Get ready to experience a mind-blowing fusion of classic comfort food and gourmet Italian flavors! This Creamy Pesto Mac with Spinach is not just another pasta dish - it's a culinary adventure that will transform your weeknight dinner from ordinary to extraordinary. Imagine a creamy, herbaceous sauce coating perfectly cooked macaroni, with vibrant spinach adding a nutritious punch that'll make your taste buds dance with joy!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces macaroni pasta
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 ounces of macaroni pasta, 1 cup of chopped spinach, 1/2 cup of pesto sauce, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add a generous pinch of salt to the water.
- Add the macaroni pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the creamy pesto sauce. In a separate saucepan, combine the heavy cream and pesto sauce over medium heat. Stir gently to combine and heat through, but do not let it boil.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander. Return the drained pasta to the pot.
- Pour the creamy pesto mixture over the drained macaroni pasta in the pot. Add the chopped spinach and stir well to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix well until the cheese is melted and incorporated into the sauce.
- Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as necessary.
- Remove the pot from heat and let it sit for a minute to thicken slightly.
- Serve the creamy pesto mac with spinach warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh basil if desired.
Tips
- Pasta Perfection: Always cook your pasta al dente - it should have a slight bite to prevent mushiness when mixed with the sauce.
- Sauce Consistency Magic: Reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid is your secret weapon for adjusting sauce thickness and helping the sauce cling to the pasta.
- Fresh is Best: If possible, use fresh homemade or high-quality store-bought pesto for maximum flavor impact.
- Cheese Tip: Grate your Parmesan fresh for the most intense flavor and smoothest melting.
- Spinach Hack: Add the spinach when the pasta is still hot to help it wilt slightly without overcooking, maintaining its bright green color and nutrients.
- Optional Upgrades: Consider adding some toasted pine nuts or grilled chicken for extra protein and crunch.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve immediately while hot and creamy for the best texture and flavor experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 36g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 100mg
