5-Ingredient Spinach & Pasta Alfredo

If you’re on the lookout for a creamy, comforting dish that won’t weigh you down, look no further than this 5-Ingredient Spinach & Pasta Alfredo. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe brings together the rich flavors of creamy alfredo sauce and vibrant spinach, all enveloping whole-grain spaghetti. It’s a dish that comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

Imagine twirling your fork through perfectly cooked spaghetti, coated in a velvety sauce that’s both indulgent and nutritious. The baby spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients, making this dish not just delicious but also satisfying. Plus, the best part? You can whip this up in around 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This 5-Ingredient Spinach & Pasta Alfredo is a keeper for several reasons:

– **Simplicity**: With only five ingredients, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making dinner a breeze.
– **Quick Preparation**: Ready in just about 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights.
– **Flavorful**: The cream cheese creates a rich, creamy texture that’s complemented by the freshness of spinach.
– **Healthy Twist**: Using whole-grain pasta elevates the dish, adding fiber and nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
– **Versatile**: You can customize it by adding your favorite proteins or vegetables, making it adaptable to your taste.

Gather These Ingredients

To whip up your 5-Ingredient Spinach & Pasta Alfredo, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth – This adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
• 8 ounces cream cheese, fat-free – Cubed for easy melting into a creamy sauce.
• 6 cups baby spinach – Fresh and vibrant, providing color and nutrients.
• 1 pound whole-grain spaghetti – The base of the dish, adding heartiness and fiber.
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, part-skim, low-fat, shredded – For that cheesy goodness and added creaminess.

Equipment Breakdown

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:

• Large pot – For boiling the spaghetti.
• Large skillet – To prepare the alfredo sauce.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring the sauce and pasta.
• Colander – To drain the spaghetti.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.

5-Ingredient Spinach & Pasta Alfredo: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow this simple guide to create your delicious 5-Ingredient Spinach & Pasta Alfredo:

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the whole-grain spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti in a colander and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In a large skillet, combine the vegetable broth and cubed cream cheese over medium heat. Stir gently until the cream cheese begins to melt and combine with the broth, creating a smooth sauce.

Step 3: Add the Spinach

Once the cream cheese is fully melted, add the baby spinach to the skillet. Stir continuously until the spinach wilts down, about 2-3 minutes. The vibrant green will look gorgeous against the creamy sauce.

Step 4: Combine Spaghetti and Sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the spaghetti is well coated with the creamy spinach alfredo sauce.

Step 5: Finish with Mozzarella

Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta. Stir until the cheese melts and is evenly distributed throughout the dish.

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

If you’re looking to make a low-carb or keto-friendly version of the 5-Ingredient Spinach & Pasta Alfredo, consider the following alternatives:

• Zucchini noodles (zoodles) – Use spiralized zucchini instead of spaghetti for a low-carb base.
• Shirataki noodles – These are low-carb and can be a great substitute for traditional pasta.
• Full-fat cream cheese – For a richer flavor, you might opt for full-fat cream cheese.
• Parmesan cheese – Swap mozzarella for grated Parmesan for a stronger cheese flavor.

If You’re Curious

You might be wondering about some additional tips and tricks for making the best 5-Ingredient Spinach & Pasta Alfredo. Here are a few:

• For added flavor, try sautéing some garlic in the skillet before adding the vegetable broth and cream cheese.
• Feel free to mix in proteins such as grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
• Experiment with different greens like kale or arugula for a unique twist.
• Top with freshly cracked black pepper and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

If you’re planning to meal prep or store leftovers of your 5-Ingredient Spinach & Pasta Alfredo, here’s what you need to know:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. You may need to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the sauce as it thickens when stored.

• Freezing: While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

Common Questions

Can I use regular pasta instead of whole-grain?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta you prefer, but whole-grain adds extra nutrients and fiber.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you prefer a different creamy base, you can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, opt for a dairy-free cream cheese and a dairy-free shredded cheese alternative.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas would be delicious additions to make this dish more filling.

Quick Weeknight Wins

If you love this 5-Ingredient Spinach & Pasta Alfredo, you might also enjoy these quick and easy recipes:

• Easy Chicken Stir-Fry – Whip up a colorful stir-fry in no time!
• One-Pot Vegetable Rice – A simple and satisfying meal.
• Quick Taco Salad – Fresh, flavorful, and ready in minutes.
• Simple Salmon Bowl – Healthy and delicious!

Ready to Cook?

Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to dive into creating your delicious 5-Ingredient Spinach & Pasta Alfredo. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends and family, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and let the simplicity of this recipe shine through in your kitchen! Happy cooking!