Ah, pasta – the ultimate comfort food. And when you add creamy spinach to the mix, it’s a match made in heaven! In this article, we’ll be diving into 20 delicious and easy-to-make creamy spinach pasta recipes perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. From classic alfredo dishes to bold and zesty flavors, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Whether you’re a spinach lover or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. And who can resist the allure of a warm, cheesy pasta dish fresh from the oven? Not us! So grab your fork and let’s get started with our top 20 creamy spinach pasta recipes.
Garlic Butter Spinach Pasta with Parmesan
This simple yet satisfying pasta dish is a perfect combination of savory, creamy, and nutty flavors. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Combine cooked pasta, garlic butter mixture, and reserved pasta water in a large serving bowl.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Pasta Bake
A rich and satisfying pasta bake packed with the flavors of sautéed mushrooms and spinach, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic until the vegetables are tender. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
4. In a separate saucepan, whisk together flour and milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom mixture, and creamy sauce in a baking dish. Top with cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Garlic Spinach Pasta with Shrimp
Brighten up your dinner routine with this zesty and flavorful pasta dish, featuring succulent shrimp, wilted spinach, and a tangy lemon garlic sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in lemon juice and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
5. Add spinach leaves to the skillet and wilt into the sauce.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the shrimp and spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this classic Italian-inspired dish, featuring tender shells filled with a rich spinach and ricotta mixture. This comforting casserole is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the shells and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
One-Pot Spinach and Tomato Pasta
This creamy pasta dish is a weeknight staple, packed with the flavors of spinach, tomatoes, and garlic. In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have a satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In the same pot, add olive oil, garlic, cherry tomatoes, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes or until tomatoes start to release their juices.
3. Add spinach leaves to the pot and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
4. Drain pasta and return it to the pot. Toss with tomato mixture, Parmesan cheese, and a splash of heavy cream (if using).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach Pesto Pasta with Pine Nuts
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the creaminess of pesto sauce with the nutty flavor of pine nuts, all wrapped up in a delightful spinach-filled pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup pine nuts
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a food processor, combine spinach, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Process until smooth.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top until well combined.
4. Add cooked pasta to the pesto mixture and toss until coated. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional pine nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Spinach Alfredo Pasta
A classic comfort food dish that’s quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the richness of cream, Parmesan cheese, and spinach with al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly ground nutmeg to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Casserole
A creamy, cheesy, and deliciously satisfying casserole that combines the flavors of spinach and artichokes with penne pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chopped artichoke hearts and spinach in butter until wilted.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and milk until smooth. Add cheddar and Parmesan cheese; stir until combined.
5. Combine cooked pasta, artichoke-spinach mixture, and cheese sauce in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Toss to combine.
6. Top with additional grated cheese (optional). Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Spinach Pasta with Chili Flakes
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of spinach with the bold heat of chili flakes, creating a simple yet satisfying pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chili flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add chili flakes to the skillet and stir well to combine with spinach.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the spicy spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Goat Cheese Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on classic pasta salad, this recipe combines the creaminess of goat cheese with the earthy flavor of spinach. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this salad is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bow-tie or penne work well)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, spinach leaves, goat cheese, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the top and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
In this quick and flavorful pasta dish, wilted spinach and sun-dried tomatoes come together to create a deliciously healthy meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunchtime pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet, stirring until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and spinach mixture in a serving bowl. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Sausage Pasta Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that combines the savory goodness of sausage with the nutrients of spinach, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper; bring to a simmer.
5. Add spinach leaves to the skillet; cook until wilted.
6. Combine cooked pasta with sausage mixture; toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Manicotti
This classic Italian dish gets a delicious twist with the addition of wilted spinach and crumbly feta cheese. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion, these stuffed manicotti are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12-14 manicotti shells
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook manicotti shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Wilt spinach leaves in the skillet by stirring constantly until they have reduced significantly.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked spinach, feta cheese, ricotta cheese, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stuff each manicotti shell with the spinach-feta mixture.
7. Place stuffed shells on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
9. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach Pasta with Garlic White Wine Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic, white wine, and spinach.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add white wine and chicken broth to the skillet. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
4. Stir in spinach leaves and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add butter and reserved pasta water to the sauce. Toss cooked spaghetti in the garlic-white wine sauce. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Bacon Carbonara Pasta
A creamy and indulgent pasta dish that combines the richness of bacon with the earthiness of spinach, all wrapped up in a velvety egg sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and Parmesan cheese. Add the reserved pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches desired consistency.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture, tossing to combine. Stir in the crispy bacon and wilted spinach.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes over low heat, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Chickpea Pasta with Tahini Dressing
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of tahini with the comfort of pasta, spinach, and chickpeas. A quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or linguine)
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté garlic and chickpeas over medium heat for 3-4 minutes or until the chickpeas are lightly toasted.
3. Add spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chickpea-spinach mixture, and tahini dressing. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
This recipe combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the earthiness of spinach, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup roasted red pepper strips (see note)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add roasted red pepper strips and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 30 seconds.
5. Combine cooked pasta, red pepper mixture, and salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Walnut Pasta with Brown Butter
This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of spinach and walnuts with the richness of brown butter to create a unique and satisfying pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until butter turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add chopped walnuts and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently, until they’re lightly toasted.
4. Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, brown butter mixture, salt, and pepper in a large serving bowl.
6. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Blue Cheese Pasta Bake
This rich and satisfying pasta bake combines the earthy flavor of spinach with the pungent tang of blue cheese, all wrapped up in a comforting casserole. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine blue cheese, Parmesan cheese, and milk. Mix well.
5. Combine cooked pasta, spinach mixture, and cheese mixture in a baking dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Caramelized Onion Pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the earthiness of spinach, all wrapped up in a comforting serving. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. Add chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta and onion-spinach mixture. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to revamp your weeknight dinners with these creamy spinach pasta recipes! From classic comfort foods like Garlic Butter Spinach Pasta with Parmesan, to international twists like Spicy Spinach Pasta with Chili Flakes, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick and easy one-pot meal or a show-stopping casserole, these 20 recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. With ingredients ranging from shrimp to goat cheese, these dishes are perfect for any occasion. So go ahead, get creative, and spin some deliciousness into your dinner routine!
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