This Spinach Spaghetti is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines buttery sautéed spinach with garlic, shallots, and parmesan cheese. The creamy spinach mixture coats the spaghetti noodles, creating a vibrant and satisfying pasta dish. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that is easy to make, healthy, and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re a spinach lover or just looking for a new twist on classic pasta, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Spinach Spaghetti

Ingredients

For the Spaghetti:
10 ounces spaghetti noodles (283g)
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon minced garlic
½ cup minced shallots (about 1 large or 2 medium shallots)
10 ounces raw spinach leaves
½ teaspoon garlic salt
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese

Optional Garnish:
Red pepper flakes
Shredded parmesan cheese

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook Spaghetti:

Cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water and drain the rest. Optionally, toss the noodles with a teaspoon of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Prepare Spinach Mixture:

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
Add the minced garlic and shallots, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until softened.
Add the spinach a handful at a time, stirring until it begins to wilt.
Sprinkle in garlic salt, onion powder, and black pepper, stirring until the spinach is fully wilted.

Puree the Spinach Mixture:

Remove the spinach mixture from the skillet and place it in a mini food chopper or blender.
Add the grated parmesan cheese and blend until smooth, scraping down the sides halfway through.

Combine and Heat:

Return the pureed spinach mixture to the skillet over low heat.
Add the cooked spaghetti noodles and toss until everything is evenly combined.
If needed, add a small amount of reserved pasta water to loosen the mixture.

Serve:

Garnish with optional red pepper flakes and extra shredded parmesan cheese.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 5 people.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Basil Twist: For an added flavor boost, toss in a handful of fresh basil leaves with the spinach for a fresh, aromatic note.
Cheese Variation: Swap out the parmesan for pecorino Romano or another hard cheese to give the sauce a slightly different flavor.
Add Protein: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for an extra protein-packed meal.
Spicy Spinach Spaghetti: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to spice things up for a little heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave, adding a splash of water if necessary to moisten the dish. You can also reheat on the stovetop, adding a bit of olive oil or water to keep it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before using it in the recipe.

How do I know when the pasta is al dente?

Check the pasta a minute or two before the recommended cooking time on the package. It should be tender but still firm to the bite.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can make this dish vegan by omitting the butter and parmesan, and using olive oil instead. For the cheese, you can substitute a plant-based alternative.

What other pasta shapes work with this recipe?

While spaghetti works perfectly, you can also use other pasta shapes such as fettuccine, penne, or linguine for variety.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes to make the dish even more colorful and nutritious.

How can I make this dish creamier?

For a creamier sauce, add a little bit of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese when you combine the spinach mixture with the pasta.

Can I use garlic powder instead of minced garlic?

Yes, you can use garlic powder if needed. Use about ½ teaspoon of garlic powder as a substitute for the minced garlic.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the spinach mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook the pasta.

Can I freeze leftovers?

While the texture of the spinach may change after freezing, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to a month. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to increase the heat in the dish.

Conclusion

Spinach Spaghetti is a vibrant and delicious dish that’s full of flavor and easy to prepare. With buttery sautéed spinach, garlic, shallots, and parmesan cheese, it’s a comforting pasta dish that can be enjoyed any night of the week. It’s a perfect way to sneak in some greens while satisfying your pasta cravings. Enjoy this flavorful dish on its own or with your favorite protein for a complete meal!

Emma

Spinach Spaghetti

Ingredients