Spinach Artichoke Pasta recipe

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When it comes to indulging in comforting meals that burst with flavor, Spinach Artichoke Pasta stands out as a top contender. This creamy, delightful dish combines hearty pasta with the rich, savory tastes of spinach and artichokes, resulting in a satisfying meal that is both delicious and nourishing. 

Why We Love This Spinach Artichoke Pasta Recipe

Imagine a plate filled with spirals of pasta coated in a creamy spinach and artichoke sauce that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a sense of comfort and warmth. The brilliance of Spinach Artichoke Pasta lies in its versatility. It balances the richness of cream cheese and sour cream with the earthy freshness of spinach and the delightful tang of artichokes. This combination creates a dish that is both luscious and light. You might find yourself whipping it up repeatedly, thanks to its straightforward cooking process and easy-to-find ingredients.

Ingredients for Spinach Artichoke Pasta

When preparing Spinach Artichoke Pasta, having the right ingredients is key to achieving great flavor and texture. Here’s a handy list of what you will need to bring this dish to life:

  • 16 ounces bite-size pasta (choose from fusilli, bow tie, elbow, or penne)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 5 ounces frozen chopped spinach, partially thawed
  • 7 ounces canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 8 ounces sour cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water or chicken broth, as needed

With these ingredients on hand, you are ready to embark on a cooking adventure that promises a delicious outcome.

How to Make Spinach Artichoke Pasta Directions

Getting started with your Spinach Artichoke Pasta is easy and fun. Here’s a step-by-step guide you can follow to create this creamy, satisfying dish.

  • Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add your chosen pasta and cook it according to the directions on the package until it reaches al dente. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. When the pasta is done, drain it in a colander, but don’t forget to reserve about a cup of the pasta cooking liquid.

  • Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, you can start preparing the sauce. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Once the butter has melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the partially thawed spinach and chopped artichoke hearts to the pan. Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables have become tender.

  • Mix in Creamy Ingredients: Next, add the softened cream cheese and sour cream to the vegetable mixture. Stir it well, letting the cream cheese melt and blend with the other ingredients. Keep stirring occasionally, ensuring a nice, creamy consistency.

  • Add Cheese and Season: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and kosher salt. Continue cooking while stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce has thickened slightly; this should take about 2 minutes.

  • Combine Pasta and Sauce: Now it’s time to incorporate the pasta! Add the cooked pasta into the saucepan with the creamy spinach-artichoke sauce. If you notice that the pasta appears a bit dry, gradually mix in some of the reserved pasta water or chicken broth. Stir until everything is well combined and the pasta is nicely coated with the sauce.

  • Serve and Enjoy: Your Spinach Artichoke Pasta is now ready to delight your taste buds. Serve it immediately, topped with an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

How to Serve Spinach Artichoke Pasta

Serving your Spinach Artichoke Pasta can elevate the dining experience. Here are a few tips to make your presentation appealing:

  • Garnish: Consider using freshly chopped herbs, such as parsley or basil, to sprinkle over the top. This adds a pop of color and extra freshness to your dish.
  • Serve Warm: This pasta dish is best enjoyed warm. Serve it straight from the stove for that comforting, inviting vibe.
  • Pairing: For a complete meal, consider serving your pasta with a side salad or steamed vegetables. The freshness of a simple green salad can beautifully complement the creamy richness of the pasta.
  • Individual Portions: You could also serve the pasta in individual bowls, making it a delightful option for dinner parties or gatherings.

Expert Tips: Spinach Artichoke Pasta

To ensure your Spinach Artichoke Pasta turns out perfect every time, consider the following expert tips:

  • Pasta Cooking: Always check the pasta after their cooking time has elapsed to ensure it maintains al dente texture, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
  • Creamy Consistency: If you desire an even creamier sauce, consider adding a little more cream cheese or sour cream to achieve your preferred consistency.
  • Flavor Boost: If you enjoy a hint of zest, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
  • Fresh Spinach Option: While frozen spinach is convenient, using fresh spinach can enhance your dish’s texture and taste. If using fresh, sauté it until wilted before adding the cream cheese mixture.
  • Cheese Variations: If you want to experiment with flavors, consider adding other cheeses like mozzarella for stretchiness or feta for a tangy punch.

How to Store Spinach Artichoke Pasta

If you find yourself with leftovers after making this delightful dish, storing it properly will keep it fresh for your future meals:

  • Refrigeration: Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
  • Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave. To avoid dryness, splash in a bit of water or broth, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Variation of Spinach Artichoke Pasta

Spice up your Spinach Artichoke Pasta by exploring different variations that cater to your taste preferences:

  • Protein Boost: Consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for an added protein kick.
  • Healthy Swap: For a lighter version, try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to align with dietary needs.
  • Vegan Alternative: You can easily modify this recipe by using vegan cream cheese and plant-based sour cream, along with nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese for a delicious vegan option.
  • Added Vegetables: Feel free to toss in other vegetables such as sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.

FAQ: Spinach Artichoke Pasta

What makes Spinach Artichoke Pasta so delicious?

The delightful combination of creamy textures from the cheese and the vibrant flavors of spinach and artichokes give this pasta dish its signature rich taste.

Can I make Spinach Artichoke Pasta ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and mix it with cooked pasta just before serving. This helps enhance the flavors.

What is the best way to store leftovers of Spinach Artichoke Pasta?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it cools before sealing for the best quality.

Can I freeze Spinach Artichoke Pasta?

While it’s possible to freeze this dish, the creamy sauce may change in texture. If you plan to freeze, it’s best to skip the cheese mix and add it after thawing.

Spinach Artichoke Pasta recipe

Spinach Artichoke Pasta

This creamy, delightful dish combines hearty pasta with savory spinach and artichokes, creating a satisfying meal that’s both delicious and nourishing.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 16 ounces bite-size pasta fusilli, bow tie, elbow, or penne
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 5 ounces frozen chopped spinach partially thawed
  • 7 ounces canned artichoke hearts drained and chopped
  • 8 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 8 ounces sour cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt adjust to taste
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water or chicken broth as needed

Instructions
 

  • Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta cooking liquid, then drain.
  • Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Add the partially thawed spinach and chopped artichoke hearts. Cook for about 5 minutes until tender.
  • Mix in the softened cream cheese and sour cream, stirring until well combined and creamy.
  • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and kosher salt. Cook until the cheese has melted and the sauce thickens slightly, about 2 minutes.
  • Add the cooked pasta to the saucepan and mix well. If the pasta seems dry, gradually add reserved pasta water or chicken broth until desired consistency is reached.
  • Serve immediately, topped with extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

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Notes

Garnish with freshly chopped herbs for added freshness and color.
Keyword pasta, vegetarian