Creamy Spinach Pasta (Print Version)

One-pot pasta with fresh spinach and creamy cheese sauce for a quick, flavorful meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 10 oz penne or fusilli pasta (uncooked)

→ Vegetables

02 - 7 oz fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
03 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Dairy & Liquids

05 - 3 cups vegetable broth
06 - 3/4 cup plus 2 tbsp heavy cream
07 - 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
08 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
09 - 2 tbsp cream cheese

→ Seasonings

10 - 1/2 tsp dried oregano
11 - 1/2 tsp dried basil
12 - 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
13 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
14 - Pinch of chili flakes (optional)

→ Garnish

15 - Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
16 - Extra Parmesan cheese (optional)

# How To Make:

01 - Heat a splash of olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened.
02 - Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
03 - Stir in the uncooked pasta, vegetable broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle boil then reduce heat to a simmer.
04 - Add dried oregano, dried basil, ground nutmeg, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using. Stir well to combine.
05 - Cover and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
06 - Stir in chopped spinach and cream cheese. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and spinach is wilted, about 5 to 7 minutes.
07 - Incorporate mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and sauce is creamy.
08 - Adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • One pot casserole
  • Easy and quick to prepare
02 -
  • For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes
  • Substitute whole wheat pasta for added fiber
03 -
  • Ensure pasta is stirred occasionally to prevent sticking
  • Use fresh spinach for best flavor and color
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