Save to Pinterest 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 is a go-to recipe on hectic evenings when I want something warm and satisfying with minimal cleanup.
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 2 3 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 5 7 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 to Pinterest This casserole always brings my family together, especially on chilly evenings when comfort food is a must.
Notes
For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or sun dried tomatoes. Substitute whole wheat pasta for added fiber. To make it vegan, use plant based cream, cheese, and pasta.
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 gluten free pasta if needed. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Save to Pinterest 
This creamy spinach pasta casserole is a delicious and easy meal perfect for any weeknight.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use different types of pasta for this dish?
Yes, penne or fusilli works best to hold the sauce, but other short pasta shapes like rigatoni or rotini can also be used.
- → Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute dairy cream and cheeses with plant-based alternatives, and choose vegan pasta varieties.
- → What can be added for extra flavor?
Sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes can enhance the dish's depth and complement the creamy texture.
- → How do I ensure the pasta cooks evenly in one pot?
Maintain a gentle simmer and stir occasionally to prevent sticking, allowing the pasta to cook fully and absorb the flavors.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated and gently reheated, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.