add your oil. It should shimmer but not smoke.
- Add your onions first (if using) and sauté until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Next, add the mushrooms. Don’t overcrowd the pan; give them space to brown nicely.
- Stir occasionally! This helps them cook evenly and develop flavor.
- Finally, add garlic and red pepper flakes toward the end since they cook quickly and can burn.
This technique really makes a difference in your dish, bringing out the best in each ingredient. Enjoy the process, and you’ll see the flavors come alive!
Cheesy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Pasta: 8 ounces farfalle (bow-tie) pasta
- Oil: 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Greens: 3 cups baby spinach leaves
- Mushrooms: 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- Garlic: 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Spice: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Cheese: 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Seasoning: Salt and black pepper to taste
- Liquid: 1/2 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
- Optional: 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Optional: 1 tablespoon butter for extra richness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious skillet meal takes about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and about 20 minutes sautéing the veggies and bringing everything together. Perfect for a busy evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, cook the farfalle pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Before you drain it, be sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. After that, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. If you’re using the optional onion, toss in the finely chopped onions first and sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Look for them to turn golden brown and release their moisture.
3. Add the Flavor:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes into the mushrooms. Sauté for another minute until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
4. Incorporate the Spinach:
Add the baby spinach to the skillet and cook until it’s wilted. This should only take about 2 minutes. The vibrant green color is a wonderful sign that you’re almost done!
5. Combine Everything:
Now, it’s time to lower the heat and gently add the cooked pasta into the skillet with your sautéed veggies. Pour in some of the reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time to help loosen everything up and aid the cheese in melting smoothly.
6. Add Cheese and Season:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and, if you’re feeling indulgent, the optional butter. Mix everything well until the cheese is completely melted and all the ingredients are combined. Finally, season your pasta with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now you’re ready to enjoy your amazing cheesy pasta skillet! Serve it immediately, and feel free to garnish with extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like some extra heat.
This Cheesy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet is sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. Enjoy every bite! 😊
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great substitution that adds more fiber. Just be aware that it may take a couple of extra minutes to cook, so check the package instructions for timing.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it from drying out.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies. Zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes work well. Just remember to sauté them until they’re tender before mixing them with the pasta.
What Can I Use Instead of Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, try using Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Keep in mind that nutritional yeast won’t melt in the same way, but it will add great flavor!
