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Creamy Cheesy Spinach & Artichoke Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the comforting qualities of pasta with the rich flavors of spinach and artichokes. This recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience, combining creamy textures with a cheesy finish that tantalizes the taste buds. The hint of spice adds an exciting twist, making each bite a flavorful adventure.

Cheesy Spinach & Artichoke Pasta

Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of Creamy Cheesy Spinach & Artichoke Pasta with this easy recipe. In under 30 minutes, you can create a delicious meal that blends the creaminess of cheeses, the goodness of spinach, and the heartiness of artichokes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is loved by both kids and adults. Elevate your dining experience with this nutritious and delightful pasta that everyone will enjoy.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (226g) pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and coarsely chopped

1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup milk (whole or 2% for creaminess)

2 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend

½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta carefully, reserving about 1 cup of the starchy cooking water. Set the pasta aside.

    Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté for approximately 1 minute, stirring continuously until the garlic is fragrant but has not started to brown.

      Add Spinach and Artichokes: To the skillet, add the chopped spinach and artichoke hearts. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until the spinach is wilted and the artichokes are warmed through.

        Create the Cheese Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and introduce the softened cream cheese into the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese has melted and blended smoothly. Gradually pour in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture is creamy and well combined. Next, add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses, mixing until all cheeses are melted and the sauce is luscious.

          Season the Sauce: Stir in the Italian seasoning and, if desired, the crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of spice. Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, gradually incorporate some of the reserved pasta water until achieving your desired creamy consistency.

            Combine Pasta and Sauce: Gently fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. If necessary, taste and adjust the seasoning before keeping the skillet on low heat for an additional 2-3 minutes. This step allows the pasta to absorb some of the rich sauce.

              Serve: Using tongs or a large spoon, transfer the creamy pasta to serving bowls. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley for an added pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your wonderful creamy cheesy spinach and artichoke pasta!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 generous servings