Print

Quick and Creamy Weeknight Spinach Pasta

Close-up of creamy spinach pasta tossed in a rich green sauce and topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

You need a fast, comforting dinner that tastes rich but comes together quickly. This creamy spinach pasta uses simple ingredients to create a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound pasta (penne or fettuccine recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 5 ounces fresh baby spinach
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
  3. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet in batches. Stir until all the spinach has wilted down completely. This happens fast.
  4. Reduce the heat to low. Add the cubed cream cheese, heavy cream, and the pinch of nutmeg, if using. Stir constantly until the cream cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
  5. Stir in the 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated. Season the sauce with salt and pepper.
  6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated.
  7. If the sauce seems too thick, add the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired creamy consistency.
  8. Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • For a brighter flavor, add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice along with the heavy cream.
  • If you want to add protein, cook 1 pound of diced chicken breast or shrimp separately and toss it in with the cooked pasta in Step 6.
  • To make this a one-pot meal, cook your pasta directly in the sauce base using extra broth or water instead of reserving pasta water, stirring frequently.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kingscook.com/creamy-spinach-pasta-quick-dinner-ideas/