Simple Homemade Creamy Garlic and Spinach Pasta Bake

Ingredients

• •12 ounces (340g) penne or pasta of choice
• •2 tablespoons olive oil
• •4 garlic cloves, minced
• •3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• •2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• •2 cups whole milk
• •1/2 cup heavy cream
• •1 teaspoon dried oregano
• •1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• •1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• •1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• •1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• •1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• •1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. 2

   Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

3. 3

   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

4. 4

   Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

5. 5

   Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the spinach and stir well to combine.

6. 6

   Gradually add the milk and heavy cream to the skillet while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.

7. 7

   Season the sauce with oregano, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.

8. 8

   Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.

9. 9

   Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly.

10. 10

    Top with shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan, and breadcrumbs (if using).

11. 11

    Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

12. 12

    Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.