Creamy Spinach Pasta Casserole (Printable)

Comforting one-pot pasta with fresh spinach and creamy cheese sauce, ideal for easy family dinners.

# 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 tablespoons heavy cream
07 - 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
08 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
09 - 2 tablespoons cream cheese

→ Seasonings

10 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
11 - 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
12 - 1/4 teaspoon 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)

# Directions:

01 - Heat a splash of olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened.
02 - Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
03 - Stir in uncooked pasta, vegetable broth, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to maintain a simmer.
04 - Add dried oregano, dried basil, ground nutmeg, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes if using. Stir thoroughly to combine.
05 - Cover and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
06 - Mix in chopped spinach and cream cheese. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and spinach has wilted, about 5 to 7 minutes.
07 - Stir in grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and sauce achieves a creamy consistency.
08 - Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • One pot meal
  • Sure to please the whole family
02 -
  • Contains milk (cream, cheese) and wheat (pasta)
  • May contain gluten use gluten free pasta if needed
03 -
  • Add sautéed mushrooms or sun dried tomatoes for extra flavor
  • Use whole wheat pasta for a fiber boost
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