Creamy Garlic Spinach Penne

If you’re craving a comforting pasta dish that is both rich and vibrant, then this Creamy Garlic Spinach Penne recipe is exactly what you need. Featuring tender penne pasta enveloped in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce with fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese, this meal comes together quickly and easily. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavor and texture that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Spinach Penne is a total crowd-pleaser for so many reasons. First, it’s incredibly creamy without feeling heavy, thanks to the combination of heavy cream and fresh spinach. The garlic adds a beautiful aromatic depth, while the Parmesan cheese brings a nutty, savory finish. It’s quick to make—ready in under 30 minutes—which is ideal for busy schedules. Plus, it’s flexible enough to pair with your favorite protein or enjoy on its own as a satisfying vegetarian meal. If you adore dishes like Creamy Spinach Ricotta Manicotti, this penne is a fresh way to enjoy those same comforting flavors with a twist.

Shopping List

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Appliances & Accessories

• Large pot – for boiling the penne pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan – to make the creamy garlic sauce
• Colander – to drain cooked pasta
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – for stirring the sauce
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure precise ingredients
• Knife and cutting board – for chopping spinach and garlic

Creamy Garlic Spinach Penne in Steps

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add the 8 oz penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta using a colander and set it aside. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water to adjust the sauce later if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, but be careful not to burn it. The garlic is the star here and will infuse the sauce with incredible flavor.

Step 3: Add the Spinach

Add the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet with the garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and bright green. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour 1 cup of heavy cream into the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic and spinach. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream slightly thickens. Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste. The gentle simmer will help the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese

Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the creamy spinach sauce. Toss well to coat every piece of pasta. Sprinkle 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir until melted and fully incorporated. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the creamy garlic spinach penne to plates or a serving bowl. Garnish with 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy!

Make It Your Way

• Add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for extra protein and flavor, similar to the delicious additions found in Creamy Spinach Feta Chicken Orzo.
• Swap out penne for other pasta shapes like rigatoni or ziti for a fun twist. You might also want to try Creamy Roasted Garlic Spinach Ziti for inspiration.
• For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich.
• Incorporate other greens such as kale or Swiss chard to vary the texture and nutrients.
• Toss in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a burst of sweetness and color.

Problems & Prevention

• Sauce too thin: Let it simmer a bit longer to thicken or add more Parmesan cheese gradually.
• Sauce too thick: Use reserved pasta water or a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
• Garlic burns: Keep the heat medium to low when sautéing garlic. Garlic cooks quickly and can turn bitter if overcooked.
• Pasta sticks together: Stir the pasta occasionally during boiling and rinse with warm water after draining if not serving immediately.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

Store any leftover Creamy Garlic Spinach Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream, milk, or water to help revive the sauce’s creaminess. Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the cream sauce may change upon thawing.

Common Qs About Creamy Garlic Spinach Penne

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the sauce to avoid diluting the cream.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream, and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast for the cheesy flavor.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce to elevate the heat level to your liking.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce and chop the ingredients ahead, but it’s best to cook the pasta fresh to avoid it becoming mushy. Assemble and heat right before serving.

Desserts to Finish

• Lemon Olive Oil Cake – A light, citrusy cake that complements creamy dishes perfectly.
• Chocolate Hazelnut Tart – Rich and indulgent for a decadent finish.
• Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta – Silky smooth and subtly sweet.
• Berry Crumble – Fresh berries with a crunchy topping for a cozy dessert.

See You at the Table

There’s something truly special about gathering around a warm plate of pasta that tastes like it was made with love and care. This Creamy Garlic Spinach Penne is the kind of recipe that brings comfort and joy to any meal, whether it’s a casual dinner for one or a festive gathering with family and friends. I hope you enjoy making it as much as you enjoy eating it. Don’t forget to experiment with your favorite add-ins and share this cozy dish with those you love. Your next favorite pasta night awaits!

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