Penne with Spinach and Two Cheeses
Indulge in the creamy decadence of Penne with Spinach and Two Cheeses, a comforting pasta dish that combines the richness of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses with tender wilted spinach in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce. Perfectly cooked penne provides the ideal canvas for the velvety sauce, which is enhanced by a touch of red pepper flakes for optional heat and fresh parsley for a bright, herbaceous finish. This quick and easy recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an irresistible choice for busy weeknights or an elegant dinner party centerpiece. Packed with flavor and featuring wholesome ingredients, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 ounces fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoons red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the fresh baby spinach to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until wilted and tender.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Gradually stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses, letting them melt and create a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the spinach-cheese sauce.
Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through, stirring occasionally.
Transfer the penne with spinach and two cheeses to serving plates or a large serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2998 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 162.9 g | 209% | |
| Saturated Fat | 82.4 g | 412% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 408 mg | 136% | |
| Sodium | 3511 mg | 153% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 265.4 g | 97% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 18.3 g | 65% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.9 g | ||
| Protein | 106.3 g | 213% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1942 mg | 149% | |
| Iron | 20.3 mg | 113% | |
| Potassium | 2138 mg | 45% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
