Pin It A comforting and flavorful one-pot casserole featuring tender pasta, fresh spinach, and a creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights and sure to please the whole family.
I’ve made this magic casserole many times when I’m short on time but want a warm satisfying meal that my whole family enjoys.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) penne or fusilli pasta (uncooked)
- Vegetables: 200 g (7 oz) fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped, 1 medium onion, finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Dairy & Liquids: 700 ml (3 cups) vegetable broth, 200 ml (3/4 cup + 2 tbsp) heavy cream, 120 g (1 cup) grated mozzarella cheese, 50 g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tbsp cream cheese
- Seasonings: 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp dried basil, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, Salt and black pepper to taste, Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
- Garnish: Fresh parsley chopped (optional), Extra Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat Add the chopped onion and cook for 2&3 minutes until softened
- Step 2:
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant
- Step 3:
- Stir in the uncooked pasta vegetable broth and heavy cream Bring to a gentle boil then reduce the heat to a simmer
- Step 4:
- Add the dried oregano basil nutmeg salt pepper and chili flakes if using Stir well
- Step 5:
- Cover and simmer for 10 minutes stirring occasionally to prevent sticking
- Step 6:
- Add the chopped spinach and cream cheese Continue to cook stirring occasionally until the pasta is al dente and the spinach is wilted (about 5&7 minutes)
- Step 7:
- Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy
- Step 8:
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed
- Step 9:
- Serve hot garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired
Pin It My family loves gathering around the table to share this delicious casserole especially on chilly evenings.
Required Tools
Large deep skillet or Dutch oven Cutting board and knife Wooden spoon or spatula Measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains milk (cream cheese) and wheat (pasta) May contain gluten use gluten free pasta if needed Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 570 Total Fat 27 g Carbohydrates 60 g Protein 20 g per serving
Pin It This casserole is a simple yet flavorful dish that can become a family favorite in no time.
Your Questions Answered
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Short pasta like penne or fusilli hold the creamy sauce well and cook evenly in one pot.
- → Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, but thaw and drain frozen spinach thoroughly to prevent excess water from thinning the sauce.
- → How do I ensure the pasta cooks evenly in one pot?
Simmer with enough liquid and stir occasionally to prevent sticking, allowing pasta to absorb flavors fully.
- → What can I add for extra flavor?
Sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes add depth and complement the creamy, herb-spiced base.
- → Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cheese sauce?
Use plant-based cream and cheese substitutes to keep the creamy texture while maintaining flavor.