Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of cheese and spinach pasta with this easy-to-follow recipe. A perfect blend of rich flavors and healthy greens, ready in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients
For the Pasta
250g pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)
For the Sauce
2 tablespoons butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups milk (whole milk or heavy cream for extra creaminess)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Spinach
2 cups fresh spinach leaves (washed and chopped)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
Optional Garnishes
Additional grated Parmesan
Fresh parsley, chopped
Cracked black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions (usually 8–10 minutes).
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Spinach
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add the spinach and sauté for 2–3 minutes until wilted. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for 1–2 minutes.
Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the sautéed spinach to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
Toss in the cooked pasta, ensuring each piece is coated in the creamy sauce.
If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Plate the pasta, sprinkle additional Parmesan and fresh parsley on top, and add a touch of black pepper for garnish.
Serve warm with garlic bread or a side salad.
Notes
Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh spinach and freshly grated cheese enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Pasta Water is Key
Always reserve some pasta water before draining. It’s starchy and can be used to adjust the consistency of the sauce without diluting the flavor.
Choose Your Pasta Wisely
While penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta
Aim for al dente texture to ensure the pasta holds up well when tossed with the sauce.
Season Gradually
Add salt and pepper in small increments to avoid overpowering the dish, as the cheese itself adds a salty component.
Customize the Recipe
Feel free to add proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon for a more filling meal. For a vegetarian option, roasted mushrooms or chickpeas are excellent additions.
Make it Lighter
Substitute heavy cream with low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk if you want a lighter version of the sauce.
Vegan Version
Replace dairy with vegan cheese, nutritional yeast, and plant-based milk to make the dish entirely plant-based.
Reheating Tip
When reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.
Experiment with Herbs and Spices
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten the flavors, while a pinch of nutmeg or chili flakes adds depth and a hint of spice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes