Save A comforting and flavorful one-pot casserole featuring tender pasta, fresh spinach, and a creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights and sure to please the whole family.
I first served this to my family on a busy weeknight and they loved how creamy and satisfying it was without a lot of fuss.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) penne or fusilli pasta (uncooked)
- Vegetables: 200 g (7 oz) fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped, 1 medium onion, finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Dairy & Liquids: 700 ml (3 cups) vegetable broth, 200 ml (3/4 cup + 2 tbsp) heavy cream, 120 g (1 cup) grated mozzarella cheese, 50 g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tbsp cream cheese
- Seasonings: 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp dried basil, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, Salt and black pepper, to taste, Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
- Garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped (optional), Extra Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2 3 minutes until softened.
- Step 2:
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Stir in the uncooked pasta, vegetable broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Step 4:
- Add the dried oregano, basil, nutmeg, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using. Stir well.
- Step 5:
- Cover and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Step 6:
- Add the chopped spinach and cream cheese. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the spinach is wilted (about 5 7 minutes).
- Step 7:
- Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Step 8:
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 9:
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Save This dish quickly became a family favorite and is often requested for dinner gatherings and casual meals alike.
Required Tools
Large deep skillet or Dutch oven, Cutting board and knife, Wooden spoon or spatula, Measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains milk (cream, cheese) and wheat (pasta). May contain gluten use gluten free pasta if needed. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories 570, Total Fat 27 g, Carbohydrates 60 g, Protein 20 g (per serving)
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This creamy spinach pasta casserole brings comfort and ease to any meal with just a few simple steps.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, penne or fusilli work best to hold the sauce, but any medium-size pasta shapes will do.
- → Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute the cream and cheeses with plant-based alternatives to keep it creamy and rich.
- → How do I know when the pasta is perfectly cooked?
Cook until the pasta is al dente, tender but still firm to the bite, usually about 5 to 7 minutes after adding the spinach and cream cheese.
- → Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes are great additions to boost flavor and texture.
- → What herbs complement this pasta sauce?
Dried oregano, basil, and a pinch of nutmeg create a well-rounded aromatic profile perfect for this creamy dish.
- → Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it reheats well and maintains its creamy texture, making it an excellent option for quick meals throughout the week.