Farfalle, commonly known as “bow-tie pasta,” adds a playful touch to any dish while perfectly capturing creamy sauces. This recipe combines farfalle pasta, sautéed mushrooms, and spinach in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce, creating a comforting and indulgent meal. Packed with nutrients from spinach and offering rich flavors from mushrooms, it’s a dish that pleases both your palate and your health-conscious side. At only 390 calories per serving, this pasta is satisfying without being overly heavy.
For more pasta inspirations, check out our pasta recipes. To learn about the health benefits of spinach, visit this article.
Servings and Prep Time
- Serves: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz farfalle pasta
- Water for boiling
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions (typically 10-12 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden and tender. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add the fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt, which should take about 2 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently to combine with the vegetables. Gradually mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked farfalle to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in small amounts of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Divide the pasta into bowls, garnish with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired, and serve warm.
Tips and Tricks
Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh spinach and Parmesan will make a significant difference in the dish’s overall flavor and texture.
Make It Your Own
Feel free to incorporate grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. You can also substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.
Feel free to add or remove ingredients according to your taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy farfalle pasta is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The earthy mushrooms complement the fresh spinach, while the Parmesan cream sauce ties everything together beautifully. For more pasta recipes, explore our other options here.
