Spicy Spinach Spaghetti Recipe – Quick Italian Pasta Dish

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Spicy Spinach Spaghetti Recipe – Quick Italian Pasta Dish

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a delicious, comforting meal that doesn’t take forever to make. This Spicy Spinach Spaghetti is exactly that – a quick Italian pasta dish bursting with flavor, and it’s become a weeknight staple in my kitchen. I first made this when I was craving something simple but satisfying, and it’s been a hit ever since! Let’s get cooking, shall we?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a winner for so many reasons. It’s ready in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings. The combination of spicy red pepper flakes, fresh spinach, and a flavorful marinara sauce is just chef’s kiss. Plus, it’s easily customizable to your spice preference and dietary needs. Honestly, who doesn’t love a good pasta night?

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this deliciousness:

• 16 oz (450g) spaghetti
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 5-6 garlic cloves, minced
• 0.25-0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice level!)
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 16 oz (450g) baby spinach
• 0.25 cup (30g) grated parmesan cheese
• 32 oz (900g) marinara sauce
• Salt and water (for pasta)

Ingredient Notes

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

• Marinara Sauce: You can absolutely use your favorite store-bought marinara sauce – there are some fantastic options out there. Or, if you’re feeling ambitious, homemade is always incredible! I love a good, rustic marinara with a touch of sweetness. Regional Italian styles vary too – some are chunkier, others smoother. Experiment and find what you love!
• Spaghetti: I usually go for traditional durum wheat spaghetti, but feel free to use whole wheat for extra fiber, or even gluten-free spaghetti if needed. The texture will vary slightly, but the flavor will still be amazing.
• Spinach: Baby spinach wilts down beautifully and has a milder flavor. If you only have regular spinach, just remove the tough stems.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is always best. Don’t skimp!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get down to business!

1. First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook for 7-8 minutes, or according to package directions, until al dente. Remember to reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining – it’s liquid gold!
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for about a minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Add the baby spinach to the pan and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with black pepper.
4. Pour in the marinara sauce, mix well, and let it warm through for a few minutes.
5. Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain it (reserving that pasta water!) and add it directly to the pan with the sauce. Toss everything together until the spaghetti is evenly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
6. Serve immediately, topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Enjoy!

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

• Don’t overcook the spaghetti! Al dente is key for the best texture.
• Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. A little extra salt or pepper can make all the difference.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese. Pecorino Romano is also delicious!

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan Variation: Simply swap the parmesan cheese for a vegan parmesan alternative. There are some really good ones available now! My friend Sarah swears by the Violife brand.
• Gluten-Free Variation: Use your favorite gluten-free spaghetti. I’ve had good luck with brown rice pasta.
• Spice Level Adjustment: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with just 0.25 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. You can always add more! My husband loves it extra spicy, so I usually make a little extra red pepper flake oil on the side for him.

Quick Weeknight Meal Adaptation

To make this even faster, you can use pre-chopped garlic and pre-washed spinach. It’s a lifesaver on busy nights!

Serving Suggestions

This Spicy Spinach Spaghetti is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with:

• A simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing
• Garlic bread (of course!)
• Roasted vegetables

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. You might need to add a splash of water to loosen it up.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

How can I make this spaghetti less spicy?

Start with a smaller amount of red pepper flakes, or omit them altogether. You can also add a pinch of sugar to the sauce to balance the heat.

What type of marinara sauce works best in this recipe?

Any marinara sauce you enjoy! I recommend one with a good balance of sweetness and acidity.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the pan.

How do I prevent the spaghetti from sticking together?

Make sure to use plenty of water when cooking the spaghetti, and stir it frequently. Adding a tablespoon of olive oil to the cooking water can also help.

Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?

Yes, it is! Just store the spaghetti and sauce separately and combine them when you’re ready to eat. This will prevent the spaghetti from becoming soggy.