Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta

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There’s nothing quite as comforting as a big bowl of creamy pasta, and this Spinach and Artichoke Pasta is everything you want in a cozy, satisfying meal. It’s rich, flavorful, and packed with wholesome veggies, making it an indulgent yet nourishing option for dinner.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s the perfect way to elevate humble pantry staples into something truly special.

Decadent Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta

Spinach and artichokes are a classic flavor combination that pairs wonderfully with the velvety cream sauce in this recipe. The earthy, slightly tangy artichokes complement the fresh, vibrant spinach perfectly. Tossed with al dente pasta, this dish is a celebration of texture and taste.

I’ve kept the seasoning light and fresh, letting the natural flavors of the ingredients shine through. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself on a weeknight, this pasta is guaranteed to impress.

It’s vegetarian-friendly, customizable, and so comforting, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Ingredients for Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta

The magic of this pasta recipe lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients that come together to create an irresistibly creamy dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Pasta – I prefer fettuccine or spaghetti, but any long pasta works beautifully. You can also use gluten-free pasta if needed.
• Spinach – Fresh baby spinach is ideal for its tender texture and mild flavor. You could also use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water.
• Artichoke Hearts – Canned or jarred artichoke hearts (packed in water or brine) are perfect here. Drain and roughly chop them for easy use.
• Heavy Cream – Creates the luscious, velvety sauce. Half-and-half can be used for a lighter option, though it won’t be as rich.
• Cream Cheese – Adds a tangy creaminess to the sauce and helps thicken it.
• Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan takes the flavor to the next level. Save some extra for garnishing!
• Garlic – A couple of minced garlic cloves infuse the sauce with aromatic depth.
• Olive Oil – Used for sautéing the garlic and spinach. Choose a high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
• Salt and Pepper – To taste, enhancing all the natural flavors of the dish.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, but they add a lovely hint of heat to balance the richness.

This ingredient list is simple yet versatile, allowing you to swap items based on your preferences. Add mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even protein like chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal!

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How to Make Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta

Creating this creamy pasta is as easy as it is delicious. Follow these simple steps to bring this dish to life:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Sauté the Spinach and Garlic

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add the spinach and sauté until wilted. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

• In the same skillet, add the heavy cream and cream cheese over medium heat. Stir until the cream cheese melts into the sauce, creating a smooth consistency. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and thickened.

Step 4: Add Artichokes and Spinach

• Toss the chopped artichoke hearts and sautéed spinach into the sauce, stirring to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes, if desired.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Use the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

• Plate the creamy spinach and artichoke pasta, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a final touch.

This dish comes together in no time and delivers all the comfort and flavor you’re craving!

How Long to Cook Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta

One of the best things about this recipe is how quickly it comes together. You’ll spend most of your time prepping and assembling the creamy sauce. Here’s a quick breakdown of the cooking process:

Cooking Times:

• Pasta – Cooking the pasta takes about 8–12 minutes, depending on the type and brand you choose. Always check for an al dente texture.
• Sautéing Garlic and Spinach – This step is super quick, taking only 3–4 minutes.
• Making the Cream Sauce – Melting and mixing the cream cheese, Parmesan, and heavy cream will take about 5 minutes to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Tossing the Pasta – Coating the pasta with the sauce and reheating everything will only take 2–3 minutes.

Key Cooking Tips:

• Reserve Pasta Water – Don’t forget to save about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining. It’s your secret weapon for creating a perfectly smooth and clingy sauce.
• Don’t Overcook the Spinach – Sauté the spinach just until wilted. Overcooking can make it soggy and lose its vibrant color.
• Watch the Sauce – Stir the cream sauce frequently to prevent it from scorching or clumping. Keep the heat at medium or lower for the best results.
• Taste and Adjust – After combining everything, taste the dish and adjust the seasonings as needed. Sometimes, a pinch more salt or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavors.

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How to Store and Reheat

This creamy spinach and artichoke pasta tastes amazing fresh, but it also makes great leftovers!

Storage:

• Refrigerator – Store the pasta in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezer – While creamy sauces can sometimes separate when frozen, this dish freezes decently if stored in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:

• Stovetop – Add the pasta to a skillet with a splash of milk or cream over medium-low heat. Stir gently until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe dish, adding a bit of milk or cream, and stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

Serving Tips:

Leftover creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with fresh salad, garlic bread, or even roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

This recipe is not only quick to make but also easy to save and enjoy later, making it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights!

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