Gouda Penne with Spinach

Creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor, Gouda Penne with Spinach is a quick and satisfying pasta dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This recipe features tender penne pasta coated in a velvety gouda cheese sauce, made with a simple roux of butter, flour, and milk for an irresistibly smooth texture. Fresh, wilted baby spinach adds a vibrant burst of color and nutrients, while garlic sautéed in olive oil enhances the dish with its aromatic touch. Optional red pepper flakes provide a gentle kick of heat, while a sprinkle of parmesan offers a savory finishing touch. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this easy gouda pasta recipe is a crowd-pleaser that you'll want to make again and again. Perfect for cheese lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike!

Nutriscore Rating: 63/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1.5 cups shredded gouda cheese
• 4 cups baby spinach
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper
• 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 0.25 cup parmesan cheese, grated (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, drain the pasta, and set it aside.

Step 2

In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux.

Step 3

Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture begins to thicken slightly.

Step 4

Add the shredded gouda cheese to the milk mixture. Whisk until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and black pepper.

Step 5

In a separate large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until wilted.

Step 6

Combine the cooked pasta and sautéed spinach in the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.

Step 7

Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. If using, sprinkle red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Step 8

Serve warm, garnished with grated parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1257.4 grams (1257.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2835

Total Fat 128.00g	164%
Saturated Fat 68.20g	341%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.90g
Cholesterol 349mg	116%
Sodium 3846mg	167%
Total Carbohydrate 299.60g	109%
Dietary Fiber 16.10g	58%
Total Sugars 23.50g
Protein 131.40g	263%

Vitamin D 239IU	1193%
Calcium 2679mg	206%
Iron 17mg	95%
Potassium 1515mg	32%

*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: 40.1%

Protein: 18.3%

Carbs: 41.7%