If you’re craving a cozy, indulgent dish that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day, then this Creamy Spinach Artichoke Pasta Recipe That’s a Weeknight Winner Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with tender spinach, tangy artichokes, and a luscious, velvety sauce, this pasta is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that’s simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to serve guests. It’s a perfect balance of creamy richness and fresh brightness that will have you coming back for seconds every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this dish plays a special role, adding layers of flavor, texture, and color to create a harmonious and inviting meal. The list might be simple but every item is essential to bring that creamy, vibrant, and satisfying outcome.
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, fusilli, or any short pasta): Pick your favorite shape to hold onto the creamy sauce perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a lovely fruitiness and helps soften the garlic beautifully.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic base that’s irresistible.
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional): A hint of heat that gently teases the palate without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Essential to brighten and balance all the flavors.
- 5 ounces baby spinach: Brings freshness and a tender leafy bite to every forkful.
- 14-ounce can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped: Adds a subtle tang and delicate texture that pairs wonderfully with creaminess.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: The star of the sauce, creating that rich, velvety mouthfeel.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers savory depth and a slightly nutty finish.
- 1/2 cup milk or cream: Helps create an irresistibly smooth and silky sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of spice to enhance flavors.
- Zest of 1/2 lemon (optional): Lifts the dish with a fresh, citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Spinach Artichoke Pasta Recipe That’s a Weeknight Winner Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of pasta and cook until al dente, meaning it still has a bit of a bite. This is key because the pasta will continue to cook slightly when tossed in the sauce later. Before draining, reserve half a cup of the starchy pasta water — this will be your secret weapon for loosening the sauce if needed.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Chili
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and, if using, red chili flakes. Sauté for about a minute until the air fills with that amazing garlicky, slightly spicy aroma. This step sets the flavor foundation for the whole dish.
Step 3: Wilt Spinach and Add Artichokes
Next, add your fresh baby spinach to the skillet. It will seem like a lot at first, but spinach wilts down quickly, releasing vibrant green color and a mild sweetness. Once wilted, stir in the chopped artichoke hearts. Season with salt and black pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Turn the heat down to low and add the softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir it gently until it melts and begins to combine with the other ingredients. Then, slowly pour in the milk or cream, stirring continuously to form a smooth and luscious sauce that clings to every bite.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Lemon Zest
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts seamlessly into the sauce, enriching it with a nutty savoriness. If you’re feeling adventurous, add the zest of half a lemon to elevate the dish with a fresh, zingy pop that balances the creaminess.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now, it’s time to bring it all together. Toss the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your preferred consistency. Stir everything thoroughly so each piece gets luxuriously coated and warmed through.
Step 7: Serve Warm
Dish out your pasta while it’s hot, and don’t be shy about adding extra Parmesan and a dash of pepper or chili flakes on top. Those finishing touches add even more flavor and a beautiful presentation that invites everyone to dig in.
How to Serve Creamy Spinach Artichoke Pasta Recipe That’s a Weeknight Winner Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil make excellent garnishes, lending a pop of color and fresh aroma. If you want a bit more texture, toasted pine nuts add a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce. A final sprinkle of Parmesan is always a winner for that cheesy finish.
Side Dishes
This pasta is a substantial dish on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint. For something heartier, garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for sopping up every last bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a bit of fun, try serving this pasta in individual oven-safe ramekins topped with extra cheese and broiled briefly until golden and bubbly on top. Alternatively, toss in some grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein and a personal twist on this weeknight favorite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen a bit overnight, making it ideal for next-day lunches or dinners.
Freezing
While cream-based pasta dishes don’t always freeze perfectly due to texture changes, you can freeze this dish if needed. Use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 to 2 months for best taste. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To bring your Creamy Spinach Artichoke Pasta Recipe That’s a Weeknight Winner Recipe back to life, reheat on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently until warmed through and creamy again. Avoid the microwave if possible to preserve the sauce’s texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh artichokes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh artichokes can add a wonderful flavor and texture, but they require more prep time—trimming and boiling the hearts before chopping. For weeknight ease, canned artichoke hearts are a fantastic shortcut.
Is there a substitute for cream cheese in this recipe?
You could try mascarpone or ricotta for a different but still creamy consistency. Greek yogurt might work as well but add it off the heat to prevent curdling and keep the sauce smooth.
Can this recipe be made vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese and a plant-based milk like oat or almond milk. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan to add cheesy flavor while keeping it vegan-friendly.
How spicy is this recipe? Can I omit the chili flakes?
The chili flakes add just a subtle warmth, but you can definitely leave them out if you prefer a milder dish. The pasta will still be flavorful and comforting without the heat.
What type of pasta works best here?
Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rotini are best because their grooves and twists hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully, making each bite totally satisfying.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Spinach Artichoke Pasta Recipe That’s a Weeknight Winner Recipe is truly a gem in the kitchen for anyone looking for a fuss-free, soulful meal that shines with simple ingredients. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a special treat yet comes together easily on a busy evening. So, grab your skillet and get ready to whip up a creamy, cheesy, veggie-packed pasta that’s sure to become a fast favorite on your dinner rotation.
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Creamy Spinach Artichoke Pasta Recipe That’s a Weeknight Winner Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 3 to 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy spinach artichoke pasta is a delightful weeknight dinner that combines tender pasta with a rich, cheesy sauce packed with fresh spinach and tangy artichoke hearts. Easy to prepare in under 40 minutes, it’s perfect for a comforting meal that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, fusilli, or any short pasta)
- 5 ounces baby spinach
- 14-ounce can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
Sauce and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Zest of 1/2 lemon (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté garlic and chili flakes: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red chili flakes, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook spinach and artichokes: Add the baby spinach to the skillet and cook until just wilted. Stir in the chopped artichoke hearts, then season the mixture with salt and black pepper.
- Create the creamy sauce: Lower the heat and add the softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir until it begins to melt, then gradually add the milk or cream while stirring to form a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Add cheese and lemon zest: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon zest if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen it.
- Toss pasta in sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing well to coat every piece evenly with the creamy sauce. Warm through for a couple of minutes.
- Serve: Transfer the pasta to plates or a serving dish, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper or chili flakes if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a richer sauce, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone for a slightly different flavor.
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp to turn this into a protein-packed meal.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of chili flakes.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
