Save to Pinterest A comforting and flavorful one-pot casserole featuring tender pasta, fresh spinach, and a creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights and sure to please the whole family.
This dish has become a staple on our table, perfect for quick dinners and loved by all ages.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) penne or fusilli pasta (uncooked)
- Vegetables: 200 g (7 oz) fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped, 1 medium onion, finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Dairy & Liquids: 700 ml (3 cups) vegetable broth, 200 ml (3/4 cup + 2 tbsp) heavy cream, 120 g (1 cup) grated mozzarella cheese, 50 g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tbsp cream cheese
- Seasonings: 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp dried basil, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, Salt and black pepper, to taste, Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
- Garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped (optional), Extra Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 23 minutes until softened.
- Step 2:
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Stir in the uncooked pasta, vegetable broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Step 4:
- Add the dried oregano, basil, nutmeg, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using. Stir well.
- Step 5:
- Cover and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Step 6:
- Add the chopped spinach and cream cheese. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the spinach is wilted (about 57 minutes).
- Step 7:
- Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Step 8:
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 9:
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Save to Pinterest Our family always gathers around the table eagerly when this casserole is served, creating cherished moments.
Notes
For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or sun dried tomatoes. Substitute whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
Required Tools
Large deep skillet or Dutch oven, cutting board and knife, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups and spoons.
Allergen Information
Contains milk (cream, cheese) and wheat (pasta). May contain gluten use gluten free pasta if needed. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
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This creamy spinach pasta casserole is a quick, comforting meal perfect for any night of the week.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Penne or fusilli pasta work well as they hold sauce and cook evenly in the one-pot method.
- → Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Fresh spinach is preferred for texture and flavor, but well-drained frozen spinach can be substituted if needed.
- → How can I make the dish vegan-friendly?
Replace dairy cream and cheeses with plant-based alternatives and choose vegan pasta to keep it plant-based.
- → Is it important to stir while cooking?
Occasional stirring prevents the pasta from sticking and ensures even cooking and creamy sauce development.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor of the sauce?
Dried oregano, basil, and a pinch of nutmeg complement the creamy sauce and fresh spinach beautifully.