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Creamy Bow Tie Pasta with Mushrooms, Spinach, and Garlic Parmesan Sauce


  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Creamy bow tie pasta with mushrooms, spinach, and a garlicky Parmesan sauce—an easy, comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Ready in just 30 minutes!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz bow tie (farfalle) pasta
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 oz mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/8 tsp nutmeg (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.
  2. Sauté the Mushrooms: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and tender, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add Garlic and Spinach: Reduce heat slightly. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in fresh spinach and let it wilt, about 1-2 minutes.
  4. Prepare the Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and milk, stirring gently. Heat through without boiling. Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and sauce thickens.
  5. Season to Taste: Add salt, black pepper, and optional nutmeg for depth of flavor. Sprinkle in red pepper flakes if desired.
  6. Combine Everything: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, stirring to coat with sauce. If too thick, add reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
  7. Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Protein Options: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon.
  • Cheese Variations: Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk or cashew cream; replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bow tie pasta.
  • Extra Vegetables: Add sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or artichoke hearts.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Pasta, Comfort Food
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: italian

Keywords: creamy pasta, bow tie pasta, garlic Parmesan sauce, spinach pasta, mushroom pasta