Description
This Pasta with Spinach Sauce is a perfect blend of creamy and cheesy goodness with the freshness of baby spinach. The garlic-infused olive oil adds depth to the sauce, while the Parmesan and cream cheese create a rich, velvety texture that clings to every strand of pasta. With a hint of nutmeg, this dish brings comfort and warmth, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients
Pasta:
8 oz (225 grams) pasta (penne, rigatoni, spaghetti, etc.)
Spinach Sauce:
1 Tbsp olive oil or extra virgin olive oil, plus more to serve
2–3 garlic cloves, finely sliced or minced
9 oz (250 grams) baby spinach, washed
¼ tsp fine salt, plus more to taste
5 oz (140 grams) cream cheese
1 oz (30 grams) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more to serve
¼ tsp ground nutmeg, or ⅓ of freshly grated nutmeg, or according to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve at least 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water and set it aside.
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure it doesn’t burn.
Add the baby spinach in batches, seasoning with salt as you go. Stir until wilted, adding more spinach until all of it is wilted but still bright green.
Stir in the cream cheese and 1/3 cup of the reserved pasta cooking water. Mix until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese and nutmeg to the sauce, stirring well to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add more of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the spinach sauce. Toss to combine until the pasta is evenly coated.
Serve immediately with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a sprinkle of black pepper, and additional freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 350