Creamy, dreamy, and oh-so-delicious, this pasta dish is a warm hug in a bowl. The combination of creamy sauce and tender spinach makes the rigatoni come alive with flavor. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. Plus, it comes together quickly, making it an easy choice for busy weeknights.

Why You Will Love This Creamy Spinach Rigatoni

This dish is not only tasty but also incredibly easy to prepare. It uses simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. The creamy texture and rich flavor are sure to please both kids and adults. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in some greens, too! With minimal prep time, this recipe is a winner for any cozy meal at home.

How to Make Creamy Spinach Rigatoni

Making this comforting dish is straightforward and beginner-friendly. You’ll start by sautéing onions and then add your cream and spices to create the sauce. Finally, mix in the rigatoni and spinach for a delightful meal that brings everything together.

What You Need

3 cups fresh spinach
2 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 medium onion (finely diced)
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 ½ teaspoon salt
8 oz rigatoni (cooked al dente)

Cooking Steps

On medium high heat, melt the butter with some olive oil. Add the diced onion and 1 teaspoon of salt, sautéing for 5 minutes until the onion turns soft and translucent. Pour in the heavy cream and let it cook, stirring frequently, until it thickens, about 5 minutes. In a small bowl, whisk the flour with 3 tablespoons of water until smooth. Stir the flour mixture into the sauce and cook for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens further. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, ground nutmeg, and fresh spinach. Simmer until the spinach wilts, about 3-5 minutes. Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy spinach sauce. Serve & enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Spinach Rigatoni

This creamy rigatoni pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or some warm garlic bread. You can sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for added flavor. This dish is also great for family gatherings or a cozy evening with friends.

How to Store Creamy Spinach Rigatoni

To keep your leftovers fresh, store the rigatoni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, portion out servings and freeze in airtight containers for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

Recipe Tips

Use fresh spinach for the best taste and texture.
Make sure to cook the rigatoni al dente so it holds up in the sauce.
Add garlic for an extra layer of flavor if desired.
Feel free to use other pasta shapes if you don’t have rigatoni.
Keep the heat moderate to avoid burning the cream sauce.

Variations & Swaps

For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk.
Add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Toss in some sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for additional flavor.
Use frozen spinach if you’re in a pinch; just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy sauce and cook the rigatoni ahead of time. Just combine everything before serving and heat it gently until warmed through.

How do I freeze the leftovers?
Portion the dish into individual servings and place in airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to a month.

What’s the best way to reheat creamy pasta?
Reheat on low heat in a saucepan, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Stir gently to avoid sticking.

Can I substitute the spinach?
Absolutely! You can use kale or even arugula. Just remember to adjust cooking times since they may wilt or soften differently.

What are some common mistakes to avoid?
Avoid cooking the cream sauce on too high of heat, as it can separate. Also, ensure your pasta is cooked al dente to pair well with the sauce.