Creamy Spinach Artichoke Macaroni

Creamy Spinach Artichoke Macaroni is the ultimate comfort food that combines the luscious creaminess of a classic dip with the satisfying heartiness of pasta. This dish is a delightful twist on traditional macaroni, enriched with fresh spinach and tender artichoke hearts, blended into a rich, cheesy sauce that clings perfectly to every bite of macaroni. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side, this recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and ease. Plus, with optional shredded chicken and crumbled turkey bacon, it’s easy to customize for added protein and a smoky touch.

Why Cooks Rave About It

The magic of this Creamy Spinach Artichoke Macaroni lies in its combination of familiar and fresh ingredients that create a dish that’s both indulgent and wholesome. The creamy blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and cheeses melts into the pasta creating an irresistible sauce, while the spinach and artichokes add freshness and a slight tang that balances the richness. It’s a flavor-packed meal that’s easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests. Home cooks love how quickly it comes together without sacrificing any of the comforting flavors associated with decadent baked pasta dishes. Plus, the flexibility to add chicken or turkey bacon makes it a versatile option for varying tastes and dietary preferences.

What You’ll Gather

• 8 ounces macaroni pasta
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 can (14 ounces) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup cooked chicken, shredded (optional)
• 1/4 cup turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)

Equipment Breakdown

• Large pot – for boiling the macaroni pasta
• Large skillet – to sauté spinach and prepare the sauce
• Mixing bowl – to combine cheeses and seasonings
• Baking dish – to assemble and bake the macaroni
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring
• Colander – to drain pasta and artichokes

Creamy Spinach Artichoke Macaroni Cooking Guide

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add the macaroni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta well and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Spinach and Artichokes

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the chopped artichoke hearts and cook for another 2 minutes to combine the flavors. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, grated parmesan, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the spinach and artichokes. Pour the creamy cheese mixture over the pasta and gently stir to coat everything evenly. If you’re using shredded chicken or crumbled turkey bacon, fold them in at this stage to distribute throughout the dish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the macaroni mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle a little extra mozzarella and parmesan on top if desired. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or Spinach Artichoke Chicken Pasta Bake for those who want to explore more inspired meals featuring spinach and artichokes.

Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

• Use gluten-free macaroni pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Replace cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative made from cashews or soy.
• Swap sour cream for coconut cream or a plant-based sour cream alternative.
• Use nutritional yeast in place of parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
• Choose a dairy-free shredded cheese substitute, such as those made from almond or coconut milk.

Chef’s Notes

• For the best flavor, use fresh spinach whenever possible, but baby spinach can work if chopped finely.
• Make sure to soften the cream cheese thoroughly before mixing to avoid lumps in the sauce.
• Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper based on your taste, especially if your cheeses are already salty.
• Adding cooked chicken or turkey bacon is a great way to elevate this dish and make it more filling.
• If you love the classic Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Dip, this macaroni is a fantastic way to enjoy those flavors in a hearty meal.

Storage Pro Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce as needed.
• This dish can be frozen after baking; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly before serving.
• For best texture after reheating, avoid overcooking the pasta initially—al dente holds up better.

FAQ

Can I make this Creamy Spinach Artichoke Macaroni ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the cooked chicken and turkey bacon. The dish is delicious on its own with the creamy spinach and artichokes.

What type of artichoke hearts should I use?

Use canned or jarred artichoke hearts that are drained and chopped. Marinated artichokes add extra flavor but adjust salt accordingly.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

You can, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the dish to avoid a watery sauce.

Reader Favorites

• Spinach Artichoke Chicken Pasta Bake – a hearty, baked pasta with rich spinach and artichoke flavors.
• Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Dip – a creamy, crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for any occasion.

Let’s Eat

Time to dig into this luscious Creamy Spinach Artichoke Macaroni! Each forkful offers a beautiful balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with the bright notes of spinach and tender artichokes. The optional chicken and turkey bacon add that extra layer of flavor and protein, making it a complete meal that satisfies every craving. Whether you serve it for dinner or bring it to a potluck, this dish is sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. Grab your fork, and enjoy every cozy, cheesy bite!

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