Go Back
Creamy Spinach and Cheese Penne Skillet is a delightful dish that masterfully combines vibrant flavors and a luscious texture, making it a favorite among both pasta enthusiasts and health-conscious eaters. This one-pan meal is not only a visual feast, with its rich greens and creamy whites, but it also serves as a delicious way to incorporate nutrient-dense spinach into your diet. The creamy sauce envelops the penne pasta, creating a comforting dish that satisfies cheese lovers while offering a wholesome balance with fresh greens.

Creamy Spinach Pasta Skillet

Discover the delightful Creamy Spinach and Cheese Penne Skillet, a one-pan meal that combines vibrant flavors and creamy textures. In under 30 minutes, you can whip up a hearty dish that pleases both pasta lovers and health enthusiasts. This recipe features penne pasta enveloped in a rich cheese sauce, with nutrient-packed spinach for added freshness. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it's a comforting option you’ll love to share and savor.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

8 oz (about 225g) penne pasta

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

5 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust according to your spice preference)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Zest of 1 lemon

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring generously salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until it reaches al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a cup of the pasta water.

    Sauté Garlic and Spinach: For the next step, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Then, add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for approximately 3-4 minutes until the spinach has wilted down.

      Prepare the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Immediately add the grated Parmesan and ricotta cheese. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt and blend seamlessly into a rich and creamy sauce. If you find the sauce to be too thick, incorporate a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to achieve your desired sauce consistency.

        Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to ensure each piece is coated generously with the creamy sauce. Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and lemon zest. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Continue to cook, stirring, for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.

          Serve and Garnish: Remove the skillet from the heat and generously sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish for a fresh finish. Serve warm and enjoy your delightful creamy spinach and cheese pasta!

            Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

              - Presentation Tips: For an extra touch, serve in individual bowls and top each portion with an additional sprinkle of Parmesan and a twist of lemon for freshness. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also enhance the dish’s richness.