The Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet is truly weeknight magic — a comforting one-pan wonder that delivers classic Italian-American flavor with just the right amount of creamy, garlicky goodness. Packed with golden sautéed mushrooms, bright green spinach, and a shower of nutty Parmesan cheese, this skillet pasta brings together taste and convenience in every twirl. With just half an hour and a handful of ingredients, you’ll be stirring up a meal that feels both totally indulgent and secretly nutritious!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish is how a small list of everyday ingredients can create such wholesome flavor and creamy texture. Each ingredient has its own role to play, from building a savory backbone to adding color and freshness.
- Pasta (8 ounces, any shape): Use your favorite pasta—penne, fettuccine, or even spaghetti all soak up the sauce beautifully.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): A drizzle of good olive oil adds fruitiness and helps all your veggies caramelize.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Brings a punchy, aromatic depth that’s totally essential for Italian-inspired recipes.
- Onion (1 small, finely chopped): Sweetens up the skillet and provides a subtle background flavor anchor.
- Mushrooms (8 ounces, sliced): Go for cremini or white button—both provide a rich, hearty bite and gorgeous color.
- Fresh spinach (4 cups): Wilts down to add nutrition and a pop of leafy green brightness.
- Vegetable broth or pasta water (1/2 cup): Adds essential moisture and helps everything come together into a glossy sauce.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): The star element for flavor and creaminess—choose real Parmigiano-Reggiano if possible.
- Heavy cream (1/4 cup, optional): Swirl in for that silky-smooth, ultra-creamy sauce if you’re in the mood for decadence.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Seasons every bite—taste and adjust at the end.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Add for a gentle, lingering heat if you love a little spice.
- Extra Parmesan and chopped parsley for garnish: The final flourish that makes each plate look and taste like a treat.
How to Make Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your pasta in a big pot of salted water just until it’s perfectly al dente—tender, but still with some bite. Don’t forget to scoop out about half a cup of the pasta water before draining; that salty, starchy liquid is culinary gold and will help bring the sauce together later.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In your biggest skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and chopped onion, stirring frequently for two to three minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when your kitchen smells irresistible and the onions turn translucent.
Step 3: Add the Mushrooms
Next, pile in the sliced mushrooms. Give them a good stir so they’re evenly coated with the garlicky oil. Cook for five to seven minutes, letting the mushrooms brown beautifully and release their savory juices. Their earthy flavor is what gives the Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet so much satisfying depth.
Step 4: Wilt the Spinach
Add your mountain of fresh spinach straight into the skillet. It might seem like a lot, but spinach wilts down quickly under the heat—just stir for about two minutes until everything looks deeply green and glossy.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
It’s time for the magic! Add the drained pasta right to the skillet, followed by your reserved pasta water (or vegetable broth if you prefer). Sprinkle over the grated Parmesan and gently pour in the heavy cream if using. Season everything with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss everything together over low heat until the sauce clings dreamily to the noodles and the cheese melts into a creamy, glossy coating.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is piping hot and perfectly combined, pile the pasta onto plates and finish with a snowfall of extra Parmesan and a pinch of freshly chopped parsley. Every bite will deliver those classic flavors you crave.
How to Serve Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
Garnishes
The finishing touches for your Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet make all the difference! Hand-shaved Parmesan and a dusting of fresh parsley add both a flavor boost and a pop of color that catches the eye. If you love a touch of zip, try a sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving—bright and irresistible.
Side Dishes
This skillet pasta is deliciously complete on its own, but a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette can add crunch and freshness. For extra coziness, warm up some garlic bread or a slice of crusty baguette to soak up any extra sauce—simple sides that let your pasta shine!
Creative Ways to Present
Get a little playful with your plating! For a family dinner, serve the entire Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet at the table straight from the pan for a rustic, cozy vibe. If you want to impress, twirl individual portions into pasta nests and top with mushroom slices and a flurry of cheese for a restaurant-worthy look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of the Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet keep so well! Let the pasta cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld together even more, making lunch the next day something to look forward to.
Freezing
If you’re planning to freeze, skip the cream for best results—dairy can sometimes separate in the freezer. Portion the cooled pasta into airtight, freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, simply add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring often. You can also microwave in 1-minute bursts, stirring after each until heated through. Don’t forget to add a bit more fresh Parmesan before serving!
FAQs
Can I make Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet vegan?
Absolutely! Just omit the cream and swap the Parmesan for nutritional yeast. Use your favorite plant-based pasta and you’ll have a dairy-free, vegan pasta skillet that’s still creamy and delicious.
What type Main Course
Both cremini and white button mushrooms deliver a lovely earthy flavor, but you can also try baby bella or even a mix for extra depth and color. If you love shiitake or portobello, go ahead and experiment!
How can I add protein to this dish?
For extra heartiness, top your Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet with slices of grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp. For a vegetarian boost, toss in a can of drained white beans or some toasted pine nuts.
Do I have to use heavy cream?
Not at all! The Parmesan and starchy pasta water alone make a silky, glossy sauce, but a splash of cream adds extra richness. For a lighter option, use whole milk or just leave it out altogether—it’ll still taste fantastic.
Can I use whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta?
Definitely! Whole-wheat pasta adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber, while gluten-free pasta works seamlessly for anyone with dietary restrictions. Just adjust your cook time according to the package directions.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to dish up and enjoy this Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet—there’s something so nourishing, comforting, and deeply satisfying in every bite. It’s the kind of meal that feels both special and totally doable any night of the week, so don’t hesitate to make it part of your regular rotation!
Print
Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet is a flavorful and satisfying one-pan pasta dish that combines tender pasta with earthy mushrooms, nutritious spinach, and savory Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (cremini or white button)
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth or pasta water
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for creamier texture)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Extra Parmesan and chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook Mushrooms: Add the mushrooms and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and tender.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water or broth. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream if using. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Finish and Serve: Toss until the pasta is well coated and everything is heated through. Garnish with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a vegan version, skip the cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Use whole-wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 412
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 342mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 27mg
