Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta

Name: Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta of choice (fettuccine or penne work well); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta because it's such a comforting dish that brings together rich flavors and creamy textures. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up a meal that's satisfying and delicious. The vivid green of the spinach combined with the aromatic garlic creates a delightful aroma that fills my kitchen. Plus, it's a quick recipe that I can easily prepare on a busy weeknight, making it a staple in my household.

Created by

Ariana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:07:19.361Z

When I first tried making Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta, I was amazed at how quickly it all came together. The secret is to sauté the garlic just until fragrant, ensuring it doesn't burn while still imparting its flavor into the cream. I also like to use fresh spinach, which wilts beautifully and adds a vibrant color to the dish.

Another tip I discovered is to reserve a bit of pasta water when draining the pasta. This starchy water is perfect for adjusting the sauce consistency, making it perfectly creamy without being too thick. It’s a small step, but it makes a huge difference!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy flavor that comforts your soul
Quick to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
Nutritious spinach hidden in a delicious sauce

      

The Importance of Garlic

Garlic is the star ingredient in this Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta, imparting a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish. When sautéed, garlic transforms into a golden-brown delight that releases sweet, nutty notes. To avoid bitterness, be sure to watch it closely, as it can burn quickly. If you find the taste of garlic too strong, roasting it beforehand can mellow its intensity while adding a lovely caramelized flavor.

For a smoother texture, consider using garlic paste or puree. This can be incorporated into the olive oil for sautéing, creating an even distribution of garlic flavor throughout the dish. Using fresh garlic cloves is preferable due to their vibrant taste, but if you're in a pinch, granulated garlic can be a quick alternative—just be mindful to adjust the quantity as it is more concentrated.

Spinach: A Nutritional Powerhouse

Spinach not only contributes a bright, fresh flavor but also packs a nutritional punch. It's rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and antioxidants. In this recipe, the cooking method ensures that the spinach is wilted just enough to maintain its vibrant color and nutritional value. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, so aim to cook it for just 2-3 minutes until it's wilted but still retains a bit of bite.

If you're looking to switch up the greens, kale or Swiss chard can be great substitutes. They provide similar nutritional benefits and add a unique flavor profile. Just remember that these greens may require a slightly longer cooking time to break down their fibrous texture; sauté them for about 4-5 minutes until tender.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, storing this pasta is straightforward. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth to the pasta in a skillet over medium heat. This helps to revive the creamy sauce, ensuring it remains luscious and preventing it from drying out.

For longer storage, consider freezing the pasta without the sauce for optimal texture. The sauce can be frozen separately. When ready to enjoy, thaw them both in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove. This allows you to enjoy a comforting meal even on your busiest days.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you begin to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Ingredients

8 oz pasta of choice (fettuccine or penne work well)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Once your ingredients are prepped, you're ready to dive into cooking!

Instructions

Following these steps will lead you to a delicious creamy pasta dish.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to let it burn.

Add Spinach

Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Create the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until achieving desired consistency.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if desired.

Your Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta is ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an added protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas to the pasta once combined with the sauce.

Perfect Pasta Cooking Techniques

Cooking the pasta to al dente is crucial for achieving the best texture in your dish. This means it should be cooked until it's just firm to the bite, avoiding mushy pasta that can absorb too much sauce. To ensure this, follow the package instructions closely and taste a piece a minute or two before the suggested cooking time is up. If you're using a different pasta type, be mindful of the variations in cooking times, as whole wheat or gluten-free options may require adjustments.

Salt your boiling water generously before adding the pasta. This is essential not only for flavor but also to help the pasta maintain its structure. A well-salted cooking water will enhance the taste of the pasta, allowing it to infuse flavor right from the start.

Enhancing the Sauce's Creaminess

For an extra creamy department, consider incorporating cream cheese or ricotta into the sauce. Whisking a few tablespoons of cream cheese into the heavy cream can create an even silkier texture. If you're looking to lighten the dish, you could substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a non-dairy alternative without sacrificing too much creaminess.

Once the Parmesan cheese is added, it not only thickens the sauce but also brings a salty, nutty flavor to balance against the richness. Ensure that you use freshly grated Parmesan for the best results, as pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly.

Customizing Your Dish

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Simply sauté these separately and mix them into the pasta when combining it with the sauce. If you're looking for added texture, toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts right before serving for a satisfying crunch.

Herbs can also enhance the overall flavor. Fresh basil, parsley, or even a pinch of nutmeg can add aromatic complexity to your dish. If you want an earthy flavor, consider adding a touch of thyme or oregano. The key is to balance these flavors without overpowering the dish's natural creaminess and garlic notes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess water in the dish.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative for a lighter version.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, use a vegan cream and Omnivore cheese substitute, like nutritional yeast, for a dairy-free version.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water or cream.