Creamy Spinach Pasta Casserole (Print Version)

One-pot dish blending tender pasta with spinach and creamy cheese sauce for simple, flavorful meals.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 10 oz penne or fusilli pasta (uncooked)

→ Vegetables

02 - 7 oz fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
03 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Dairy & Liquids

05 - 3 cups vegetable broth
06 - 3/4 cup plus 2 tbsp heavy cream
07 - 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
08 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
09 - 2 tbsp cream cheese

→ Seasonings

10 - 1/2 tsp dried oregano
11 - 1/2 tsp dried basil
12 - 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
13 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
14 - Pinch of chili flakes (optional)

→ Garnish

15 - Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
16 - Extra Parmesan cheese (optional)

# How To:

01 - Heat a splash of olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened.
02 - Incorporate minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
03 - Add uncooked pasta, vegetable broth, and heavy cream, then bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to a simmer.
04 - Stir in dried oregano, dried basil, ground nutmeg, salt, black pepper, and optional chili flakes, ensuring even distribution.
05 - Cover skillet and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
06 - Stir in chopped spinach and cream cheese, continuing to cook for 5 to 7 minutes until pasta is al dente and spinach wilts.
07 - Mix in grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and sauce becomes creamy.
08 - Taste and modify salt and pepper as needed.
09 - Dish up hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • One pot casserole perfect for quick meals
  • Creamy cheese sauce with fresh spinach
02 -
  • Use gluten free pasta to make this vegan if needed
  • Adding sautéed mushrooms or sun dried tomatoes boosts flavor
03 -
  • Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking
  • Use fresh spinach for best texture and flavor
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