Farfalle Pasta with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Caramelized Onions

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Farfalle Pasta with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Caramelized Onions

Creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor—this Farfalle Pasta with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Caramelized Onions is an Italian-inspired meatless dish that satisfies every craving. Bow-tie pasta is tossed in a rich and buttery Parmesan cream sauce, mingled with savory mushrooms, earthy spinach, and sweet caramelized onions. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight vegetarian main or pairing it with grilled chicken, this one-pan pasta is always a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Vegetarian & hearty: No meat needed to feel full and satisfied.
  • Family-friendly: A creamy, cheesy dish that even picky eaters will devour.
  • Versatile: Great as-is or customizable with proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp.
  • Comfort food made easy: Simple steps, big flavor!

Ingredients

For the Caramelized Onions:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

For the Pasta and Sauce:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 10 oz button mushrooms, sliced
  • 6 oz fresh spinach
  • 1 cup half-and-half
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ tsp salt (or to taste)
  • Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
  • 8 oz farfalle (bow-tie) pasta
  • Optional: Red pepper flakes or fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions

  1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add sliced onions and sprinkle with ¼ tsp salt.
  3. Cook slowly, stirring often, for 20–25 minutes until deeply golden and caramelized.
  4. Stir in balsamic vinegar and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

2. Cook the Pasta

  1. While the onions cook, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add farfalle and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain and set aside.

3. Sauté the Mushrooms and Spinach

  1. In the same skillet, add another 1 tbsp olive oil.
  2. Sauté the mushrooms over medium heat until browned and softened, about 5–7 minutes.
  3. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce

  1. Lower heat and stir in half-and-half.
  2. Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
  3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

5. Assemble

  1. Add cooked farfalle and caramelized onions to the sauce.
  2. Toss everything together until well coated and heated through.
  3. Garnish with extra Parmesan, cracked pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Tips & Variations

  • Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans.
  • Make it vegan: Swap half-and-half for coconut cream and use a vegan Parmesan alternative.
  • Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta.

Storage

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Gently reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

 

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