Creamy Spinach Pasta One-Pot

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.

I have made this casserole many times and it always brings the family together for a quick and delicious meal.

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

Stir sauces, sauté vegetables, and serve meals gently while adding a charming touch to everyday cooking.

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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.

Stir sauces, sauté vegetables, and serve meals gently while adding a charming touch to everyday cooking.

Check price on Amazon

Stir sauces, sauté vegetables, and serve meals gently while adding a charming touch to everyday cooking.

Check price on Amazon

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My family loves to gather around the table enjoying this warm and creamy casserole, especially on cold nights.

Notes

For extra flavor add sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes. To make it vegan, use plant-based cream cheese, 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

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Bake lasagna, casseroles, and roasted dishes evenly, then serve straight from oven to table.

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This casserole delivers comfort and flavor in one dish perfect for busy nights and happy families.

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I make the pasta creamy without heavy cream?

Try substituting heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free option that still delivers creaminess.

→ Can I use a different type of pasta for this dish?

Yes, short pasta like penne or fusilli work best as they hold the sauce well, but others like rotini or rigatoni are also good choices.

→ What is the best way to prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir occasionally during simmering and ensure there’s enough liquid in the pot so the pasta cooks evenly without sticking.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers can add depth and flavor when sautéed before adding liquids.

→ How do I know when the pasta is perfectly cooked?

The pasta is al dente when it is tender but still slightly firm to the bite, which usually takes 10-12 minutes simmering with the sauce.