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; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 5 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional); Red pepper flakes for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I have always been a fan of pasta, but this Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta takes it to a whole new level. The combination of fresh spinach and rich garlic creates a deliciously creamy sauce that clings to every noodle. It’s an easy dish to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner or to impress guests. Plus, I love how quickly it comes together, allowing me to enjoy a cozy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. I can’t wait to share this delightful recipe with you!

Created by

Ella Townsend

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:01:22.683Z

Making this pasta dish has been a wonderful culinary adventure for me. The vibrant colors of the fresh spinach against the creamy sauce not only look stunning but also taste incredible. I experimented with adding a hint of nutmeg, which transformed the flavor profile beautifully. It’s a tip I picked up from a friend who swears by it, and now I can’t imagine making it without!

Another exciting part of this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily add in other vegetables or proteins if you want to customize it. The creamy garlic sauce is a base that pairs well with so many ingredients, allowing me to use what I have on hand. I’ve often added some grilled chicken or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra kick!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy sauce that envelops every bite
Fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and nutritional boost
Quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh spinach in this Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta not only enhances the flavor but also contributes valuable nutrients, such as vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium. Opt for vibrant, dark green leaves, as they are more flavorful and nutritious. If fresh spinach is unavailable, consider using frozen spinach; just remember to thaw and thoroughly drain it to avoid excess moisture that can dilute the sauce.

The garlic is another key player in this dish. Freshly minced garlic adds a robust aroma and deep flavor compared to pre-minced or powdered varieties. Sauté your garlic just until fragrant, as overcooking can lead to a bitter taste. If you love garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two—you might just discover a new favorite flavor!

Tips for the Creamy Sauce

When making the creamy sauce, the choice of heavy cream is crucial for achieving the desired richness. Whipping cream or half-and-half can be used as alternatives, but they will result in a lighter consistency. If you're looking to cut calories, substituting a portion of the heavy cream with low-fat milk can work, but be mindful that it may alter the sauce’s creaminess and require a bit longer to thicken. Adding a splash of pasta water helps balance out the texture if you find it too thick.

Nutmeg is a wonderful addition, providing warmth and depth to the overall flavor profile. Just a sprinkle can elevate the dish by adding an aromatic hint that melds beautifully with the cream and cheese. If you're uncertain about the taste, add a pinch, stir, and taste before adding more—it's easy to overdo, and a little goes a long way.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta

12 oz pasta of your choice
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
5 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Red pepper flakes for garnish (optional)

Combine all these ingredients for a delicious pasta experience!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

Sauté Garlic

In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Add Spinach

Add fresh spinach to the pot and cook until wilted, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce heat to low, pour in the heavy cream, and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. If too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the pot, season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg, and toss to combine everything well.

Serve

Serve the pasta warm, garnished with red pepper flakes if desired. Enjoy your creamy spinach garlic pasta!

Enjoy your delicious pasta dish!

Pro Tips

For a healthier version, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a plant-based cream alternative. You can also add grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins. Grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp can easily be added to the mix for a heartier meal. If you're seeking vegetarian options, consider incorporating chickpeas or white beans for added protein without compromising flavor. A sprinkling of lemon zest on top can brighten the dish's richness, too.

For a complete meal, serve the pasta with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad to balance the creaminess. A simple vinaigrette with a touch of acidity can provide a refreshing contrast, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be sure to allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. When reheating, it’s best to do so on low heat in a skillet with a splash of water or milk to rejuvenate the sauce, preventing it from becoming overly thick or clumpy. Stir occasionally until heated through.

If you plan to freeze the pasta, consider undercooking the pasta slightly, as it will continue to cook when reheated. Freeze in individual portions to make reheating easier. Though it may lose some of its creamy texture, a quick addition of extra cream or cheese upon reheating will help revive its delightful consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water in the dish.

→ What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Pasta shapes like fettuccine, penne, or farfalle work well, but feel free to use your favorite!

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

You can replace heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a vegan option.

→ Can I store leftovers, and how would I reheat them?

Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce and warm it on the stove over low heat.