Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the richness of Parmesan cheese, the earthiness of mushrooms, and the tenderness of spinach. Here's a complete recipe to make this dish, along with some tips and variations to elevate its taste.
**Required Ingredients:**
* 1 lb pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or rigatoni)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 small onion, finely chopped
* 2 cups mixed mushrooms (e.g., cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/4 cup chicken broth
* 1 tablespoon dried thyme
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
* Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
**Cooking Steps:**
1. **Cook the pasta:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
2. **Sauté the onion and mushrooms:** In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. **Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute:** Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. **Add the spinach and cook until wilted:** Add the thawed and drained spinach to the skillet. Cook until the spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. **Add the Parmesan cheese and chicken broth:** Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chicken broth. Cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is well combined, about 2 minutes.
6. **Combine the pasta and skillet mixture:** Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the mushroom and spinach mixture. If the pasta seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water.
7. **Season and serve:** Season the skillet with salt, pepper, and thyme. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice (if desired).
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use different types of pasta:** Experiment with different pasta shapes, such as orecchiette or farfalle, to change the texture and presentation of the dish.
* **Add protein:** Introduce cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon to the skillet to increase the protein content and make the dish more substantial.
* **Change the mushroom variety:** Use a single type of mushroom, such as cremini or shiitake, for a more intense flavor.
* **Add some heat:** Incorporate red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to give the dish a spicy kick.
* **Make it vegetarian:** Substitute chicken broth with vegetable or mushroom broth to make the dish vegetarian.
* **Add some brightness:** Stir in some chopped fresh basil or parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.
* **Make it ahead:** Cook the pasta, mushroom, and spinach mixture ahead of time and reheat when ready. Add the Parmesan cheese and chicken broth just before serving.
**Other Version Ideas:**
* **Creamy Mushroom Pasta Skillet:** Add 1/4 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half to the skillet with the Parmesan cheese and chicken broth.
* **Mushroom and Leek Pasta Skillet:** Substitute sliced leeks for the onion and add some dried thyme for a more savory flavor.
* **Italian-Style Pasta Skillet:** Add some diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and chopped prosciutto to the skillet for a more vibrant and colorful dish.
* **Fungi-packed Pasta Skillet:** Use a variety of wild mushrooms, such as chanterelle or oyster mushrooms, for a more earthy and exotic flavor.
With these variations and tips, you can create your own unique Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet, with flavors and textures that suit your taste.
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