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When it comes to quick and satisfying meals, few dishes can rival the allure of Creamy Garlic Spinach Penne. This delightful pasta recipe seamlessly intertwines the rich, aromatic essence of garlic with the creamy goodness of cheese and the vibrant freshness of spinach. It stands out not only for its taste but also for its versatility; whether you're whipping it up for a casual weeknight dinner, serving it at a family gathering, or impressing guests at a dinner party, this dish has you covered.

Creamy Garlic Spinach Penne

Discover the simplicity and deliciousness of Creamy Garlic Spinach Penne, a perfect dish for any occasion. This recipe combines rich garlic flavors, creamy cheese, and vibrant spinach, creating a satisfying meal with minimal prep time. Cook penne pasta to al dente perfection, sauté fresh garlic and spinach, and create a velvety cream sauce to tie it all together. Ideal for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, this pasta dish brings comfort and flavor to your table.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz penne pasta

3 tablespoons olive oil

6 cloves garlic, minced

5 cups fresh baby spinach

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Zest of 1 lemon, for added brightness

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until just al dente. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside, ensuring it doesn't clump together.

    Sauté the Garlic: In the same pot or a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Take care not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can become bitter.

      Add the Spinach: Gradually add the fresh baby spinach to the skillet, tossing continuously to ensure even wilting. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until all spinach is wilted and bright green.

        Create the Cream Sauce: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and pour in the heavy cream. Stir the mixture well and allow it to simmer softly for 2 to 3 minutes to thicken slightly.

          Incorporate Cheese: Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until it melts completely into the sauce, resulting in a smooth consistency. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired creaminess.

            Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the creamy spinach sauce, carefully tossing to coat all the pasta evenly. If desired, sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of spice, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

              Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the lemon zest, which adds a refreshing brightness to the dish. Serve the pasta warm in bowls, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra grated Parmesan if desired.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                  15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings