Spinach and artichoke are a classic pairing, often found in creamy dips served at parties. But have you tried combining them in a pasta bake? The resulting Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Bake is a comforting yet elegant meal that's perfect for any occasion. The creamy texture of the cheese mixes with the earthy spinach and tangy artichoke to create something truly special. Plus, it’s a vegetarian delight that even meat-lovers will enjoy.
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Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Bake
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📖Printable Recipe:
Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Bake
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoon butter
- 1 medium white onion chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 can 350 g artichoke hearts
- 150 g 5 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ cup cream cheese
- 150 g 5 oz pasta shells
- sliced scallions
- 150 g 5 oz mozzarella, shredded
- ¼ cup parmesan
- 450 ml 1 ¾ cups chicken stock
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 190C/375F.
- In a large pan melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Saute onions for 5 minutes, mix in artichoke hearts and add spinach after 1 minute. Cook spinach for another 4-5 minutes, then add garlic, lemon zest, scallions, lemon juice, cream cheese, salt and pepper.2 tablespoon olive oil, 2 tablespoon butter, 1 medium white onion, 3 garlic cloves, 1 can, 150 g 5 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained, zest of 1 lemon, sliced scallions
- Mix in pasta shells and ½ mozzarella. Pour chicken stock and bring to a boil.150 g 5 oz pasta shells, 150 g 5 oz mozzarella, shredded, 450 ml 1 ¾ cups chicken stock
- Transfer boiling sauce into the baking pan, cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and top with remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Bake for 25 minutes more.150 g 5 oz mozzarella, shredded, ¼ cup parmesan
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Nutrition
📋Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoon butter
- 1 medium white onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (350 g) artichoke hearts
- 150 g (5 oz) frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ cup cream cheese
- 150 g (5 oz) pasta shells
- sliced scallions
- 150 g (5 oz) mozzarella, shredded
- ¼ cup parmesan
- 450 ml (1 ¾ cups) chicken stock
🔪How Do I Make It?
Preheat the oven to 190C/375F.
in a large pan melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Saute onions for 5 minutes, mix in artichoke hearts and add spinach after 1 minute. Cook spinach for another 4-5 minutes, then add garlic, lemon zest, scallions, lemon juice, cream cheese, salt and pepper.
Mix in pasta shells and ½ mozzarella. Pour chicken stock and bring to a boil.
Transfer boiling sauce into the baking pan, cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and top with remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Bake for 25 minutes more.
🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?
The Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Bake can be a meal in itself, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the dining experience. Here are some delicious and complementary options:
Garlic Bread
A classic choice, garlic bread complements the creamy pasta bake perfectly. The crispy edges and soft, buttery center make it ideal for sopping up any extra sauce.
Fresh Arugula Salad
A light, peppery arugula salad drizzled with a simple lemon vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the dish. Add some shaved Parmesan and cherry tomatoes to enhance the flavors.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasting vegetables like carrots, brussels sprouts, or asparagus brings out their natural sweetness and provides a delightful textural contrast to the creamy pasta.
Tomato Basil Bruschetta
The fresh flavors of tomato and basil on toasted baguette slices offer a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy, cheesy pasta bake.
Steamed Asparagus with Lemon
Steamed asparagus spears with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of sea salt add a light and vibrant touch to your meal.
Herb-Infused Olive Oil Dip
Serving a small bowl of herb-infused olive oil with crusty bread can be a simple yet elegant starter that ties the whole meal together.
Each of these sides not only complements the pasta bake but also adds variety and nutritional balance to your dinner table. Whether you're hosting a small gathering or enjoying a family meal, these accompaniments make the Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Bake even more enjoyable.
⏲️Chef's Tip
Taking your Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Bake from delicious to extraordinary is all in the details. Here are some professional tips to elevate your dish:
Use High-Quality Ingredients
Opt for fresh spinach if available, and choose high-quality artichoke hearts packed in water rather than oil. These choices contribute to a cleaner and more vibrant flavor profile.
Perfectly Cooked Pasta
Ensure your pasta is cooked al dente before incorporating it into the dish. Remember, the pasta will continue to soften in the oven, and starting with perfectly cooked pasta prevents it from becoming mushy.
Seasoning Matters
Don’t skimp on the seasoning. Balance the creamy richness with the right amount of salt, pepper, and a hint of lemon juice. These elements bring out the best in your ingredients, offering a well-rounded taste experience.
Luscious Cheese Layer
When adding mozzarella, use a combination of shredded and small chunks. This mix creates pools of melty cheese as well as a gooey, stringy texture that is irresistible.
Create a Crunchy Topping
Elevate the texture by adding a mix of panko breadcrumbs and grated parmesan on top before the final bake. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over this layer to ensure a golden, crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta.
Mind the Bake Time
Covering the bake with foil helps the pasta absorb the flavors and prevents it from drying out. Removing the foil during the last 25 minutes ensures a bubbly, golden finish. Keep an eye on the top layer to prevent over-browning.
Rest Before Serving
Let the pasta bake rest for 5-10 minutes after it comes out of the oven. This resting period allows the dish to set, making it easier to serve and enjoy.
By following these chef’s tips, your Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Bake will not only be a treat for the palate but also a memorable centerpiece for any meal.
💭Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Fresh Spinach Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can. Just make sure to sauté it until it wilts and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the dish.
Is There a Vegan Version of This Recipe?
Absolutely! Replace the butter with a vegan alternative, use plant-based cream cheese, and substitute the mozzarella and parmesan with vegan cheese options. Instead of chicken stock, use vegetable broth.
How Long Does It Keep?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month; just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Add Protein to the Dish?
If you aren't strictly vegetarian, feel free to add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even tofu to the mix for an added protein boost.
🥘More Easy Casseroles
One of my favorite things about this this particular dish is that it's just straight-up creamy and that's strongly due to the cheese in this beautiful pasta dish. Cheese just makes the world a creamier place! If you're of the same mind, be sure to check out these other obsession-worthy creamy pasta casseroles you'll love:
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