Spinach Artichoke Dip Pasta Recipe
This Spinach Artichoke Dip Pasta is a creamy, flavorful comfort dish combining tender pasta with a rich spinach and artichoke cheese sauce. Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal, it blends the classic dip flavors into a satisfying pasta dish that’s both creamy and cheesy with a hint of garlic and spice.
- Author: Natalie
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Pasta
- 8 oz (about 225g) pasta (penne or rigatoni)
Vegetables
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy & Cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Seasonings & Oils
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Create the Dip Base: Lower the heat and add the softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and combines smoothly with the garlic.
- Add Cheese: Gradually stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, continuing until the mixture becomes melted, creamy, and well blended.
- Incorporate Spinach & Artichokes: Fold in the chopped fresh spinach and drained artichoke hearts, mixing thoroughly. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the spinach wilts and the mixture is heated through.
- Add Sour Cream & Season: Stir in the sour cream to enrich the sauce. Add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve a creamy consistency. Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to your taste.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing well to coat all pieces evenly with the creamy spinach artichoke sauce.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the pasta to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh parsley and, if desired, extra Parmesan cheese. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use penne or rigatoni as they hold the creamy sauce well.
- For a spicier version, increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add more reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- For extra richness, stir in a little grated cheddar or cream at the end.
- Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of milk or water.
Keywords: Spinach Artichoke Dip Pasta, Creamy Spinach Pasta, Easy Comfort Food, Vegetarian Pasta, Cheesy Artichoke Pasta