Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta

Name: Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne); 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Collection

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta on busy weeknights when I crave something comforting yet simple. The rich sauce, made with fresh spinach and fragrant garlic, coats the pasta beautifully, transforming basic ingredients into a luscious meal. With minimal prep and cook time, this dish not only satisfies my taste buds but also provides a nutritious boost from the spinach. It’s a recipe I often revisit and tweak with different herbs or cheeses, making it versatile and perfect for any Italian dinner at home.

Created by

Rachel Green

Last updated on 2026-01-21T17:49:04.556Z

Preparing Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta has become a delightful tradition in my kitchen. I discovered that incorporating a splash of reserved pasta water into the sauce creates that perfect creamy texture without needing heavy cream. It’s a simple tip that makes all the difference, allowing the sauce to cling beautifully to each strand of pasta.

Another trick I love is sautéing the garlic just until fragrant before adding spinach. This step enhances the flavor, infusing the oil and giving the entire dish an aromatic depth that’s simply irresistible. Each bite is a reminder of why I cherish quick, homemade meals.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Lush creamy sauce with a burst of garlic flavor
Packed with fresh spinach for a hearty touch
Wholesome and satisfying, perfect for any day

Nutritional Benefits of Spinach

Spinach is not only a flavorful addition to this Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta, but it also brings a host of nutritional benefits. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium, this leafy green enhances the dish’s health profile. Incorporating spinach helps balance the creamy sauce, making it a hearty yet nutritious meal choice. Plus, its vibrant green color adds a beautiful visual appeal, making your plate enticing.

To maximize nutrition, consider using fresh, organic spinach if available. Alternatively, frozen spinach can work in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the dish. The difference in flavor between fresh and frozen spinach can be subtle, but the texture is crucial for allowing the creamy sauce to adhere and create a smooth coating.

Tips for the Perfect Sauce

Creating the creamy sauce involves some attention to detail. When adding the heavy cream to the sautéed garlic and spinach, be sure to reduce the heat to medium-low to prevent the cream from boiling, which can lead to curdling. Stirring continuously allows the Parmesan cheese to melt evenly, forming a luscious texture that's not overly thick or overly runny. You want it to cling to the pasta beautifully, creating a comforting coating.

If you find the sauce is too thick during the mixing process, don't hesitate to incorporate some of the reserved pasta water. Start with a few tablespoons and mix until you reach your desired consistency. This starchy water not only loosens the sauce but also helps it adhere better to the noodles, giving the dish a cohesive, elegant finish.

Serving and Variations

Serving Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta is a chance to get creative. While the dish is delightful as is, you can elevate it further by garnishing with toasted pine nuts or crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of crunch and heat. Pair it with a light side salad for a complete meal, or serve alongside garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce.

Feel free to experiment with variations as well. Adding grilled chicken or shrimp can transform this into a heartier entrée, making it suitable for a cozy family dinner. For a vegetarian twist, substitute the Parmesan with a nutritional yeast blend to create a dairy-free version. Adjusting the herbs also brings new dimensions to the dish—consider fresh basil or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for an aromatic enhancement.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

12 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.

Sauté Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add Spinach

Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Create the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and add the Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and combined. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor even more, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. You can also substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta can be prepared ahead of time! Cook the pasta, sauté the garlic and spinach, and combine them with the cream and cheese just before you’re ready to eat. This way, you can enjoy a quick meal on busy weekdays without compromising on flavor. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

When reheating, be mindful to do so gently. Use a skillet over low heat rather than a microwave to prevent the sauce from separating. Add a splash more cream or reserved pasta water during reheating, which helps restore the creamy texture for your leftover servings.

Common Troubleshooting Issues

One common issue when making creamy sauces is separation, which can occur if the cream is boiled too vigorously. To prevent this, always maintain a medium-low heat after adding the cream. If you find your sauce has separated, whisking in a bit of hot pasta water can help bring it back together smoothly.

Another thing to watch out for is the consistency of your sauce. If it becomes too thick, remember that the right touch of reserved pasta water can save the day. It’s a game-changer for achieving the ideal creamy texture, ensuring that each bite is perfectly coated without overwhelming the pasta.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to the skillet.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter option.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

To make it vegan, use plant-based cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine and penne are great options, but feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer.