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This Spinach Artichoke Pasta Skillet takes the flavors of a classic creamy dip and transforms them into a wholesome, comforting pasta dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Bursting with tender spinach and nutrient-rich artichokes, it’s naturally high in fiber and packed with plant-based vitamins and minerals.
The creamy combination of cream cheese, mozzarella, and parmesan provides indulgent flavor while still allowing a balance of good fats.
By using pasta water to create a silky sauce, this recipe achieves restaurant-quality creaminess without excess cream.
It’s quick to make, satisfying, and versatile—perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or even reheating for lunch the next day.
Every bite delivers a delightful mix of textures: gooey cheese, tender vegetables, and al dente pasta.
A smart, flavorful choice for anyone looking to combine ease, nutrition, and comfort in one dish.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Large Oven-Safe Skillet
Ideal for sautéing vegetables and melting cheese directly in the pan, this versatile tool eliminates extra cleanup and doubles as a broiler-safe dish for finishing with a golden crust.
Pasta Pot with Strainer
Perfect for boiling pasta evenly and conveniently draining it without losing any of the starchy water, which is essential for creating a luscious, creamy sauce.
Silicone Spatula
Gentle on cookware yet sturdy enough to stir thick cheese sauces, this tool ensures every ingredient is combined smoothly without scratching your pan.
Cheese Grater
Freshly grated parmesan and mozzarella melt more evenly than pre-shredded alternatives, boosting both flavor and texture for a perfectly gooey finish.
Broiler Oven Rack or Pan
Essential for finishing the pasta with a golden, bubbly cheese topping; it allows for quick broiling while keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Creamy Spinach Artichoke Pasta Skillet
Equipment
- 1 large oven-safe skillet
- 1 pot for pasta
- 1 silicone spatula
- 1 Cheese grater
- 1 broiler-safe rack or pan
Ingredients
- 1 pound penne pasta uncooked
- 1 cup reserved starchy pasta water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 shallots diced
- Kosher salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces fresh baby spinach
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 2 12-ounce jars artichoke hearts, drained and coarsely chopped
- 8 ounces cream cheese room temperature
- 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese plus extra for topping
Instructions
- Prepare Pasta Perfectly: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Generously season the water with kosher salt—it should taste like the sea, which helps flavor the pasta from the inside. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until it is al dente, tender but still firm to the bite.Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water; this liquid is packed with flavor and helps create a smooth, creamy sauce later. Drain the pasta carefully and set it aside.
- Sauté Shallots for Aroma: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat.Add the diced shallots along with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 3 minutes until the shallots become soft, translucent, and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for the sauce.
- Wilt Spinach to Perfection: Gradually add the baby spinach to the skillet, in batches if necessary, to avoid overcrowding.Stir constantly as each batch wilts down, which should take about 5–6 minutes. The spinach should become tender, deep green, and slightly glossy.Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to let it brown.
- Melt Cream Cheese Smoothly: Reduce the heat slightly and add the cream cheese to the skillet.Use a silicone spatula to stir continuously, allowing the cheese to soften and melt evenly into the spinach mixture. This creates a rich, creamy base that will coat the pasta beautifully.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Slowly pour in ¾ of the reserved pasta water, stirring to combine with the creamy spinach mixture. Add the cooked penne pasta, chopped artichoke hearts, and most of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese (reserve about ⅓ cup for topping). Mix thoroughly until every piece of pasta is coated in the luscious, cheesy sauce. Adjust the consistency by adding a little more pasta water if needed—the sauce should be smooth and cling to the noodles.
- Preheat Broiler for Golden Finish: While stirring the pasta, preheat your oven broiler on high. This ensures the dish will finish with a beautifully bubbly and lightly browned cheese topping.
- Top with Cheese and Broil: Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top of the skillet. Carefully place the skillet under the preheated broiler. Watch it closely for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling.Depending on your broiler, it may need an extra minute or two, so keep a vigilant eye to avoid burning.
- Rest and Serve Delightfully: Remove the skillet from the oven using oven mitts and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps the sauce settle slightly, making it easier to serve. Scoop generous portions onto plates and sprinkle with extra parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while warm and gooey for maximum flavor and comfort.
- Optional Enhancements: For added texture and flavor, consider topping with a few toasted pine nuts or a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil. You can also pair it with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use fresh baby spinach for the best texture and flavor; frozen spinach can add extra moisture.
- Reserve some pasta water—it’s key for creating a silky, creamy sauce.
- Let the cream cheese come to room temperature before adding; it melts more smoothly.
- Stir continuously when melting cheeses to avoid clumping or scorching.
- Keep a close eye under the broiler; cheese can go from golden to burnt in seconds.
- Add garlic toward the end of the spinach sauté to preserve its bright flavor.
- For extra flavor, season with a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika.
- This dish reheats well, but avoid overcooking to maintain the pasta’s texture.
Chef’s Secrets for Perfect Creaminess
Achieving the perfect creamy texture is all about technique.
Start by slowly melting cream cheese into the wilted spinach, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
The reserved starchy pasta water is a game-changer—it not only thins the sauce slightly but also helps it cling to every penne tube.
For a rich, well-balanced flavor, use a combination of mozzarella for gooey meltiness and freshly grated parmesan for sharpness and depth.
When broiling, positioning your oven rack about 6 inches from the heat ensures a golden, bubbly top without burning.
Small touches, like adding garlic last or seasoning with freshly cracked pepper, elevate the dish from good to exceptional.
Serving Suggestions That Impress Guests
Serve this skillet pasta straight from the oven for a cozy, family-style presentation.
Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the cheese.
Crusty garlic bread or a simple baguette makes for perfect dipping into the creamy sauce.
For a lighter twist, a squeeze of fresh lemon over the finished dish brightens the flavors and adds a subtle tang.
This recipe also works beautifully as a meal prep option; portion into airtight containers and reheat gently for an indulgent lunch or dinner.
Storage Tips for Freshness and Flavor
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of reserved pasta water or milk to restore creaminess.
This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and top with extra cheese.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipe
1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, but be sure to thaw and thoroughly drain excess water. Fresh spinach will give a better texture and flavor, while frozen spinach may make the sauce slightly thinner.
2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute cream cheese, mozzarella, and parmesan with plant-based alternatives. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor while keeping the dish creamy and satisfying.
3. What pasta works best for this dish?
Penne is ideal because its tubular shape traps sauce and cheese. Rigatoni, rotini, or fusilli also work well. Avoid delicate noodles that may get lost in the creamy sauce.
4. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes. Cook the pasta and vegetables separately, then combine with cheese sauce when ready to serve. This makes it perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep.
5. How can I make the topping extra crispy?
For an even crispier top, sprinkle additional parmesan or panko breadcrumbs before broiling. Keep a close eye on it, as it can brown very quickly under high heat.
This recipe is inspired by howsweeteats and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.
