Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta

Name: Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta of your choice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making this Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of fresh spinach and aromatic garlic creates a beautiful flavor profile that is perfect for any weeknight dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll find this dish coming together in under 30 minutes. It's rich, creamy, and will quickly become a family favorite at our table.

Created by

Rosie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:25:14.087Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed by how quickly it came together without sacrificing flavor. The creamy sauce is made from a simple mixture of cream and Parmesan, which clings beautifully to the pasta. Plus, cooking the spinach just enough to wilt helps it release its vibrant color and nutrients without turning it mushy.

A tip that really elevates this dish is to add a pinch of nutmeg to the cream sauce, which enhances the flavors of the garlic and spinach. I recommend using fresh garlic for that burst of flavor that transforms a simple pasta into a restaurant-quality meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that comforts the soul
Quick preparation means more time to enjoy with family
Nutritious spinach adds a healthy twist to your dinner

      

Understanding the Creamy Texture

The key to achieving the perfect creamy texture in this pasta dish lies in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. The cream is a rich base, providing a luscious mouthfeel that coats the pasta beautifully. When you add the cheese, make sure to stir continuously to help it melt evenly. If the sauce starts to separate or look grainy, lowering the heat will help bring it back together. Remember, a low and slow approach allows the flavors to meld without risking separation.

For those looking to lighten up the dish, Greek yogurt can be substituted for part of the heavy cream. This swap will provide creaminess without the extra fat, though it will change the flavor slightly. To avoid curdling when adding yogurt to a hot mixture, temper it first by mixing a small amount of the hot sauce into the yogurt before combining it back into the pan.

Perfectly Wilting Spinach

When sautéing the spinach, it’s crucial not to overcook it. Aim for just 2-3 minutes of cooking until it’s wilted but still vibrant green. Overcooked spinach can turn a dull color and lose its nutritional benefits. The moment the spinach starts to shrink, you’ll know it’s time to add the cream. To add more depth to the flavor, consider incorporating other greens, such as arugula or kale, which can add a peppery bite that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

If you’re pressed for time, you can use frozen spinach instead of fresh. Just make sure to thaw and drain it to remove excess moisture before adding it to the skillet. This will prevent your sauce from becoming too watery and help maintain the desired creaminess in the final dish.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delightful Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta.

Ingredients for Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta

12 oz pasta of your choice
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

These ingredients come together for a comforting dish that everyone will love!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta quickly and easily.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Add Spinach

Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.

Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and the sauce thickens.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat. If needed, add reserved pasta water for a thinner sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.

Serve

Dish out the creamy pasta and enjoy it warm, optionally garnished with more Parmesan or fresh herbs.

Now, sit back and enjoy your deliciously creamy pasta!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider topping the pasta with toasted pine nuts or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta can stand alone as a full meal, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. A crisp Caesar salad or some garlic bread can complement the dish without overwhelming it. I often serve it with a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini, which brings a nice balance of textures and flavors, enhancing your dining experience.

If you want to add protein, grilled chicken or shrimp can be delicious stir-ins. Simply toss them in along with the cooked pasta. If you are preparing it for meal prep, consider the protein addition to keep everything cohesive and satisfying throughout the week.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To prevent pasta from becoming mushy, I recommend storing the sauce and pasta separately if you have extra sauce. The sauce can also be frozen for up to a month, thawed, and gently reheated on low heat.

When reheating, add a splash of water or a bit more cream to the pasta to restore its creamy texture, and heat it low to avoid any curdling of the cream. Stir frequently to ensure an even heat distribution, and enjoy it as if it was freshly made!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pasta gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary needs.

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to the dish.

→ What other ingredients can I add?

You can include grilled chicken, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for additional flavor.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or cream.