Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Pasta 💕
You know that warm, gooey spinach and artichoke dip that disappears first at every party? Yeah. Now imagine that wrapped around tender noodles, loaded with melty cheese, and made into a meal. Pure magic, right?
This Spinach and Artichoke Dip Pasta brings together two ultimate comfort food favorites in one creamy, dreamy dish that’s perfect for weeknights, date nights, or when you just need a hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple and quick—ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need 📝
Here’s what you’ll need to make this cheesy masterpiece:
- 1/2 lb pasta (penne, rigatoni, or any shape that hugs sauce!)
- 3 tbsp butter
- A dash of olive oil
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups fresh spinach (you can also use frozen—just thaw and squeeze out excess water)
- 6 oz marinated artichoke hearts, chopped
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 3 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 cup grated Parmesan
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika – for flavor explosion!
- Reserved pasta water – this helps make the sauce extra silky
Step-by-Step: How to Make Spinach and Artichoke Dip Pasta 🍝
1. Boil That Pasta!
Start by cooking your pasta in a pot of salted water until just al dente (we want it to finish cooking in the sauce later). Before draining, scoop out about a cup of the pasta water and set it aside—you’ll thank me later!
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pan, melt your butter with a dash of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, toss in your diced onion with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until the onions are soft and golden (about 3-4 minutes).
Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook just until fragrant—don’t let it burn!
3. Add the Greens & Artichokes
Toss in your spinach and artichokes. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Stir everything together and let the spinach wilt down—it’ll seem like a lot at first, but trust the process!
4. Make it Creamy ✨
Pour in your heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Then add in the cream cheese and stir until it melts into the sauce. It’ll start to thicken and become luscious and creamy.
5. Time for the Pasta Party
Add your cooked pasta to the sauce along with the mozzarella and Parmesan. Stir until the cheese melts and everything is well combined. Add a splash (or two!) of that reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and get it extra creamy and glossy.
6. Serve and Sprinkle More Cheese!
Plate it up and don’t be shy—go ahead and top it with even more Parmesan. You deserve it.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Spinach & Artichoke Pasta 👩🍳
- Use short pasta shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or penne—they hold the sauce beautifully.
- Don’t skip the pasta water! It’s liquid gold and helps emulsify the sauce into silky perfection.
- Add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon if you want to bulk it up.
- Make it spicy with a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce stirred into the cream sauce.
- Bake it if you’re into that cheesy crust—pop it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes!
Make It Ahead or Meal Prep It! 🍱
This pasta reheats like a dream! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or cream to bring it back to life.
You can also prep the sauce in advance, then just cook your pasta and toss it all together when you’re ready to eat.
Why This Recipe Works (According to Science-ish 🤓)
This dish is all about emulsion. The combination of cheese, cream, and pasta water creates a thick, glossy sauce that clings to every bite. The artichokes add a slight tang, while the spinach gives you those “hey-I’m-being-healthy” vibes. It’s rich but balanced—thanks to the acidity and a touch of spice.
Final Thoughts: A Hug in a Bowl 🫶
Spinach and Artichoke Dip Pasta is basically what happens when cozy meets indulgent. It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy but is secretly so easy. Whether you’re hosting friends or just craving something comforting, this pasta never disappoints.
So grab your favorite spoon (or just use the fork straight from the pan—we’re not judging) and dig in. You earned this cheesy masterpiece!
Craving more pasta night ideas?
Check out my Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta or Garlic Butter Tomato Pasta next!