Let’s Talk About Spinach Artichoke Dip Pasta 😍
Okay, if you’ve ever licked the bowl clean of spinach artichoke dip at a party (hi, guilty 🙋♀️), this pasta is for you. It’s got everything you love about that creamy, cheesy, tangy dip — but we’re tossing it with rigatoni to turn it into the ultimate comfort food dinner. Think of it as party dip meets pasta bake. YES PLEASE.
Honestly, I’m rigaTOTALLY obsessed. And I know you will be too. Let’s break it down, step by step!
Why You’ll Love This Spinach Artichoke Pasta
- ✔️ One pot of cozy, creamy comfort
- ✔️ Uses pantry + freezer staples
- ✔️ Broiled cheesy topping? YES.
- ✔️ Packed with spinach (so it’s kinda healthy?)
This dish tastes like the fancy version of something you’d order at a restaurant but takes less than 30 minutes to pull off in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this creamy rigatoni pasta:
- Rigatoni pasta – Its ridges catch all that creamy sauce. Dreamy.
- Butter & olive oil – For that rich flavor base.
- Onion & garlic – Classic aromatics that bring it all together.
- Fresh spinach – Cooks down into the sauce and adds a boost of greens.
- Marinated artichokes – Tangy, flavorful, and so underrated!
- Heavy cream, cream cheese, sour cream – This trio makes the sauce luscious.
- Mozzarella & Parmesan – Melty, cheesy goodness.
- Spices – Salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of paprika for depth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Boil Your Pasta
Cook one package of rigatoni in salted water until just al dente. Don’t forget to save at least 1 cup of pasta water before draining — it’s gold for the sauce.
2. Sauté the Base
In a large pan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter with a splash of olive oil. Add ½ a diced onion, season with salt and pepper, and cook until softened. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Add the Spinach and Artichokes
Toss in 2 cups of fresh spinach and 6oz of chopped marinated artichokes. Season with more salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of paprika. Stir everything together and let the spinach wilt down.
4. Make It Creamy
Pour in 1½ cups of heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in 2 tablespoons of cream cheese and 1 tablespoon of sour cream. Let everything melt together until smooth.
5. Add the Pasta and Cheese
Add your cooked rigatoni to the sauce along with ½ cup of shredded mozzarella, 1 cup of grated Parmesan, and a splash of reserved pasta water. Stir until the pasta is fully coated and creamy. Add more pasta water as needed for your ideal consistency.
6. Broil That Cheesy Topping
Top the pasta with more mozzarella and Parmesan. Pop the pan under the broiler for about 5 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
7. Serve and Swoon
Finish with another sprinkle of Parmesan and maybe a little fresh basil if you’re feelin’ fancy. Serve hot and dig in!
Tips & Variations
- Add protein: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken or crispy bacon for an extra hearty version.
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes for a little heat!
- Bake it fully: Want a baked version? Transfer to a casserole dish, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes! Just thaw and drain it really well before adding it to the pan.
What’s the best pasta shape?
Rigatoni is perfect for catching the sauce, but penne, fusilli, or even shells would work too.
Can I make it ahead?
Totally! Assemble everything, refrigerate, and broil right before serving.
Final Thoughts 💭
This Spinach Artichoke Dip Pasta is the ultimate mash-up of comfort food classics. Whether you’re feeding your family or just looking for a feel-good weeknight dinner, it’s guaranteed to impress. It’s creamy, cheesy, packed with veggies, and ridiculously easy to make.
Save this one—you’re going to crave it again real soon. 😋