Creamy Spinach Artichoke Pasta Bake

This Creamy Spinach Artichoke Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort dish that combines tender pasta with a luscious, cheesy spinach and artichoke filling. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s perfect for cozy weeknights or casual gatherings. Packed with fresh spinach, tangy artichoke hearts, and a creamy blend of cheeses, this pasta bake is both satisfying and simple to prepare. The addition of cooked chicken makes it a hearty one-dish dinner that everyone will love. Whether you’re a busy home cook or just craving a tasty casserole, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This Creamy Spinach Artichoke Pasta Bake is tried-and-true for several reasons. First, the combination of cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a rich, velvety sauce that clings beautifully to every piece of penne or rotini. The balance of fresh spinach and artichokes adds vibrant flavor and texture without overpowering the dish. Using cooked chicken ensures protein is integrated seamlessly, making it a complete meal. The recipe’s seasoning is simple but effective: garlic, onion powder, and optional red pepper flakes add depth and a hint of warmth. Plus, the steps are straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. This is comfort food that never disappoints.

What to Buy

• 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini work best for holding sauce)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped – fresh gives the best flavor and color
• 1 can (14 ounces) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped – canned artichokes are tender and convenient
• 1 cup cooked chicken, diced – rotisserie chicken works perfectly
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened – this is the base for the creamy sauce
• 1 cup sour cream – adds tang and richness
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – melts beautifully for gooey texture
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – for a sharp, nutty flavor
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic is key for aroma and taste
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – rounds out the seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing garlic and spinach
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – for a subtle kick

Gear Checklist

• Large pot – to boil pasta
• Colander – for draining pasta and artichokes
• Large skillet – to sauté garlic and spinach
• Mixing bowl – to combine sauce ingredients
• 9×13 inch baking dish – for assembling and baking the casserole
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for mixing
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient quantities

Cook Creamy Spinach Artichoke Pasta Bake Like This

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Spinach

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic-spinach mixture, chopped artichoke hearts, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

Add the cooked pasta and diced chicken to the creamy mixture. Stir to coat everything evenly. Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from the oven and let the bake cool for 5 minutes before serving. This pause helps the sauce thicken slightly, making it easier to plate. Enjoy this comforting dish with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Quick Replacement Ideas

• Use Tuscan Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake for a similar flavor profile with a twist.
• Swap cooked chicken for cooked turkey or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Replace cream cheese with mascarpone for a richer sauce.
• Use gluten-free pasta if needed to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Try Spinach Mushroom Alfredo Lasagna for a layered alternative featuring spinach and creamy sauce.

What Could Go Wrong

• Soggy pasta: Overcooking pasta or baking with too much sauce can lead to a mushy texture. Make sure to cook pasta al dente and measure sauce ingredients carefully.
• Watery sauce: If the spinach isn’t well-drained or the artichokes release excess liquid, the sauce could be thin. Sauté spinach thoroughly and drain artichokes well before mixing.
• Burnt garlic: Garlic cooks quickly and can become bitter if burnt. Sauté on medium heat and watch closely during the cooking process.
• Uneven baking: Using a dish that’s too large or shallow may cause the bake to dry out. Use the recommended size for best results.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

This Creamy Spinach Artichoke Pasta Bake stores exceptionally well. To keep it fresh:

• Cool completely before covering tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 350°F oven until heated through.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate it unbaked. When ready to eat, simply bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.

What type of pasta works best?

Penne or rotini are ideal because their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce nicely. However, rigatoni or fusilli would also work well if you prefer a different pasta shape.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out as much water as possible before adding it to prevent excess moisture in the bake.

How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that enhances flavor without overpowering the dish. If you prefer no heat, simply omit them.

Next Up in Your Queue

• Tuscan Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake – a savory baked dish bursting with Mediterranean flavors.
• Spinach Mushroom Alfredo Lasagna – creamy, cheesy, and loaded with veggies.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken – rich, garlicky comfort food that’s easy to make.
• One Pot Tomato Basil Pasta – a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.

Before You Go

If you loved this Creamy Spinach Artichoke Pasta Bake, don’t forget to bookmark it for your next cozy night in. The combination of fresh greens, tender chicken, and creamy cheese filling is irresistible and sure to please any crowd. For a little extra flair, pair it with a crisp salad or warm garlic bread. Thanks for stopping by, and happy cooking!

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