Rigatoni Florentine Aka Spinach and Cheese Dip Pasta

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Rigatoni Florentine, also known as Spinach and Cheese Dip Pasta—a luscious fusion of creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty pasta. This baked pasta dish combines tender rigatoni with a velvety spinach and cheese sauce that’s reminiscent of your favorite party dip. Featuring a trio of cream cheese, parmesan, and mozzarella, the sauce is rich and indulgent, complemented by the earthy flavor of sautéed spinach and a subtle kick of garlic. Topped with golden, bubbly cheese and fresh parsley, this one-pan recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Ready in just 40 minutes, this creamy spinach pasta bake will delight your taste buds with every bite!

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 16 oz rigatoni pasta
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 10 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
• 0.5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil and set aside.

Step 3

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn.

Step 4

Sprinkle the flour over the butter and garlic, whisking constantly to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

Step 5

Slowly pour in the whole milk, whisking constantly to create a smooth sauce. Allow the sauce to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 6

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese until fully melted and smooth.

Step 7

Mix in the grated parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and combined.

Step 8

Add the thawed and drained chopped spinach, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 9

Add the cooked rigatoni pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.

Step 10

Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 11

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and slightly golden on top.

Step 12

Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Step 13

Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1600.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2534.5

Total Fat 145.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 78.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.2g
Cholesterol 417.9mg	0%
Sodium 3579.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 199.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 16.7g	0%
Total Sugars 35.8g
Protein 116.5g	0%

Vitamin D 219.2IU	0%
Calcium 2843.7mg	0%
Iron 12.7mg	0%
Potassium 2543.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 50.8%

Protein: 18.1%

Carbs: 31.1%