why make this recipe
Spinach Artichoke Pasta is a delicious and creamy dish that combines the goodness of spinach and artichokes with the comforting taste of pasta. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion. It’s easy to prepare, satisfying, and a great way to add veggies to your meal. Plus, it uses simple ingredients that you might already have at home!
how to make Spinach Artichoke Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add chopped artichoke hearts and cook for about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the cream cheese and sour cream, mixing until smooth and well combined.
- Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
- Mix in the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top and let it melt slightly before serving. Enjoy your comfort food treat!
how to serve Spinach Artichoke Pasta
Serve Spinach Artichoke Pasta warm, straight from the skillet. You can add extra Parmesan cheese on top for an added flavor boost. This dish goes well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
how to store Spinach Artichoke Pasta
If you have leftovers, store the Spinach Artichoke Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat it, you can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little splash of milk or cream to keep it creamy.
tips to make Spinach Artichoke Pasta
- Make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it holds up well when mixed with the creamy sauce.
- You can add some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Try using a mix of different cheeses like cheddar or feta for different flavors.
variation
You can easily turn this into a vegan dish by using vegan cream cheese and sour cream, as well as a plant-based pasta. You could also add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish.
2. What other pasta shapes can I use?
You can use any pasta shape you like, such as rotini, farfalle, or spaghetti.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time. Just mix everything when you’re ready to serve.
Spinach Artichoke Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli) Use your preferred pasta shape.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped You can use frozen spinach if preferred.
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped Canned artichokes work well in this dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adjust garlic to taste.
Sauces and Cheeses
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Can substitute with other hard cheeses.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Can substitute with other melting cheeses.
Seasonings and Oils
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil For sautéing the garlic.
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cooking Sauce
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add chopped artichoke hearts and cook for about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the cream cheese and sour cream, mixing until smooth and well combined.
- Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
Final Mixing
- Mix in the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top and let it melt slightly before serving.