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- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 4 cups fresh spinach - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Salt, to taste - Black pepper, to taste - Optional: red pepper flakes for heat - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Spinach

Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of Garlic Parmesan Fettuccine with Spinach, a delightful dish that combines comfort and nutrition. This easy recipe showcases perfectly cooked fettuccine tossed in a luscious heavy cream sauce, enhanced by the freshness of spinach and aromatic garlic. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels gourmet. Elevate your pasta nights with this satisfying, flavorful meal the whole family will love.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz fettuccine pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups fresh spinach, tightly packed

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Additional Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions
 

Cook the Fettuccine: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water for later use. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

    Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Take care not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor.

      Incorporate the Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring constantly. Cook the spinach until it has wilted and reduced significantly in volume, roughly 2-3 minutes.

        Make the Cream Sauce: Lower the heat to a simmer and slowly pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently to combine, allowing the cream to warm up without boiling. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is melted and silky smooth. If the sauce is too thick for your liking, stir in a small amount of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

          Season the Sauce: Enhance the flavor of the sauce by adding the salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.

            Combine and Coat: Gently add the drained fettuccine to the skillet with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce, ensuring each strand is evenly coated. Should the mixture appear too dry, incorporate additional reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a luscious consistency.

              Plate and Garnish: Divide the creamy fettuccine among plates, garnishing each portion with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and an extra dusting of Parmesan cheese if desired.

                Serve and Savor: Enjoy your meal immediately while it’s hot, relishing the rich flavors and creamy texture!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 25 mins | 4 servings