This Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet is a quick, one-pan vegetarian dinner that’s full of flavor and comfort. Made with farfalle pasta, savory mushrooms, fresh spinach, and melty parmesan, it’s an easy, satisfying dish you can whip up in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a meatless weeknight meal the whole family will love.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 14 oz (400g) farfalle pasta

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 14 oz (400g) mushrooms, sliced

• 10 oz (300g) fresh spinach

• 1/2 cup (125ml) low-sodium vegetable broth (use as needed)

• Fresh cracked pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated

• 1 teaspoon red chili pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. Cook the farfalle pasta in salted water until al dente, according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add mushrooms and sauté for about 3 minutes until lightly browned.

3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Deglaze with a splash of vegetable broth. Reduce heat and simmer for 1–2 minutes. Remove mushrooms from the skillet and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, add spinach and cook for about 2 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the sautéed mushrooms. Toss everything together.

6. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, grated parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.

7. Serve warm, topped with red chili flakes and more parmesan if desired.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approx. 450–500 kcal (estimate based on ingredients)

• Protein: ~18 g

• Fat: ~15–18 g

• Carbohydrates: ~60 g

• Fiber: ~4–5 g

• Sugar: ~4 g

A Simple Meal That Feels Special

Despite how easy it is to make, this dish feels a little luxurious. The creamy, cheesy parmesan melts into the warm pasta, coating every bite with rich umami flavor. The sautéed mushrooms offer a meaty texture and deep savory notes, while the spinach adds freshness and a boost of nutrients. It’s the kind of pasta that looks and tastes like something you’d get at a cozy café or a rustic Italian restaurant, but it all comes together in your own kitchen with everyday ingredients.

Farfalle pasta, commonly known as bow-tie pasta, is a great choice for this dish because it holds sauce well and adds a fun, playful shape that’s appealing for both adults and kids. The whole experience is indulgent, without being heavy or complicated—just simple, nourishing, and delicious.

One-Pan Cooking for Easy Cleanup

One of the standout features of this recipe is that it’s made in just one skillet. That means fewer dishes, faster cleanup, and less time spent in the kitchen. After cooking the pasta separately, everything comes together in a single pan—first the mushrooms, then the spinach, then the final mix with the pasta, olive oil, and parmesan. This method not only builds layers of flavor but also streamlines your dinner routine.

It’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights when you want something warm and comforting but don’t want to be stuck doing dishes after the meal. One pan, one bowl, and you’re done.

Flavorful and Nutrient-Packed

This dish isn’t just about comfort—it’s also packed with nutrients. Mushrooms are a great source of B vitamins, antioxidants, and even plant-based protein. Spinach is loaded with iron, magnesium, and fiber, making it a powerhouse leafy green that adds both flavor and nutrition. Parmesan cheese contributes calcium and additional protein while giving the dish that iconic creamy richness.

With an estimated 18 grams of protein per serving, this vegetarian pasta is a smart choice for those looking to reduce meat consumption while still meeting their nutritional needs. The balance of complex carbs from the pasta, healthy fats from olive oil, and fiber from the vegetables creates a meal that’s satisfying and energizing without being overly heavy.

Great for All Eating Lifestyles

This recipe is naturally vegetarian, making it an ideal option for meatless Mondays or for anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their routine. It can also be easily adapted for different dietary needs. To make it vegan, simply swap out the parmesan cheese for a dairy-free alternative or nutritional yeast. If you’re gluten-free, you can substitute the farfalle with your favorite gluten-free pasta variety.

The flavor is so rich and satisfying that even meat-eaters won’t miss the meat. It’s a great introduction to plant-forward cooking, proving that vegetarian meals can be just as indulgent and comforting as their meat-based counterparts.

The Magic of Mushrooms and Parmesan

Mushrooms and parmesan cheese are the two flavor pillars of this dish, and they work together to create a deep, savory, almost umami-rich experience. Mushrooms have that unique ability to mimic the heartiness of meat, which is why they’re often featured in vegetarian recipes. When sautéed until golden brown, they develop a caramelized, nutty flavor that anchors the dish.

Parmesan cheese, with its salty, aged depth, is the perfect finishing touch. It not only enhances the overall flavor but also adds a creamy, velvety texture when it melts into the pasta. Together, these two ingredients create a savory profile that’s both rich and well-balanced.

Spinach Adds Balance and Freshness

While the mushrooms and cheese bring savory richness, the spinach adds brightness and balance. As it wilts down into the skillet, it brings a light, earthy contrast that keeps the dish from feeling too heavy. Spinach also enhances the visual appeal, adding a pop of green color that makes the pasta look fresh and vibrant.

Because it cooks down so easily, spinach is a great way to sneak extra greens into your diet. Even kids or picky eaters who might not normally go for leafy vegetables often enjoy spinach when it’s mixed into cheesy, flavorful pasta like this.

Perfect for Weeknights and Leftovers

This pasta skillet is made for weeknight convenience. From start to finish, it takes under 30 minutes, and the ingredients are all common pantry or fridge staples. The leftovers are just as delicious the next day, reheated with a splash of broth or olive oil to bring everything back to life. You can even enjoy it cold as a pasta salad-style lunch if you’re in a pinch.

If you’re cooking for a family, it’s easy to double the recipe. It also stores well in the fridge for several days, making it a great option for meal prepping or packed lunches.

Simple Seasonings, Big Flavor

This dish doesn’t need a lot of seasoning to shine. A bit of garlic, a sprinkle of Italian herbs, and some freshly cracked pepper are all it takes to bring the ingredients together. The red chili flakes are optional but highly recommended if you like a little heat to contrast with the creamy parmesan.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. You’re not masking ingredients—you’re letting them shine. The garlic brings warmth, the Italian seasoning adds depth, and the chili flakes introduce a kick that takes the dish up a notch.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This pasta is filling enough to stand on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, there are plenty of great pairing options. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette is always a great addition to any pasta night. For a more indulgent twist, serve with a glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon.

Because it’s elegant yet approachable, this dish also works well for casual dinner parties. Serve it in a large skillet or dish family-style and let guests help themselves—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Conclusion

The Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet is a quick, wholesome, and flavorful vegetarian dinner that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. Ready in under 30 minutes and made with just one pan, it brings together the rich umami of mushrooms, the creaminess of parmesan, and the brightness of fresh spinach in a perfectly balanced dish that’s comforting without being heavy.

Whether you’re looking for a reliable weeknight recipe, a way to include more plant-based meals in your routine, or simply a delicious dinner that everyone will love, this pasta skillet is the answer. It’s packed with flavor, adaptable to your dietary needs, and so easy to whip up with minimal cleanup.

Add this recipe to your regular rotation and you’ll always have a go-to dish for nights when you need something cozy, quick, and irresistibly good. It’s vegetarian comfort food at its finest—simple, soulful, and made to be shared.