When it comes to comfort food, few ingredients evoke a sense of warmth and coziness like spinach. Whether youβre looking for a satisfying main dish or a flavorful side, spinach is a versatile ingredient that can elevate any meal. And when combined with rich and creamy sauces, the result is nothing short of heavenly.
In this article, weβll be exploring 20 delicious and creamy spinach recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. From classic combinations like chicken and mushroom to seafood-inspired dishes like shrimp and scallops, these recipes showcase the best of what spinach has to offer. Whether youβre a busy parent looking for quick weeknight meals or a culinary enthusiast seeking inspiration for special occasions, youβll find something on this list that suits your taste.
Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your dinner game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the richness of cream, the earthiness of mushrooms, and the tenderness of chicken breast.
Ingredients:
β 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
β 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
β 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
β 1/2 cup heavy cream
β 2 cloves garlic, minced
β 1 tsp dried thyme
β Salt and pepper to taste
β 1 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
2. In a pan over medium heat, sautΓ© mushrooms and garlic until tender.
3. Add heavy cream, spinach leaves, and thyme; stir until combined.
4. Lay chicken breasts flat; make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
5. Stuff each breast with the mushroom-spinach mixture.
6. Close the incision and secure with toothpicks (if necessary).
7. Dot the top of each breast with butter.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Spinach and Shrimp Pasta
Garlic Butter Spinach and Shrimp Pasta: A flavorful and healthy pasta dish that combines the richness of garlic butter with the freshness of spinach and succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
β 12 oz. linguine pasta
β 2 cloves garlic, minced
β 2 tbsp unsalted butter
β 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
β 1/2 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
β Salt and pepper to taste
β Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sautΓ© for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and stir until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, garlic butter mixture, and reserved pasta water in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine.
6. Add cooked shrimp and toss gently to distribute evenly.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the earthy flavor of spinach, all wrapped up in tender pasta shells. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
β 12 jumbo pasta shells
β 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
β 1 cup ricotta cheese
β 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
β 1 egg, beaten
β Salt and pepper to taste
β 1 tablespoon olive oil
β Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a 9Γ13-inch baking dish; drizzle with olive oil.
6. Top with marinara sauce and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Bake
Elevate your dinner routine with this creamy, flavorful chicken bake that combines the best of spinach, artichokes, and chicken. This comforting casserole is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
β 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
β 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
β 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
β 1 cup cream of chicken soup
β 1/2 cup mayonnaise
β 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
β 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
β Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, artichoke hearts, spinach, cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper; mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9Γ13-inch baking dish.
4. Top with shredded cheese and breadcrumbs.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
Elevate your dinner game with this show-stopping pork tenderloin, packed with a flavorful spinach and feta filling.
Ingredients:
β 1 (1-1.5 pound) pork tenderloin
β 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
β 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
β 1 tablespoon olive oil
β 1 clove garlic, minced
β Salt and pepper to taste
β Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, and garlic.
3. Butterfly the pork tenderloin by cutting it lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through.
4. Stuff the spinach-feta mixture into the pork, spreading evenly throughout.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the pork and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place the stuffed pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through to an internal temperature of 145Β°F (63Β°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this flavorful recipe that combines tender beef, spinach, and melted cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
β 1 pound ground beef
β 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
β 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
β 1 egg
β 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
β 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
β Salt and pepper to taste
β Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, spinach, cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, and parsley. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Creamy Spinach and Bacon Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the addition of crispy bacon and wilted spinach. This comforting dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
β 8 oz macaroni
β 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
β 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
β 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
β 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
β 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
β 2 tsp paprika
β 1/2 tsp salt
β 1/4 tsp black pepper
β 2 tbsp butter
β 2 cups milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, sautΓ© spinach and crumbled bacon in butter until wilted.
4. In a separate pot, melt butter and whisk together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, cheese mixture, and spinach mixture. Stir until smooth.
6. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Spinach and Mushroom Lasagna Rolls
Elevate your pasta game with this creative take on traditional lasagna. Spinach, mushrooms, and mozzarella cheese come together in a deliciously flavorful roll.
Ingredients:
β 8-10 lasagna noodles
β 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
β 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
β 2 cloves garlic, minced
β 1 cup ricotta cheese
β 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
β 1 egg, beaten
β Salt and pepper to taste
β Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions.
3. In a skillet, sautΓ© mushrooms and garlic until tender. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
4. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Lay a cooked lasagna noodle flat on a surface. Spread about 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture along the center of the noodle.
6. Add a spoonful of the mushroom-spinach mixture on top of the cheese.
7. Roll the noodle tightly, starting from one end. Repeat with remaining noodles and filling.
8. Place rolls seam-side down in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Spinach and Salmon Bake
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the richness of salmon, the creaminess of parmesan, and the boldness of garlic. This one-pot wonder is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
β 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
β 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed
β 2 cloves garlic, minced
β 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
β 1/4 cup olive oil
β Salt and pepper to taste
β Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C).
2. Line a 9Γ13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets in the prepared dish.
4. In a bowl, mix together spinach, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and sprinkle the spinach mixture evenly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until salmon is cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken dish with this flavorful and healthy recipe that combines the creaminess of goat cheese, the earthiness of spinach, and the juiciness of chicken.
