Name: Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 14 oz (400g) farfalle pasta; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 14 oz (400 g) mushrooms, sliced; 10 oz (300g) fresh spinach; 1/2 cup (125ml) low-sodium vegetable broth (optional); Fresh cracked pepper, to taste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated; 1 teaspoon red chili pepper flakes, optional

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting dinner that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and satisfies everyone at the table, this Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet should be at the top of your list. Tender farfalle pasta is tossed with golden sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, a touch of heat, and finished with a generous shower of parmesan cheese. All prepared in a single skillet for ultimate convenience! It’s a vibrant, one-pan wonder you’ll look forward to making again and again—packed full of savory flavor, it proves that simple ingredients can truly shine when brought together with care.

Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about the Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet is how every ingredient serves a purpose. These are humble kitchen staples, each bringing a unique taste or texture, and together they create a colorful, crave-worthy meal. Don’t skip on quality—especially with the olive oil and parmesan, since their flavors really sing in this dish.

Farfalle pasta (14 oz/400g): The bow-tie shape holds onto the sauce beautifully, but feel free to substitute penne or rotini if you prefer.
Olive oil (3 tablespoons): A good quality oil is vital, infusing depth and fruitiness into every bite.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic gives the dish its warm, inviting aroma and classic Italian flair.
Mushrooms (14 oz/400g, sliced): Choose your favorite variety—white button, cremini, or even a blend for extra umami richness.
Fresh spinach (10 oz/300g): Wilts beautifully into the pasta, adding a burst of color and nutrients.
Low-sodium vegetable broth (1/2 cup/125ml): Keeps everything juicy and flavorful without overpowering the other ingredients.
Fresh cracked pepper, to taste: Brightens up the whole dish; add as much as your tastebuds desire.
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of classic herbs that rounds out the flavors effortlessly.
Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): The star topping—use freshly grated for best melty, salty goodness.
Red chili pepper flakes (1 teaspoon, optional): Adds a subtle kick for those who love a hint of heat.

How to Make Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cook your farfalle pasta until al dente, following package instructions. Drain it, reserving about half a cup of the cooking water just in case you need to loosen the sauce later. Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente will keep the final dish bouncy and satisfying.

Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms

While your pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown, their moisture has evaporated, and they’ve developed lovely caramelized edges. This is when the mushrooms gain all that robust, savory flavor.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices

Reduce the heat to medium, then add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of red chili pepper flakes if using. Sauté just until the garlic is fragrant, about 1 minute—be careful not to let it brown! The aroma as these ingredients bloom together is simply irresistible and builds the flavor base for your Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet.

Step 4: Wilt in the Spinach

Add in the fresh spinach, working in batches so you don’t overcrowd the pan. Drizzle in a splash of vegetable broth (you may not need it all). Stir gently, letting the spinach wilt down and the broth deglaze any flavorful bits stuck to the skillet. This step makes the pasta both moist and colorful.

Step 5: Bring it All Together

Return your drained pasta to the skillet, and toss everything together. Sprinkle in the grated parmesan cheese and plenty of cracked black pepper. If the mixture seems dry, stir in some reserved pasta water or the rest of the vegetable broth, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired creaminess. The cheese melts right into the mix, pulling everything together in classic Italian comfort-food fashion.

How to Serve Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet

Garnishes

For the perfect finishing touch, a good shower of extra parmesan cheese always works wonders. Scatter some fresh chopped parsley or basil for brightness, and a few more red pepper flakes if you’re in the mood for a spicy kick. A drizzle of olive oil just before serving is also a delicious upgrade.

Side Dishes

This pasta needs little to shine, but you can make it a meal with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette or serve it alongside some crusty bread to mop up every bit of the cheesy sauce. For a heartier spread, consider roasted vegetables or a simple tomato salad.

Creative Ways to Present

You can pile the pasta high on a platter family-style or serve individual bowls for a cozy, comforting feel. For a stunning touch at a dinner party, swirl each serving into neat nests with tongs and top with a tall tuft of extra greens or a parmesan crisp. The vibrant spinach and golden mushrooms make every presentation pop!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will continue to absorb some of the sauce, so give it a quick toss before serving to revive those luscious flavors.

Freezing

While it’s tempting to want to stock your freezer, this particular pasta dish isn’t the best for freezing, as the sauce will be absorbed and the texture won’t hold up well. If you do need to freeze it, do so only if you’re okay with a slightly drier result, and plan to add extra olive oil or broth upon reheating.

Reheating

For the tastiest leftovers, reheat your skillet pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or olive oil to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently and avoid overheating so the spinach doesn’t overcook. A brief zap in the microwave works too—just cover and add a drop of liquid first.

FAQs

What can I substitute for spinach in this dish?

If you’re out of spinach, chopped kale is an excellent alternative. Just give it a few extra minutes to soften in the skillet before mixing in the pasta. Swiss chard or even arugula can work for a fun twist as well.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta, like brown rice farfalle or quinoa-based varieties. Follow the package cooking instructions carefully, as gluten-free pastas can vary in texture and cook time.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet welcomes additions like diced cooked chicken, grilled shrimp, or even white beans for a plant-based protein boost. Just stir them in near the end so they warm through without overcooking.

What mushrooms work best for this pasta?

Cremini and white button mushrooms are classic and affordable, but you can mix in shiitake or portobello for a deeper, earthier flavor. A blend keeps things interesting and gives the dish a beautiful variety in both taste and appearance.

Is this Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It’s a fantastic meal-prep option since the flavors meld wonderfully as it sits. Just store in individual portions and be sure to add a bit of olive oil or broth when reheating to keep everything saucy and fresh.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re inspired to whip up this Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet the next time you want a satisfying dinner that’s bursting with flavor without any fuss. It’s simple, stunning, and always comfortingly delicious—give it a try, and watch it become a new favorite in your kitchen!

Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 30 reviews

Author: Lila
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet is a delightful and flavorful dish that is both satisfying and easy to make. With a perfect blend of mushrooms, spinach, and parmesan cheese, this one-pan pasta recipe is a quick and delicious option for any day of the week.

Instructions

Cook Pasta: Boil the farfalle pasta in a pot of salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Garlic and Mushrooms: In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until softened.
Add Spinach and Broth: Stir in fresh spinach and vegetable broth. Season with pepper and Italian seasoning. Cook until spinach wilts.
Combine Pasta and Cheese: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the top and mix well.
Finish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle red chili pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.
Experiment with different mushroom varieties for diverse flavors.
If reheating leftovers, consider adding a touch of olive oil to prevent dryness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Italian