Creamy Garlic Spinach Penne
This Creamy Garlic Spinach Penne is SO EASY! Tender pasta in a luscious garlicky cream sauce with fresh spinach and Parmesan—ready in under 30 minutes.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Colander
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes optional
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- 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 package instructions until al dente (about 10-12 minutes). Drain the pasta using a colander and set aside. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water for later.
- In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn.
- Add chopped fresh spinach to the skillet with the garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted and bright green, stirring frequently.
- Pour 1 cup heavy cream into the skillet and stir to combine. Let simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.
- Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat. Sprinkle 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and incorporated. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to loosen.
- Transfer pasta to plates or serving bowl. Garnish with 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For added protein, toss in grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp.
- Swap penne for rigatoni or ziti for variety.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently with a splash of cream or water to restore sauce creaminess.