Why You’ll Love Pasta with Spinach Recipe
This recipe is ideal for busy days when you want something homemade but don’t have much time. It uses basic pantry staples and fresh spinach to create a satisfying meal in about 15 minutes.
You’ll love how the creamy sauce gently coats every bite of pasta while the spinach adds color, freshness, and a boost of nutrients. It’s a versatile recipe that can easily be customized with extra vegetables or protein, making it suitable for the whole family.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
pasta of your choice
baby spinach
olive oil
garlic cloves
salt
black pepper
cream cheese
freshly grated parmesan cheese
ground nutmeg
Directions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
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While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant, making sure it does not brown.
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Add the fresh spinach to the skillet in batches, stirring gently until wilted. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
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Stir in the cream cheese along with a splash of the reserved pasta water. Mix until the cream cheese melts and forms a smooth sauce. Add grated parmesan and a small pinch of nutmeg, stirring until creamy and well combined.
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Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. If needed, add a little more reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
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Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Serve immediately with extra parmesan on top if desired.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 portions
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences. Add halved cherry tomatoes for brightness and color, or stir in frozen peas for a slightly sweet touch.
For extra protein, mix in grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy . If you prefer a lighter texture, substitute cream cheese with ricotta. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be used without changing the cooking method.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat on the stovetop, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat and add a splash of water or milk to help loosen the sauce. Stir gently until warmed through.
If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. The sauce may thicken in the fridge, so adding a small amount of liquid will help restore its creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach works well. Thaw it completely and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the pan.
What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni holds the creamy sauce beautifully, but spaghetti or linguine also work well.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can replace cream cheese and parmesan with dairy-free alternatives. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be flavorful.
How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
Adding reserved pasta water a little at a time helps keep the sauce smooth and silky.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, it is vegetarian as written. Just ensure the parmesan you use is suitable for vegetarians if needed.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely. Mushrooms, zucchini, roasted peppers, or broccoli are all great additions.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare it a few hours in advance and gently reheat before serving.
How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic for a subtle kick.
Can I freeze this pasta?
Freezing is possible, but cream-based sauces can slightly change texture after thawing. Reheat gently and add liquid if needed.
What can I serve with this pasta?
A simple green salad and some crusty bread make perfect side dishes to complete the meal.
Conclusion
This easy pasta with spinach is proof that simple ingredients can create a satisfying and elegant meal. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s creamy, comforting, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you keep it classic or add your own twist, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite for quick and delicious dinners.
