Description
This Creamy Spinach Pasta is a quick and comforting dish featuring tender pasta enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce infused with garlic, spinach, and a hint of lemon. Perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal, it balances creamy textures with fresh greens for a delightful Italian-inspired dinner.
Ingredients
Spices and Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 teaspoons lemon juice
Dairy and Fats
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 cup half and half (half milk, half cream)
- ¾ cup Parmesan cheese (finely grated from a block)
Produce
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 ½ cups fresh spinach
Pantry
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ pound ziti rigati (penne works well too)
Instructions
- Prep Work: Heat salted water in a large pot to prepare for cooking the pasta. Measure out all ingredients beforehand, as the sauce comes together quickly.
- Cook Pasta: Once the water boils, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions, ensuring not to overcook. Drain and set aside.
- Start the Sauce – Melt Butter and Garlic: In a skillet over medium-low heat, melt the salted butter. Let it heat for about 2 minutes until it starts to foam and turn slightly brown, lifting and swirling the pan occasionally. Then add the minced garlic and continue heating until fragrant.
- Add Flour: Increase heat to medium and whisk in the all-purpose flour. Cook the roux for about 2 minutes until it develops a darker brown tone and the raw flour smell dissipates.
- Incorporate Chicken Broth: Slowly add the chicken broth in splashes while continuously stirring to create a smooth sauce base.
- Add Half and Half: Gradually stir in the half and half to the sauce, combining it well for a creamy consistency.
- Season and Flavor: Stir in dried oregano, parsley, mustard powder, garlic powder, and lemon juice to enhance the sauce's flavor profile.
- Add Cheese and Spinach: Reduce heat to low, mix in the finely grated Parmesan cheese, and then add the fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the sauce, mixing thoroughly to coat all the pasta. Allow the sauce to thicken further while standing before serving.
- Serve: Plate the creamy spinach pasta and optionally serve with garlic bread topped with cheese for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Do not overcook the pasta to avoid mushiness; al dente texture works best.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is preferred for better melting and flavor.
- The sauce will thicken more as it cools, so adjust consistency with a splash of broth or half and half if needed before serving.
- Add cooked chicken or mushrooms for additional protein and texture variations.
