Do Share Recipe

Pasta with Spinach Recipe | Creamy, Quick, and Delicious

I just made this pasta with spinach recipe, and I can’t stop thinking about how creamy and flavorful it turned out. It’s one of those meals that feels indulgent but comes together in no time. I love that it’s packed with fresh spinach, rich cream cheese, and a hint of nutmeg that makes it extra special.

The best part? It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests. Let me walk you through how I made it and share tips to make it even better. If you enjoy creamy meals, you can also enjoy Gyro Bowls Recipe for a quick twist on a protein-packed dish.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make this creamy pasta with spinach. I like to use fresh, high-quality ingredients because it makes a noticeable difference in flavor.

Pasta

8 oz (225 grams) pasta – I use penne or rigatoni for the best sauce coating. Spaghetti works too if you prefer long noodles.

Spinach Sauce

1 tbsp olive oil – Extra virgin is best for flavor.
2-3 garlic cloves, finely sliced or minced – Fresh garlic gives a fragrant punch.
9 oz (250 grams) baby spinach, washed – Fresh spinach wilts beautifully; frozen tends to be watery.
¼ tsp fine salt, plus more to taste – Enhances the natural flavors.
5 oz (140 grams) cream cheese – Adds creaminess without overpowering the spinach.
1 oz (30 grams) freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus more to serve – Freshly grated cheese melts better and tastes richer.
¼ tsp ground nutmeg, or ⅓ of freshly grated nutmeg – Nutmeg balances the creaminess and spinach perfectly.
Black pepper, to taste – Adds a gentle heat.

Note: several servings

Variations

This recipe is versatile, so feel free to customize:

Dairy-free: Use vegan cream cheese and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.
Protein add-ins: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or cooked bacon for extra heartiness.
Extra vegetables: Cherry tomatoes, peas, or roasted bell peppers add color and flavor. You might also try Roasted Jalapeno Popper Grilled Cheese for a fun, spicy side.
Flavor enhancers: A squeeze of lemon or a pinch of chili flakes can brighten the dish.

Cooking Time

Here’s the timing to help you plan your meal:

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Equipment You Need

Large skillet – Perfect for wilting spinach and making the sauce.
Medium pot – For boiling pasta.
Wooden spoon or spatula – To stir the sauce without scratching the pan.
Cheese grater – Freshly grated parmesan is key for flavor.
Colander – To drain pasta.

How to Make Pasta with Spinach Recipe

Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling the pasta in salted water until al dente. I always reserve a little pasta water before draining, which helps loosen the sauce later.

Sauté Garlic and Spinach

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, then gradually add spinach, stirring until wilted and vibrant green.

Make the Creamy Sauce

Add cream cheese and a splash of pasta water to the skillet. Stir in parmesan cheese and nutmeg, creating a silky sauce that clings to every noodle.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss until fully coated in the creamy spinach sauce. Adjust consistency with more pasta water if needed and season with salt and pepper.

Serve Immediately

Transfer to plates, drizzle with extra olive oil, and sprinkle additional parmesan if desired. Serve warm for the best flavor.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

Here’s what I learned from making this dish multiple times:

I like to add spinach gradually – it wilts faster and cooks evenly.
I never skip freshly grated parmesan; it makes a huge flavor difference.
Keep the pasta water handy to adjust sauce consistency; it helps the sauce cling perfectly.
A pinch of nutmeg really elevates the dish; don’t skip it!
Serve immediately; leftovers lose a bit of creaminess if left too long.

How to Serve Pasta with Spinach Recipe

I like to serve this pasta with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and extra parmesan on top. A few toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of olive oil makes it look gourmet. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For presentation, I swirl the pasta on the plate and garnish with a small spinach leaf or grated cheese.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:

Calories: 544 kcal – Perfect for a hearty meal.
Protein: 18 g – From pasta, cheese, and optional add-ins.
Carbohydrates: 55 g – Provides energy for the day.
Fat: 28 g – From olive oil, cream cheese, and parmesan.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors deepen, but the sauce may thicken.

Freezing

I don’t recommend freezing cream-based pasta, as the texture can change. If necessary, freeze without pasta and add fresh pasta when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or olive oil. Avoid high heat to prevent curdling the cream cheese.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this pasta with spinach is my go-to weeknight dinner:

Quick and easy – Ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
Creamy yet light – Rich flavor without feeling heavy.
Versatile – Works with various pastas, proteins, and vegetables.
Healthy and flavorful – Packed with nutrient-dense spinach and fresh ingredients.
Customizable – You can adjust seasoning, cheese, or add-ins to your liking.

This creamy pasta with spinach recipe is simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. I always keep the ingredients on hand because it’s a reliable dish that comes together fast and pleases everyone at the table. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your favorites too.

Ben Carraoli