One-Pan Creamy Spinach Pasta
This easy one-pan recipe delivers a delicious and creamy pasta dish packed with fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Equipment
- large, deep skillet or Dutch oven
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option
- 1 cup milk whole milk or 2% works best for creaminess
- 12 ounces dried pasta penne, rotini, or farfalle are great choices
- 5 ounces fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- red pepper flakes Optional) Pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick
Instructions
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add chopped onion and cook for 3-5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, making sure it doesn't burn.
- Pour in vegetable broth and milk, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Add dried pasta directly into the pan, ensuring it is mostly submerged in the liquid.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is al dente and liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat, add fresh spinach a handful at a time until wilted, then stir in grated Parmesan cheese.
- Season generously with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes, then serve immediately with extra Parmesan.
Notes
Stirring the pasta occasionally during cooking is crucial to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. For an extra rich flavor, you can use a high-quality Parmesan cheese and a good vegetable or chicken broth. Adjust the seasoning at the end to your preference, adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as needed.