Save to Pinterest This creamy spinach artichoke spaghetti is my go-to when I need a quick comfort meal that tastes restaurant-worthy. Tender pasta soaks up a velvety sauce packed with fresh greens, flavorful artichokes, and just the right amount of cheese. It is a luxuriously simple way to make any dinner feel a little more special, whether it is just you and your family or a table full of friends.
My family requests this dish whenever they want comfort food with a twist. The creamy sauce reminds me of cozy dinners growing up but is much easier and faster to make than you would think.
Ingredients
- Spaghetti Pasta: This is the backbone of the dish Choose good quality dry spaghetti for a satisfying bite
- Fresh Spinach: Packed with nutrients and brings a fresh pop of green Choose crisp leaves without yellowing
- Artichoke Hearts: Briny and tender Marinated artichokes add even more depth if you have them
- Garlic: Adds bold aroma and flavor Use fresh cloves for the best kick
- Yellow Onion: Sweeter and mellower than white onions which gives balance to the sauce
- Heavy Cream: The secret to a velvety smooth sauce Look for cream with no additives
- Cream Cheese: Makes the sauce ultra creamy without being heavy Soften for easier melting
- Parmesan Cheese: Savory and salty It brings a subtle nuttiness Grate fresh from a block if you can
- Mozzarella Cheese: Melts perfectly making the sauce stretchy Shred it yourself for the creamiest results
- Unsalted Butter: Gives a rich base Without the salt you control the seasoning
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of each ingredient Freshly ground black pepper tastes best
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Optional for a touch of warmth Use sparingly or omit for a mild dish
- Fresh Parsley: For a final burst of color and herby brightness Chop just before serving for peak flavor
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta:
- Fill a large pot with water Add a generous handful of salt and bring to a rolling boil Drop in the spaghetti and cook until just tender but still with a bite about two minutes less than the package suggests Reserve a full cup of pasta water before draining so you can adjust the sauce later
- Prepare the Vegetable Base:
- While the pasta cooks melt butter in a wide skillet over medium heat Add chopped onion and stir frequently letting it sweat without browning for about three minutes This releases sweetness and forms the flavor foundation Next add minced garlic and gently cook for one minute stirring constantly until the aroma becomes irresistible
- Build the Veggie Layer:
- Scatter in the quartered artichoke hearts stir gently and let them warm through for two minutes Add the roughly chopped spinach in batches stirring as it wilts This only takes a minute or two The spinach should reduce in volume but stay bright green
- Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Lower the heat to its lowest setting Dot in the softened cream cheese and pour over the heavy cream Stir slowly as the cream cheese melts and blends into a smooth unified sauce Make sure no lumps remain at this stage for a silky texture
- Add the Cheeses and Seasonings:
- Sprinkle over the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella stirring until both melt into the sauce Taste at this point and season with salt pepper and a pinch of red pepper flakes Adjust slowly to dial in your perfect balance of flavors
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the just-drained spaghetti directly to the skillet Use tongs or a large spoon to gently toss the pasta so every strand is coated in the creamy cheesy sauce If it feels thick trickle in a splash of reserved pasta water at a time tossing after each addition until the sauce clings perfectly without being gluey
- Garnish and Serve:
- Pile the pasta onto plates while it is piping hot and creamy Shower with chopped fresh parsley and a final touch of Parmesan for extra flavor Serve right away for the ultimate creamy experience
Save to Pinterest Cream cheese is my secret weapon here I especially love how it melts down into a silky sauce without tasting heavy or greasy My little one once licked the sauce right out of the pan and that is now a family story my kids bring up every time we make this
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for up to three days Reheat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce If you want to freeze let the pasta cool completely and freeze in individual portions Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to use gluten free pasta just swap for your favorite brand Whole wheat spaghetti works as well For a lighter version substitute half and half for the heavy cream or use Neufchâtel instead of regular cream cheese If you need a vegan version try plant based cream and cheese shreds and use olive oil instead of butter
Serving Suggestions
This pasta stands alone as a cozy main but it is fantastic with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables Garlic bread or a warm baguette completes the meal A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc brings out all the flavors for adults
Cultural and Historical Context
This recipe draws inspiration from classic spinach artichoke dip and transforms it into a full meal It is an Italian American favorite known for its creamy sauces and bold garlic flavors making it a diner classic and a potluck hero
Seasonal Adaptations
Three helpful notes for adapting to the season Use fresh baby spinach in spring for milder flavor Try kale or chard in winter for a heartier variation If tomatoes are in season toss in a handful of cherry tomatoes during step three for pops of sweetness
Success Stories
I have made this for girls night in and heard shocked silence until the last bite disappeared One neighbor who swears she does not like spinach now makes this every few weeks This pasta never fails to win over hearts
Freezer Meal Conversion
For easy freezer meals cool the pasta completely and portion it into freezer safe containers It reheats best in the microwave with a tablespoon or two of milk or cream stirred in halfway through for silky results
Save to Pinterest This creamy spaghetti makes every night feel a bit special and comes together with minimal effort. A true comfort meal for families and friends.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I prevent the sauce from being too thick?
Gradually add reserved pasta water while tossing the spaghetti in the sauce. Stir until your desired consistency is reached.
- → Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, thaw and drain frozen spinach well to avoid excess moisture. Add it during the wilting step in the skillet.
- → What cheese alternatives work for dairy-free diets?
Choose plant-based cream and cheeses, such as dairy-free cream cheese and mozzarella alternatives, for a similar creamy texture.
- → Do marinated artichoke hearts change the flavor?
Marinated artichoke hearts add depth and tang to the pasta. Regular canned artichokes offer a subtler taste.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
Crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complement the creamy and savory flavors perfectly.
- → Can gluten-free pasta be used?
Absolutely, substitute your favorite gluten-free spaghetti to make the dish suitable for those with wheat sensitivities.