Ingredients:
β 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
β 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
β 2 tablespoons olive oil
β 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
β 1 clove garlic, minced
β Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, goat cheese, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-goat cheese mixture.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and flavorful dish that combines the earthiness of spinach with the tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes. This recipe is a quick and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
β 8 oz. pasta of your choice
β 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
β 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
β 2 cloves garlic, minced
β 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
β 1/2 cup heavy cream
β Salt and pepper to taste
β Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sautΓ© garlic and sun-dried tomatoes in a little bit of olive oil over medium heat until fragrant.
3. Add fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and creamy spinach mixture. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Sausage Stuffed Peppers
Brighten up your mealtime with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, featuring sweet bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of spinach, sausage, and cheese.
Ingredients:
β 4 large bell peppers, any color
β 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
β 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
β 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
β 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
β 1 tablespoon olive oil
β Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add spinach, cheese, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
5. Stuff each pepper with the sausage mixture and top with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Parmesan
Elevate your chicken parmesan game with this flavorful twist, featuring fresh spinach and melted mozzarella cheese inside crispy breaded chicken breasts.
Ingredients:
β 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
β 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
β 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
β 1 cup breadcrumbs
β 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
β 1 egg, beaten
β Salt and pepper to taste
β Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
β Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375Β°F.
2. In a bowl, combine spinach, mozzarella cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the spinach-mozzarella mixture.
4. Dip stuffed chicken breasts in beaten egg and then coat in breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
5. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve with marinara sauce and chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Spinach and Crab Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent dish, featuring jumbo shells packed with a rich blend of spinach, crab meat, and creamy cheese.
Ingredients:
β 12 jumbo pasta shells
β 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
β 1/2 cup lump crab meat
β 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
β 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
β 1 egg, beaten
β 1 tablespoon olive oil
β Salt and pepper to taste
β 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
β 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375Β°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, crab meat, Parmesan cheese, ricotta cheese, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach-crab mixture, placing them in a 9Γ13-inch baking dish.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the shells, followed by marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Pesto Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed mushrooms, this recipe combines the earthy flavor of portobellos with the brightness of spinach and pesto.
Ingredients:
β 4 large Portobello mushrooms
β 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
β 2 tablespoons store-bought or homemade pesto
β 1 tablespoon olive oil
β Salt and pepper to taste
β 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
2. Clean the mushroom caps by gently scraping out the gills with a spoon.
3. In a bowl, mix together spinach leaves and pesto.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the spinach-pesto mixture, dividing it evenly among the four mushrooms.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top of the mushrooms.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of spinach and cheese with the tender juiciness of chicken thighs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, these stuffed chicken breasts are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
β 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
β 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
β 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
β 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
β 1 tablespoon olive oil
β Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese until well combined.
3. Lay chicken thighs flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket. Stuff each thigh with the spinach-cheese mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Creamy Spinach and Ham Quiche
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this creamy, savory quiche packed with spinach, ham, and a hint of nutmeg. This recipe is perfect for a crowd-pleasing dish thatβs easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
β 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
β 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
β 6 slices cooked ham, diced
β 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
β 1 cup heavy cream
β 2 large eggs
β 1/2 teaspoon salt
β 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
β 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a large skillet, sautΓ© spinach, ham, and butter until the spinach is wilted.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
5. Arrange the cooked spinach mixture into the pie crust, followed by pouring in the cream-egg mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti
A classic Italian dish gets a delicious twist with the addition of spinach and ricotta cheese, making it a satisfying and flavorful meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
β 12 manicotti shells
β 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
β 1 cup ricotta cheese
β 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
β 1 egg, beaten
β Salt and pepper to taste
β 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
2. Cook manicotti shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked manicotti shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture.
5. Place stuffed manicotti in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Spinach and Scallops Risotto
Elevate your dinner game with this creamy and flavorful risotto dish, featuring succulent scallops, wilted spinach, and a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
β 1 cup Arborio rice
β 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
β 2 tablespoons olive oil
β 2 cloves garlic, minced
β 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
β 1 pound scallops, rinsed and patted dry
β 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
β 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
β Salt and pepper, to taste
β Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. Add wine (if using) and broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. After 20 minutes of cooking, add scallops and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Stir in spinach and butter until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this decadent dish featuring crispy chicken, creamy spinach, and melted brie cheese. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
β 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
β 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
β 2 tablespoons butter
β 2 cloves garlic, minced
β 1/2 cup brie cheese, crumbled
β 1 teaspoon salt
β 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, butter, garlic, and salt.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the spinach mixture.
4. Top each breast with crumbled brie cheese.
5. Season with black pepper.
6. Place stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, spinach-filled delights! This article presents 20 mouth-watering main dish recipes that showcase the versatility and flavor of spinach. From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and stuffed shells to seafood options like shrimp pasta and salmon bake, thereβs something for everyone. Whether youβre a fan of chicken, pork, or even quiche, these creative recipes will inspire your next meal. Discover new ways to incorporate spinach into your cooking routine and elevate your dinner game!
