Creamy Spinach Pasta Recipe – Easy Mozzarella & Herb Bake

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Creamy Spinach Pasta Recipe – Easy Mozzarella & Herb Bake

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a comforting, flavorful meal that doesn’t take forever to make. This creamy spinach pasta is exactly that – a hug in a bowl! I first whipped this up on a chilly weeknight, and it’s been a family favorite ever since. It’s so easy, even the kids ask for seconds (which is a win in my book!). Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy spinach pasta is the perfect blend of cheesy goodness and fresh, vibrant flavors. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, but feels special enough for a cozy weekend meal. Plus, it’s super versatile – you can easily adapt it to your liking with different herbs, spices, or even add some protein. Honestly, what’s not to love?

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this deliciousness:

• 1 cup Shell pasta or any pasta (about 150g)
• 1 cup Spinach, finely chopped (about 30g)
• 1 tbsp Butter (15ml)
• 2 tbsp Garlic, minced (about 6g)
• 1 tbsp Flour (8g)
• 1 cup Milk (240ml)
• 4 tbsp Cream (60ml)
• 0.5 tsp Basil (about 1g)
• 0.5 tsp Oregano (about 1g)
• Pepper powder, as needed
• Salt, to taste
• 0.25 cup Mozzarella cheese, grated (about 30g)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference:

• Shell Pasta: I love using shell pasta for this recipe. The shape is perfect for catching all that creamy sauce! But honestly, any pasta shape will work – penne, rotini, or even spaghetti are great options.
• Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: Fresh basil and oregano really elevate the flavor, but if you only have dried, that’s totally fine! Just use about 1 teaspoon of each instead of 0.5 teaspoon.
• Full-Fat Cream: Don’t skimp on the cream! Full-fat cream creates the richest, most luxurious sauce. You can use half-and-half in a pinch, but the sauce won’t be quite as thick and creamy.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get down to business!

1. First, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until it’s al dente – that means it should be firm to the bite. Drain the pasta, but save about ½ cup of the pasta water. You might need it later!
2. Now, in a pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, until it’s fragrant. Don’t let it burn!
3. Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and butter. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which will thicken our sauce.
4. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce starts to thicken slightly.
5. Stir in the cream, chopped spinach, basil, oregano, pepper, and salt. Simmer for a few minutes, until the sauce is nice and thick.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
7. Finally, stir in the grated mozzarella cheese until it’s melted and bubbly. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips

Want to take your pasta game to the next level? Here are a few tips:

• Lump-Free Béchamel: The key to a smooth béchamel sauce (that’s the milk and flour sauce!) is to add the milk gradually and whisk constantly. Seriously, don’t stop whisking!
• Al Dente Pasta: Nobody likes mushy pasta! Check the pasta package for cooking time, and start testing for doneness a minute or two before the recommended time.
• Seasoning is Key: Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go. A little extra salt or pepper can make all the difference.

Variations

This recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Vegan Adaptation: My friend Priya is vegan, and she makes this with plant-based butter, oat milk, and vegan mozzarella. It’s just as delicious!
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free all-purpose flour.
• Spice Level: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. My husband loves this!
• Quick Weeknight Version: Save time by using pre-washed spinach. It’s a lifesaver on busy nights.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy spinach pasta is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs well with:

• A simple side salad
• Garlic bread
• Roasted vegetables

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

• Is this pasta dish suitable for meal prepping? Yes! It reheats well, but the sauce might thicken up a bit. Just add a splash of milk or pasta water when reheating.
• Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe? Absolutely! Parmesan, cheddar, or even a blend of Italian cheeses would be delicious.
• How can I make the sauce thicker/thinner? For a thicker sauce, simmer it for a longer time. For a thinner sauce, add more pasta water or milk.
• What’s the best way to reheat leftover pasta? I recommend reheating it in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or water to prevent it from drying out.
• Can I add protein like chicken or shrimp to this pasta? Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even some crispy bacon would be amazing additions.