The aroma of sautéed garlic fills the kitchen as vibrant green spinach wilts down to create a creamy sauce that clings perfectly to al dente pasta. This Pasta with Spinach Sauce comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a quick and delightful meal option. The combination of cream cheese and parmesan creates a rich, comforting texture that elevates your everyday pasta dish.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a simple yet satisfying weekend dinner. It’s an excellent option for families looking to sneak in some greens in a delicious way. If you prepare too much, just store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for another meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The cream cheese adds a silky texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
- Using fresh spinach provides a bright color and nutritional boost.
- It’s easy to whip up in just 20 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- The combination of garlic and nutmeg creates a warm, comforting flavor profile.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create your dish.
For the Pasta
- 8 oz (225 grams) pasta, any type (penne, rigatoni, spaghetti…)
For the Sauce
- 1 Tbsp olive oil or extra virgin olive oil
- 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
- Black pepper, to taste
Use dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan option.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Spinach: kale or Swiss chard
- Cream cheese: ricotta for a lighter option
- Parmesan: nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative
- Olive oil: avocado oil for a different flavor
How to Make It
Get ready to create a delicious meal with these simple steps.
1. Cook pasta
Cook your pasta until al dente following the package directions. Before draining, reserve at least ½ cup of pasta cooking water and set aside.
2. Sauté garlic
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for about 1 or 2 minutes until fragrant (make sure you don’t burn it).
3. Add spinach
Add part of the spinach and season with salt. Stir until wilted, adding handfuls of spinach at a time.
4. Incorporate cream cheese
When the spinach is wilted but still bright green, stir in the cream cheese and ⅓ cup of pasta cooking water. Save the rest in case you need to loosen the sauce.
5. Finish sauce
Add grated parmesan cheese and nutmeg to the sauce and stir well. The sauce will be ready in a couple of minutes.
6. Combine pasta and sauce
Drain the pasta, add it to the skillet, and toss to combine. Serve immediately with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, black pepper, and freshly grated parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
How to Store It
Fridge: store for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, cream cheese doesn’t freeze well.
Reheat: microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
- Cook pasta just until al dente to maintain its texture when combined with the sauce.
- Reserve extra pasta water for adjusting the sauce’s consistency as needed.
- Use fresh nutmeg for a more intense flavor.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the sauce at its creamiest.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with crusty garlic bread for a hearty meal.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad for balance.
- Great for a cozy dinner night with friends or family.
