Creamy Spinach Pasta Casserole

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.

I first made this casserole on a hectic weeknight and it quickly became a family favorite for its simplicity and rich flavor.

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

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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 2 3 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 5 7 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

Dispense soap hands-free for quick handwashing and easier cleanup while cooking and handling ingredients.

Check price on Amazon

Dispense soap hands-free for quick handwashing and easier cleanup while cooking and handling ingredients.

Check price on Amazon

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This dish always brings my family together for a cozy dinner and plenty of compliments around the table.

Notes

To make it vegan use plant-based cream cheese cheese and pasta

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 casserole is perfect for a quick weeknight meal yet feels like a special treat every time.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, penne or fusilli work best for even cooking, but other short pasta shapes can be substituted without affecting texture.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

Use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives, along with gluten-free pasta if needed, to maintain similar creaminess and flavor.

→ What is the best way to avoid pasta sticking during cooking?

Stir occasionally while simmering to keep the pasta separated and cook evenly in the creamy broth.

→ Can additional vegetables be added?

Sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes make excellent additions and enhance the dish’s flavor profile.

→ How do I achieve a creamy sauce without it becoming too thick?

Simmer gently and add the cheeses gradually, stirring until melted. If needed, adjust liquid with vegetable broth to desired consistency.