If you’re searching for a dish that embodies warmth, creaminess, and pure comfort, this Baked Creamed Spinach Pasta is exactly what you need. Combining tender whole-wheat penne with velvety creamed spinach and a cheesy topping, this casserole is the ultimate weeknight meal. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. It’s easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and customizable to suit your preferences.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
What makes this pasta bake so special is its ability to elevate a classic comfort food—creamed spinach—into a hearty, satisfying main dish. The creamy sauce, enriched with reduced-fat cream cheese, Parmesan, and a touch of nutritional yeast, strikes the perfect balance between tangy, cheesy, and savory. Fresh ingredients like lemon zest, garlic, and shallots add layers of brightness and depth, while baby spinach brings vibrant color and a nutritional boost.
The use of whole-wheat penne not only adds heartiness but also increases the dish’s protein and fiber content, making it a smarter choice for your health. Topped with gooey, melted mozzarella cheese and broiled until golden, this dish is as indulgent as it is nutritious. Garnished with fresh parsley, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Gathering Ingredients: The Foundation of Flavor
The beauty of this recipe lies in its thoughtful combination of ingredients, each contributing something unique to the final dish. At its core is whole-wheat penne, a nutrient-dense pasta that provides sustained energy and supports digestive health. Paired with baby spinach, the dish gains a wealth of vitamins and antioxidants, including vitamin C, folate, and vitamin K.
To create the creamy sauce, we use a blend of reduced-fat cream cheese, half-and-half, and Parmesan cheese. These ingredients come together to form a rich, velvety base that’s lightened by the addition of lemon zest and nutmeg. Nutritional yeast (optional) adds a cheesy flavor and a boost of vitamin B12, making it a great addition for vegetarians.
For added texture and flavor, we sauté shallots and garlic before wilting the spinach in the same pan. A sprinkle of all-purpose flour helps thicken the sauce, ensuring it clings beautifully to the pasta. Finally, low-moisture mozzarella cheese provides a gooey, melty topping that browns beautifully under the broiler.
