This creamy Parmesan spinach mushroom pasta skillet is a delicious one-pan wonder! It’s packed with fresh spinach, earthy mushrooms, and cheesy goodness that bring big flavors to your table.
Making this dish feels like a warm hug! I love how quick it is. Just sauté, toss, and enjoy! Perfect for those nights when you want comfort food without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Farfalle Pasta: This bowtie-shaped pasta holds the sauce well and gives a fun texture. If you’re out of farfalle, feel free to use penne, fusilli, or any pasta you have on hand!
Olive Oil: A healthy choice for sautéing, olive oil adds flavor too. You can swap it for butter for a richer taste, or use a non-stick spray for a lighter option.
Mushrooms: I love using cremini mushrooms for their earthy flavor, but regular button mushrooms work just fine. If you like a stronger taste, try shiitake or portobello mushrooms instead.
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its rich creaminess. If you want a lighter version, opt for half-and-half or a non-dairy cream like coconut cream, keeping in mind this will add a different flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully in this dish. If you’re vegan, nutritional yeast is a great substitute that adds a cheesy flavor. You could also use Pecorino Romano for a slightly sharper taste.
How Do I Make My Pasta Creamy Without Clumping?
The key to a creamy pasta dish is to combine the cream and cheese properly without letting it clump. Here’s how to achieve that smooth texture:
- Make sure the heat is on low when adding the cream; high heat can cause it to separate.
- Stir continuously when you add the cream to help it incorporate evenly.
- Once the cheese goes in, remove the skillet from the heat immediately after stirring. This prevents it from cooking too quickly and clumping.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a creamy pasta dish that’s full of flavor! Enjoy your cooking!
Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 8 oz farfalle (bowtie) pasta
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 5 oz fresh spinach
Cooking Essentials:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional garnish: extra Parmesan, chopped parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious skillet takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and then another 20 minutes cooking everything together. It’s quick and simple, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Don’t forget to save a splash of the cooking water for later!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and transparent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are nicely browned and tender, which should take about 6-8 minutes.
3. Add the Spinach and Seasoning:
Next, stir in the red pepper flakes (feel free to adjust the amount based on your spice preference) and add the fresh spinach. Cook everything together for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the spinach wilts down.
4. Make It Creamy:
Now it’s time for the creamy part! Reduce the heat to low and pour the heavy cream into the skillet. Stir well to combine, allowing it to warm through for about 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine Everything:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. If it looks a bit thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
6. Finish with Cheese:
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the creamy pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if you like. Enjoy this comforting dish with family or friends!
FAQ for Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle is a great option, feel free to use any pasta shape you have on hand, such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian-Friendly?
This recipe is already vegetarian! It’s packed with fresh spinach, mushrooms, and a rich cream sauce that doesn’t require any meat. Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition!
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option, or use non-dairy creamers like coconut or almond cream. Just keep in mind that using a non-dairy option may slightly alter the flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to bring back the creaminess.
