Save 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 recipe has become a favorite in my household because it's quick to make and packed with fresh flavors that everyone enjoys.
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 This casserole often brings my family together for a cozy dinner full of laughter and sharing stories after a long day.
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 glutenfree pasta if needed. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories 570, Total Fat 27 g, Carbohydrates 60 g, Protein 20 g (per serving)
Save This creamy spinach pasta casserole is comforting and easy to customize for your family's tastes.
Common Questions
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Penne or fusilli pasta are ideal as they hold sauce well and maintain texture after simmering.
- → Can I use fresh spinach instead of baby spinach?
Yes, fresh spinach can be used; just chop it roughly and adjust cooking time until wilted.
- → How do I know when the pasta is perfectly cooked?
The pasta is al dente when tender but still firm to the bite, usually after 5–7 minutes of simmering with spinach and cream cheese.
- → Is it possible to make this dish vegan-friendly?
Absolutely, replace dairy ingredients with plant-based cream and cheeses, and opt for vegan pasta varieties.
- → Can I add extra vegetables to this casserole?
Yes, sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or other favourite vegetables can be added for additional flavor and texture.
- → What garnishes work well with this creamy dish?
Fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan enhance both flavor and presentation.