Description
Smoked Cream Cheese Pasta is a delightful fusion of creamy and smoky flavors that will elevate your dinner experience. This quick and easy recipe features al dente pasta enveloped in a rich cream cheese sauce, enhanced with garlic and smoked paprika. Fresh spinach adds vibrant color and nutrition, while grated Parmesan provides a perfect finishing touch. Ideal for family gatherings or casual get-togethers, this dish is sure to impress and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz pasta of your choice (penne or fusilli recommended)
- 8 oz full-fat cream cheese
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh herbs (basil or parsley) for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the cream cheese with a splash of reserved pasta water until smooth.
- Stir in minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add fresh spinach and stir until wilted (about 2 minutes).
- Toss in the drained pasta, coating it evenly with the sauce. Add more reserved pasta water if needed for creaminess.
- Serve topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped herbs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 55mg