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Comfort food has an unparalleled ability to evoke nostalgia and bring people together, transforming ordinary moments into cherished memories. The warmth of a well-cooked dish can create a sense of belonging and joy, especially when shared with loved ones. One such dish that embodies these qualities is Cheesy Spinach Delight: Baked Penne Alfredo. This culinary creation marries the rich, creamy flavors of Alfredo sauce with the wholesome goodness of fresh spinach, offering a delightful balance between indulgence and nutrition. Perfect for family gatherings or those cozy nights in, this baked penne dish not only satisfies the palate but also nourishes the body.

Creamy Baked Penne with Spinach & Alfredo

Discover the ultimate comfort food with Cheesy Spinach Delight: Baked Penne Alfredo. This delicious dish combines creamy Alfredo sauce, penne pasta, and the nutritious goodness of fresh spinach, creating a satisfying meal everyone will love. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings, this recipe is easy to follow and can be personalized to suit your taste. Enjoy a hearty dish that nourishes both body and soul while bringing loved ones together.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz penne pasta

2 tbsp olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

6 cups fresh spinach, thoroughly washed and roughly chopped

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup whole milk

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp ground nutmeg

1 tsp Italian seasoning

¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large pot, fill with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a rapid boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

    Sauté the Spinach: In a spacious skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 1 minute, or just until it becomes fragrant. Carefully add the chopped spinach to the skillet, stirring occasionally and cooking until it's wilted and reduced in volume, about 3-4 minutes. Once wilted, remove the skillet from heat.

      Prepare the Alfredo Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and whole milk. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until it is fully melted and the mixture is smooth. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, nutmeg, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you prefer a little heat. Continue to stir for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.

        Combine Pasta and Spinach: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained penne, sautéed spinach, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Pour the prepared Alfredo sauce over the pasta mixture and stir gently until everything is well coated and evenly distributed.

          Prepare for Baking: Transfer the creamy pasta mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese on top for that delicious, bubbly finish.

            Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You're looking for the cheese to become bubbly and develop a golden brown color on top.

              Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes to set a bit. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your Cheesy Spinach Delight!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 50 min | 6 servings