Farfalle with spinach, mushrooms, and caramelized onions is a comforting and elegant pasta dish that brings together earthy vegetables, sweet caramelized onions, and a buttery sauce to coat every bite. The bow-tie-shaped farfalle captures the flavors perfectly, making this a satisfying vegetarian meal for weeknights or cozy dinner gatherings.
This dish balances simplicity with depth of flavor, thanks to the slow-cooked onions, sautéed mushrooms, and a touch of parmesan. It’s easy to make, requires no cream or heavy sauces, and highlights the natural sweetness and umami of the ingredients.
For equally comforting dishes, try this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin or the bold and spicy Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza.
Credit: Pinterest
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz farfalle pasta
Bow-tie pasta is ideal for catching bits of vegetables and sauce in its folds.
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
Caramelized slowly to bring out their natural sweetness. - 2 tablespoons olive oil
Used for sautéing the onions. - 1 tablespoon butter
Adds richness and helps deepen the caramelization. - Pinch of salt
Helps draw out moisture during cooking.
For the Mushroom and Spinach Mixture:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For sautéing. - 10 oz cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
Earthy and savory, mushrooms add meaty texture. - 3 cups baby spinach
Lightly wilted into the dish for freshness. - 3 garlic cloves, minced
Adds aromatic depth to the mix. - Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Finishing:
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
Melts slightly into the hot pasta for a light cheesy finish. - 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
For a glossy final touch. - Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Adds freshness and color.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes (includes onion caramelizing)
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Pasta pot
- Tongs or pasta fork
- Cutting board and sharp knife
How to Make Farfalle with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Caramelized Onions
1. Start the Caramelized Onions
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring often, for about 25–30 minutes until deeply golden and caramelized. Lower the heat if they start to burn. Set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the farfalle according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain the rest.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms and Spinach
In the same skillet used for the onions (or a separate one if needed), heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes to get color. Stir and cook for another 2–3 minutes until tender. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add spinach and sauté until just wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine Everything
Return the caramelized onions to the skillet. Add the cooked farfalle and a splash of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together with parmesan cheese and 1 tablespoon butter (optional) until well combined and glossy.
5. Serve
Serve hot, garnished with more parmesan and chopped parsley if desired.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 430
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 310mg
Tips and Variations
Use Different Mushrooms:
Shiitake or oyster mushrooms can add even more umami depth.
Add White Wine:
Deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine before adding the spinach for extra flavor.
Make it Vegan:
Skip the butter and cheese or use plant-based alternatives.
Add Protein:
Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a more filling meal.
Use Another Pasta Shape:
Penne, fusilli, or rigatoni also work well in this recipe.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat:
Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen the pasta.
Freezer:
This dish is best enjoyed fresh; freezing may alter the texture of the vegetables.
Why This Recipe Works
Farfalle with spinach, mushrooms, and caramelized onions is proof that simple, high-quality ingredients can create deeply satisfying meals. The natural sweetness from the onions, earthy mushrooms, and the mild bitterness of spinach balance each other beautifully. The farfalle pasta gives it texture and charm, while parmesan and butter pull everything together in a cohesive dish that feels elevated without being fussy.
Final Thoughts
This dish is an excellent go-to for meatless Mondays, dinner parties, or when you want something hearty but not heavy. It’s easy to make, flexible to adapt, and sophisticated enough to impress. Farfalle with spinach, mushrooms, and caramelized onions brings comfort and elegance to your table—one bite at a time.
Credit: Pinterest
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the skillet.
Can I use red onions?
You can, though yellow onions caramelize more easily and have a milder sweetness.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Make the components ahead and toss them together right before serving.
What’s the best substitute for farfalle?
Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or fusilli are great alternatives.
For a heartier twist on classic comfort, don’t miss these Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes.
farfalle with spinach, mushrooms, and caramelized onions
Ingredients
Method
- Caramelize the Onions:
- In a large skillet over medium-low heat, add 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Add sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring often, for about 20–25 minutes, until deeply golden and sweet. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta:
- While onions caramelize, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook farfalle pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
- Sauté the Mushrooms:
- In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and butter. Add mushrooms and cook on medium heat until browned and tender, about 5–7 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Add Garlic and Spinach:
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Then add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
- Combine Everything:
- Add caramelized onions back to the skillet. Toss in the cooked farfalle and a splash of reserved pasta water to help coat everything in the flavorful mixture.
- Finish and Serve:
- Stir in Parmesan if using, and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Swap farfalle for penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti if desired.
- Add a splash of white wine or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
- For a heartier meal, stir in cooked chicken or white beans.
- Make it vegan by skipping the Parmesan and using plant-based butter.
