Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Bake: Ultimate Comfort Food
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Bake. Tender pasta is enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce brimming with savory spinach and tangy artichoke hearts, then baked to bubbly perfection. This satisfying and surprisingly easy dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck offering, promising warm, delicious bites that everyone will love. The combination of creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, and flavorful spinach and artichoke hearts creates a truly irresistible dish that's perfect for any occasion. #SpinachArtichokePastaBake #PastaBake #ComfortFood #EasyRecipe #DinnerRecipe
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works so well because it balances simplicity with deliciousness. The ingredients are readily available, the process is straightforward, and the result is a deeply satisfying and flavorful dish. The creamy cheese sauce is rich and comforting, the spinach adds a touch of healthy green, and the artichoke hearts provide a delightful tang. It’s the kind of recipe that's both impressive and easy to make, perfect for weeknights when you want something special without a lot of fuss, or for potlucks where you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. #CrowdPleaser #EasyWeeknightMeal #PotluckDish #DeliciousPasta
Ingredients: Simple, Classic, and Delicious
The ingredients for this Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Bake are classic comfort food staples. The focus is on letting the quality of the ingredients shine through, creating a dish that’s both familiar and satisfying. #SimpleIngredients #ClassicComfortFood #DeliciousAndEasy
| Category | Ingredient | Quantity (for 6 servings) |
|---|---|---|
| Pasta | Penne Pasta | 500g (1 lb) |
| Fat | Olive Oil | 2 tbsp |
| Aromatics | Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Vegetables | Frozen Spinach, thawed and squeezed dry | 250g (9 oz) |
| Vegetables | Canned Artichoke Hearts, drained and quartered | 400g (14 oz) |
| Dairy | Heavy Cream | 500ml (2 cups) |
| Cheese | Grated Parmesan Cheese | 120g (1/2 cup) |
| Cheese | Grated Mozzarella Cheese | 120g (1/2 cup) |
| Spice | Nutmeg | 1/4 tsp |
| Seasoning | Salt and Pepper | To taste |
| Topping | Breadcrumbs | 50g (2 oz) |
Instructions: Effortless Comfort
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add spinach and artichoke hearts; cook for 3-5 minutes until heated through.
- Stir in heavy cream; bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add cooked pasta and toss to coat.
- Pour into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Expert Tips & Variations
- Add cooked chicken or sausage for a heartier meal.
- Use different cheeses, such as Gruyere or fontina.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Bake is a complete meal on its own, but a side salad or some garlic bread would make a perfect complement. #PastaNight #EasyDinner #ComfortFoodRecipe
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Approximate values (per serving): 600 calories, 25g protein, 60g carbohydrates, 30g fat. (This is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
More Delicious Recipes
Discover more comforting and satisfying recipes on our blog at FlavorTrailRecipes.blogspot.com!