If you’re searching for a comforting, cheesy dish that will impress your guests, look no further than this Spinach Artichoke Pasta Bake. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and vibrant greens, making it a delightful meal for any occasion.
Imagine a bubbling casserole dish filled with tender pasta, sautéed spinach, and artichokes, all enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but is also a crowd-pleaser that combines the classic flavors of spinach artichoke dip with hearty pasta.
A Comforting Casserole Dish
This baked pasta dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that evoke warmth and comfort. The vibrant green spinach shines against the creamy backdrop, drawing the eye and tantalizing the taste buds.
The tender artichoke chunks add a unique twist, providing a subtle earthiness that complements the dish beautifully. Each serving is a generous scoop of happiness, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or family dinners.
The Creamy Cheese Sauce
At the heart of this dish lies a rich and creamy cheese sauce that envelops the pasta, spinach, and artichokes. Made with a blend of sour cream, cream cheese, and parmesan, this sauce delivers a luscious mouthfeel that is simply irresistible.
As the pasta bakes, the cheese melts and bubbles, creating a golden top that beckons you to dig in. The addition of mozzarella ensures a gooey stretch, making each bite even more satisfying.
Preparation Made Simple
Preparing this cheesy pasta bake is a straightforward process that doesn’t require extensive culinary skills. Starting with cooking the pasta until it’s perfectly al dente is key, ensuring that it holds up during baking.
Next, sautéing garlic and spinach in olive oil infuses the dish with aromatic flavors. The mixing of the cheese sauce and the pasta is an enjoyable step, as you watch everything transform into a creamy masterpiece ready for the oven.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This dish is versatile enough to be served at casual family meals or festive gatherings. Its hearty nature satisfies hunger, while its comforting flavors please even the pickiest of eaters.
Whether paired with a fresh salad or enjoyed on its own, this baked pasta stands out as a centerpiece. The rustic casserole dish adds charm, making the presentation itself a talking point at the table.
Garnishing and Serving Suggestions
A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing both the visual appeal and flavor profile of the dish. Serving it with a side of crusty bread can elevate the meal even further, allowing guests to savor every last bite.
For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, consider adding breadcrumbs on top before baking, creating a delightful contrast with the creamy pasta beneath.
Nutritional Information
This delicious pasta bake not only satisfies the palate but also provides a hearty serving that nourishes the body. Each portion delivers a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, making it a fulfilling main dish.
With approximately 450 calories per serving, it fits well into a balanced diet, especially for those looking to indulge without overdoing it.
A Deliciously Cheesy Pasta Bake
This spinach artichoke pasta bake is a creamy, savory dish that features al dente pasta mixed with a flavorful blend of spinach, artichokes, and a rich cheese sauce. It’s baked to perfection, resulting in a bubbly, golden top that invites you to dig in.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 10 ounces fresh spinach
- 1 can (14 ounces) artichoke hearts drained and chopped
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cream cheese softened
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs optional for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Spinach: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Mix the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, cream cheese, parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until smooth and well blended.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, sautéed spinach, and chopped artichokes to the cheese mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and breadcrumbs if desired.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy spinach and artichoke pasta bake!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
