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To create the perfect Creamy Garlic Spinach Penne, you'll need a handful of key ingredients. Here's a closer look at each one and how they contribute to the overall dish:

Creamy Garlic Spinach Penne

Discover the ultimate comfort food with Creamy Garlic Spinach Penne. This luscious dish combines perfectly cooked penne pasta with fresh spinach and a rich, creamy garlic sauce made from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Packed with nutrients from the spinach and the goodness of garlic, it offers a delightful balance of flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and sure to impress everyone at your table. Try it today for a delicious culinary experience.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz penne pasta

2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water for later use, and set the drained pasta aside.

    Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but has not turned brown, as this can make it bitter.

      Add Spinach: Carefully stir in the chopped spinach. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is fully wilted, which should take around 3-4 minutes.

        Make the Cream Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to blend with the sautéed garlic and spinach. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors meld together.

          Incorporate Cheese: Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creamy consistency.

            Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet. Gently toss the pasta in the creamy garlic sauce until each piece is perfectly coated. Season with crushed red pepper flakes (if using), along with salt and pepper to your taste.

              Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the creamy penne to serving plates. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley, and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

                Enjoy! This dish is best served immediately. For an extra touch, drizzle a little olive oil on top and sprinkle additional red pepper flakes for added heat.

                  Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4