Creamy Spinach Alfredo Penne

If you’re craving a luscious, comforting pasta dish that brings together the richness of Alfredo sauce and the fresh vibrancy of spinach, look no further than this Creamy Spinach Alfredo Penne. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that feels indulgent but comes together in a flash. With tender penne pasta swimming in a velvety sauce made from cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, complemented by sautéed spinach and tender pieces of chicken, this dish hits all the right notes for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe is sure to become a beloved classic in your kitchen repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Spinach Alfredo Penne recipe is a dream come true for pasta lovers who want a quick yet impressive dish. The sauce is rich without being overwhelming, thanks to the fresh spinach adding a subtle earthiness and a burst of color. It’s a balanced dish that combines protein, greens, and carbs effortlessly. The use of simple ingredients and straightforward steps means you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal. Plus, it’s versatile—you can easily swap in different veggies or proteins to suit what you have on hand.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 8 ounces penne pasta – the perfect shape to hold onto the creamy sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing and adding a fruity depth
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth
• 4 cups fresh spinach – adds freshness and vibrant color
• 1 cup heavy cream – creates the silky, luscious Alfredo base
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – sharp, nutty flavor that melts perfectly
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – balances the flavors
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – for a gentle kick
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg – adds warmth and depth to the sauce
• 1/2 cup cooked chicken, diced – tender protein to make the meal complete
• Optional: additional Parmesan for serving – because you can never have too much cheese!

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large pot – to boil the penne pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking the garlic, spinach, and sauce
• Colander – to drain the pasta
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons – to keep portions accurate
• Grater – if you’re grating fresh Parmesan

Stepwise Method: Creamy Spinach Alfredo Penne

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 10-12 minutes). Drain the pasta in a colander, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Spinach

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Add the fresh spinach in batches, stirring until it wilts down completely. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine it with the garlic and spinach. Allow the cream to warm up but not boil. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Chicken

Add the cooked, diced chicken to the sauce, followed by the drained penne pasta. Toss everything gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy spinach Alfredo sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Spoon the creamy spinach Alfredo penne onto plates or into bowls. Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top if desired. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps

• Replace fresh spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a heartier green.
• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• Swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or grilled shrimp for a different protein twist.
• Add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy burst of flavor.

Troubles You Can Avoid

• Sauce too thin: Don’t rush the cheese melting process. Also, allow the sauce to simmer gently to thicken before adding pasta.
• Overcooked pasta: Stick to the al dente time on the package, as the pasta will continue to soften slightly when mixed with the sauce.
• Bitter spinach: Make sure to sauté spinach just until wilted—overcooking can lead to bitterness.
• Grainy sauce: Use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-grated, which often contains fillers that don’t melt well.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. Avoid overheating as it can cause the sauce to separate. For best results, consume within a couple of days to enjoy the creamy texture and fresh flavors at their peak.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding onto the sauce, you can swap it with other pasta shapes like fettuccine, rigatoni, or even farfalle, depending on your preference or pantry stock.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the chicken or replace it with your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, roasted bell peppers, or even crispy tofu for added protein.

How can I make this recipe lighter?

Use half-and-half or whole milk in place of heavy cream, and reduce the amount of cheese slightly. You can also increase the amount of spinach and add other vegetables to bulk up the dish without adding extra calories.

Can I prepare this sauce ahead of time?

You can make the Alfredo sauce a few hours ahead and keep it warm on low heat. Just give it a good stir before combining with pasta. Avoid making it too far in advance as the sauce is best served fresh for the creamiest texture.

Quick Weeknight Wins

• Try the Chicken Alfredo Bread Bowl for a fun twist on creamy chicken pasta.
• For a hearty baked dish, the Baked Chicken Ziti Alfredo is an excellent choice.
• If you love ricotta, don’t miss the creamy Baked Ziti With Ricotta recipe that’s perfect for family dinners.

Final Bite

This Creamy Spinach Alfredo Penne is a harmonious blend of rich, cheesy sauce, fresh greens, and tender chicken, all coming together in a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. It’s a go-to recipe when you want something quick but special, and its simple ingredient list means you can whip it up on a whim with pantry staples. The balance of flavors and textures makes every bite a delight, and the versatility allows you to customize it to your liking or what’s in season. Whip up this creamy pasta tonight and enjoy a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

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