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Quick Creamy Spinach Pasta Ready in 15 Minutes

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A quick and easy creamy spinach pasta that comes together in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights. This comforting dish uses simple pantry staples and delivers a velvety, restaurant-quality sauce without the stress.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) pasta (fettuccine or linguine recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • 3 cups (90 g) fresh spinach
  • ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) reserved pasta water

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt per 4 cups of water. Cook 8 oz (225 g) pasta according to package directions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Set a timer for 1 minute less than package says for firm pasta.
  2. While pasta cooks, start the sauce. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter until foaming but not browning. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  3. Pour in 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream. Stir into garlic butter and let come to a gentle simmer (small bubbles around edges, not boiling). Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened (coats back of a spoon).
  4. Add 3 cups (90 g) fresh spinach. Stir gently; it will wilt in 60-90 seconds into a dark green bed. If pan is too full, add spinach in batches.
  5. Just before draining pasta, reserve ½ cup (120 ml) starchy pasta water. Drain pasta well.
  6. Add drained pasta directly into skillet with cream and spinach. Toss together using tongs or a wooden spoon.
  7. Sprinkle in ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese and toss again. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency.
  8. Season with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper, adjusting to taste. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Notes

Reserve pasta water! The starch helps emulsify the sauce. Don’t rush the garlic – medium heat prevents burning. Watch the cream – medium-low heat prevents curdling. Season in layers for depth of flavor. For dairy-free, use full-fat coconut cream and dairy-free butter. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. Leftovers keep in fridge for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of milk or cream. Freezing not recommended for cream-based sauces.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy spinach pasta, quick pasta recipe, 15 minute dinner, weeknight pasta, easy pasta, spinach cream sauce, vegetarian pasta

Find it online: https://bouncybowl.com/quick-creamy-spinach-pasta-ready-in-15-minutes/