Some dishes are more than just meals—they’re a celebration of simplicity, comfort, and the joy of savoring every bite. Easy Creamed Spinach Pasta is one such dish. This recipe combines the creamy richness of a classic creamed spinach with the satisfying heartiness of pasta, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and comforting. Imagine tender pasta tossed in a velvety spinach sauce, infused with garlic, Parmesan, and a hint of nutmeg. It’s a dish that feels like a warm embrace, whether you’re serving it for a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy date night, or a family gathering.

The first time I made this dish, it was on a busy weeknight when I needed something quick yet satisfying. I had a bag of fresh spinach in the fridge and a box of pasta in the pantry, and the idea of combining them into a creamy, flavorful dish just clicked. As the pasta cooked and the spinach wilted into the creamy sauce, the kitchen filled with the comforting aroma of garlic and Parmesan. When I served it, my family couldn’t get enough. “This is so good!” my daughter said, twirling another forkful of pasta. “Can we have this again tomorrow?” Since then, Easy Creamed Spinach Pasta has become a regular on our dinner rotation.

The first time I served this dish to guests, it was at a small dinner party. One of my friends, who’s a self-proclaimed spinach lover, was particularly intrigued. “Creamed spinach and pasta? I’ve never thought of that combination,” she said. As soon as she took her first bite, her eyes widened. “This is amazing! The flavors are so rich, but it still feels light,” she remarked. Another friend, who’s usually skeptical of vegetarian dishes, went back for seconds. “I could eat this every day,” he said with a smile. That night, Easy Creamed Spinach Pasta became a crowd favorite, and it’s been a go-to recipe for entertaining ever since.

Why This Easy Creamed Spinach Pasta?

Selling Points:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Creamy and Comforting: The rich, velvety sauce makes this pasta feel indulgent yet wholesome.
• Versatile: Serve it as a main dish or a side, and customize it with your favorite add-ins.
• Nutritious: Packed with spinach, this dish is a delicious way to get your greens.

What You Need for Easy Creamed Spinach Pasta

Ingredients:

• For the Pasta:
  • 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your favorite shape)
  • Salt, for boiling water
• For the Creamed Spinach Sauce:
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 10 oz fresh spinach (or frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)

How to Make Easy Creamed Spinach Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Wilt the Spinach: Add the spinach to the skillet in batches, stirring until wilted. If using frozen spinach, squeeze out excess water before adding it to the skillet.
4. Create the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
6. Serve: Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large bowl. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and a pinch of red pepper flakes for garnish.

Tips for the Perfect Creamed Spinach Pasta

• Fresh Spinach: If using fresh spinach, make sure to wash it thoroughly and remove any tough stems.
• Pasta Water: Don’t skip reserving the pasta water—it helps create a silky, cohesive sauce.
• Cream Substitute: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream.
• Add Protein: Boost the dish with cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for added flavor and texture.

Substitutions and Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with olive oil, the heavy cream with coconut cream, and the Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative.
• Extra Veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Herb Boost: Stir in fresh basil, parsley, or thyme for a burst of freshness.

Make a Healthier Version

• Light Cream: Use light cream or a milk-and-cornstarch mixture to reduce the calorie content.
• Whole Wheat Pasta: Opt for whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber and protein.
• Less Cheese: Reduce the amount of Parmesan or use a lighter cheese alternative.

Closing for Easy Creamed Spinach Pasta

This Easy Creamed Spinach Pasta is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of simplicity, flavor, and the joy of sharing something delicious with loved ones. Whether you’re serving it for a quick dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t forget to let us know how your pasta turns out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more culinary inspiration. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Creamed Spinach Pasta

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it gently before tossing it with freshly cooked pasta.

Can I freeze this dish?
While the sauce can be frozen, the pasta may become mushy upon reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using.

Can I add meat to this dish?
Absolutely! Cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon are great additions.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the butter, cream, and cheese with dairy-free alternatives.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any pasta shape works well with this sauce.

What’s the best way to serve this dish?
Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

This Easy Creamed Spinach Pasta is a testament to the magic of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is a must-try. So, gather your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!

Easy Creamed Spinach Pasta

Recipe by Aisha DevCourse: All Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• For the Pasta:

• 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your favorite shape)

• Salt, for boiling water

• For the Creamed Spinach Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 10 oz fresh spinach (or frozen spinach, thawed and drained)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)

Directions

• Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
• Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
• Wilt the Spinach: Add the spinach to the skillet in batches, stirring until wilted. If using frozen spinach, squeeze out excess water before adding it to the skillet.
• Create the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
• Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
• Serve: Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large bowl. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and a pinch of red pepper flakes for garnish.