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 spaghetti or fettuccine; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: No-Fuss Collection

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta for its rich and comforting flavors that brighten up any weeknight dinner. With every bite, the creamy sauce envelops the pasta perfectly, and the fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and taste. This dish is quick and easy to prepare, taking no more than 30 minutes from start to finish. It has become a family favorite, and I often find myself experimenting with different cheeses and herbs to elevate the flavors even more.

Created by

Briony Ashcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-21T19:18:37.200Z

When I first tried my hand at making pasta with a creamy sauce, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could transform into something so indulgent. The secret to achieving the perfect creaminess lies in the combination of cream and a touch of pasta water, which creates a silky texture that clings beautifully to the noodles. My version incorporates fresh garlic and spinach, which not only adds flavor but also keeps the dish light and vibrant.

One of the best tips I can share is to sauté the spinach just until wilted before adding the cream. This step allows the spinach to maintain its color and nutrients while infusing the sauce with a lovely earthy flavor. I often serve this dish with a sprinkle of parmesan and a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra kick!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy sauce with a hint of garlic
Nutritious spinach adds both flavor and color
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

The Role of Spinach

Fresh spinach not only enhances the dish's nutritional value but also provides a delightful texture and fresh flavor that balances the richness of the cream and cheese. When selecting spinach, opt for vibrant, crisp leaves without any wilting. This ensures that every bite bursts with freshness. Adding the spinach in the sautéing step allows it to retain its bright green color while softening just enough to blend seamlessly with the sauce.

To incorporate more greens without overwhelming the dish, consider mixing in other leafy vegetables like kale or Swiss chard. Just chop them finely and cook them alongside the spinach. This approach keeps the delightful green color while enhancing the nutrition profile even further.

Perfecting Your Cream Sauce

Achieving a smooth and creamy sauce is key to this dish. When you add the heavy cream to the sautéed garlic and spinach, ensure to reduce the heat to low to avoid curdling. You want the mixture to gently warm and combine, creating a glossy texture. If you notice the sauce seems too thick, the reserved pasta water is your best friend—such a simple yet effective tip that helps you control the consistency without losing flavor.

The choice of cheese is also crucial for flavor. Parmesan is traditional, but for a more robust taste, consider mixing in a bit of Pecorino Romano or even a sharp cheddar. Just remember to adjust the seasoning since these cheeses can be saltier than Parmesan.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious pasta dish:

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional)

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

Sauté Garlic and Spinach

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, add the fresh spinach and cook until just wilted.

Make the Cream Sauce

Reduce heat to low, then pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Gradually add the parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.

Serve immediately, garnished with more parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sautéing mushrooms with the garlic or using different cheese varieties like goat cheese or feta. This dish also pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, avoid using the microwave as it can make the pasta rubbery. Instead, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the texture and prevent drying out.

This dish does not freeze well due to the cream sauce, which can separate when thawed. So, it’s best enjoyed fresh. However, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just make sure to give it a good stir and reheat slowly before mixing it with freshly cooked pasta.

Variations to Try

This recipe opens the door for several delicious variations. Try adding cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost; just toss them in after the garlic is sautéed to heat through. For a bit of zest, consider incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts—these add depth and a unique burst of flavor that elevates the dish.

If you're looking for a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with a mixture of Greek yogurt and a bit of pasta water to create a creamy yet tangy sauce. This swap not only reduces calories but also enhances the dish's protein content, making it a wholesome option without sacrificing flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta.

→ How can I make this dish lighter?

You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or substitute some of the cream with vegetable broth.

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the skillet.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can incorporate mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even asparagus for added flavor and nutrition.