Introduction
If you love creamy pasta and cheesy dips, this Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Bake is your dream come true. Inspired by the classic spinach artichoke dip, this pasta dish is indulgent, comforting, and full of rich flavors. Al dente pasta is tossed in a velvety sauce made with spinach, artichokes, garlic, cream, and plenty of cheese, then baked until bubbly and golden.
It’s the perfect family-style dish — hearty enough for a main course, yet elegant enough to serve at gatherings. The combination of creamy, cheesy, garlicky sauce with the slightly tangy flavor of artichokes makes it irresistibly good.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it combines two of my favorites — comfort pasta and spinach artichoke dip. Every forkful is creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, but at the same time, it feels wholesome because of the spinach and artichokes.
It’s also a dish that you can prepare ahead of time, bake just before serving, and wow your family or guests with a golden, cheesy pasta casserole straight out of the oven. To me, it’s the perfect comfort food-meets-dinner party dish.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
- Rich and Comforting: Creamy, cheesy, and filling.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepped in advance.
- Balanced: A great way to sneak in veggies like spinach and artichokes.
- Versatile: Works for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holiday meals.
Recipe Information
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories (approx.): 420 kcal per serving
- Cuisine: American / Italian-inspired
- Course: Main Course / Dinner
Ingredients
For the Pasta Bake:
- 12 oz (350 g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 5 oz (150 g) fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry)
- 2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for crunch)
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese
Simple Cooking Directions
- Cook pasta until al dente.
- Prepare creamy spinach-artichoke sauce.
- Toss pasta with sauce and transfer to baking dish.
- Sprinkle cheese (and breadcrumbs if using).
- Bake until golden and bubbly.
Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation
Step 1: Cook Pasta
- Bring a pot of salted water to boil.
- Cook pasta until just al dente (slightly firm), since it will cook further in the oven.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil/butter.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in artichokes and spinach, cooking for 3–4 minutes.
- Add cream, cream cheese, Italian seasoning, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Mix in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted.
Step 3: Combine with Pasta
- Add drained pasta into the sauce. Toss well until coated evenly.
Step 4: Assemble the Bake
- Transfer pasta mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Top with breadcrumbs (if using), mozzarella, and Parmesan.
Step 5: Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
How to Serve
- Serve hot as a main course with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
- Pair with a glass of white wine for a dinner-party feel.
- Works great as a potluck dish since it can be baked and transported easily.
Additional Recipe Tips
- Use al dente pasta — it won’t get mushy after baking.
- If sauce feels too thick, add a splash of milk or pasta water.
- Fresh spinach wilts quickly; add it last before mixing pasta.
- Add extra cheese on top for a gooey, indulgent bake.
- For added crunch, mix breadcrumbs with a little olive oil before topping.
Variations
- Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based cream, cheese, and nutritional yeast.
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the sauce.
- Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, broccoli, or zucchini for more flavor.
Freezing and Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing (unbaked): Assemble pasta bake, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes extra cooking time.
- Freezing (baked): Freeze cooled portions for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F).
Special Equipment Needed
- Large pot (for pasta)
- Skillet (for sauce)
- Baking dish (9x13 inch works well)
- Oven
Conclusion
Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort dish — creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. It’s hearty enough for a family dinner, elegant enough for guests, and easy enough for weeknight cooking.
With its luscious sauce, golden baked top, and wholesome vegetables, it’s a recipe that delivers both indulgence and nourishment. Once you try it, this dish will become a staple in your comfort food rotation — perfect for cozy nights, potlucks, or festive gatherings
