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Creamy Spinach and Parmesan Pasta

Close-up of creamy spinach pasta featuring fettuccine noodles generously topped with wilted spinach and grated cheese.

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Prepare a rich and comforting pasta dish featuring spinach in a creamy Parmesan sauce. This recipe is quick enough for a weeknight meal.

Ingredients

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  • 12 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 5 oz fresh spinach
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Do not brown.
  4. Pour in heavy cream and broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  5. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth.
  6. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts completely, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Season the sauce with salt and pepper.
  8. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly.
  9. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
  10. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a slightly lighter sauce.
  • For added flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the cream sauce.
  • Use any short or long pasta shape you prefer.

Nutrition