cheesy food
This Cheesy Garlic Spinach Pasta is a creamy and indulgent dish that combines the richness of cheese with the freshness of spinach. Perfect for a comforting dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this dish is sure to please cheese lovers and vegetable fans alike!
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 colander
- 1 large skillet
- 1 wooden spoon
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
- 1 cheese grater
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (fusilli or penne)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 oz fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed and drained)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta using a colander.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not burned.
- Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and sauté until wilted, about 3-4 minutes (if using frozen spinach, heat until warmed through).
- Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well and allow to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese to the cream mixture, stirring continuously until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta with the cheese sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
- Serve the cheesy garlic spinach pasta immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Feel free to add cooked chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms for a more hearty meal.
This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Pair this pasta with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.