Get ready to fall in love with the rich, velvety goodness of spinach! In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delicious and satisfying main dish delights that showcase the star power of creamy spinach. From comforting pasta dishes to savory meatballs and quiches, these mouthwatering recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Whether you’re a spinach enthusiast or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, this collection has something for everyone. With ingredients ranging from classic pairings like mushroom and artichoke to more unexpected combinations like goat cheese and sun-dried tomatoes, there’s no shortage of flavor and excitement here. So grab your mixing bowls and let’s get started on this spinach-filled culinary journey!
Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this rich and flavorful stuffed chicken recipe, featuring sautéed mushrooms and spinach in a creamy sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic until tender. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
3. In a separate bowl, mix heavy cream and butter until smooth. Stir in cooked mushroom mixture and thyme.
4. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the creamy mushroom mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Spinach Pasta
A rich and flavorful pasta dish that combines the comfort of spinach with the savory goodness of garlic parmesan sauce. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, garlic-spinach mixture, and cream-Parmesan sauce in a large serving dish. Toss until well coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
This classic Italian-American dish is a comforting crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Fresh spinach and ricotta cheese add a rich and creamy twist to traditional stuffed shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg; mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a 9×13-inch baking dish; cover with 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 Feta Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
Elevate your dinner game with this impressive pork tenderloin stuffed with spinach, feta, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) pork tenderloin
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together spinach, feta, garlic, and thyme.
3. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
4. Lay the tenderloin flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket. Stuff the spinach-feta mixture inside.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the tenderloin and season again with salt and pepper.
6. Place the stuffed tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Lasagna
Elevate your lasagna game with this creamy, spinach-packed twist on the classic Italian dish. This recipe combines tender pasta layers with rich artichoke hearts, sautéed spinach, and a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion and garlic until softened. Add artichoke hearts and cook until heated through.
4. Combine cooked spinach, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble lasagna by spreading sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange 4 noodles, then spread half of the artichoke mixture, followed by half of the spinach mixture. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese.
6. Repeat layers and top with remaining mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spinach and Goat Cheese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
A flavorful and elegant vegetarian dish perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps cleaned
– 1 package fresh spinach, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, goat cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Wipe the mushroom caps with a damp cloth and fill each cap with the spinach mixture.
4. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
5. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo
This recipe combines the nutty goodness of orzo with the vibrant flavors of spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Combine the cooked orzo, sun-dried tomatoes, salt, and pepper in a large serving bowl.
6. Add the spinach mixture on top and toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Bacon Quiche
Spinach and Bacon Quiche Recipe
A classic quiche recipe with a twist, this spinach and bacon quiche is perfect for brunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the same skillet and cook until softened.
5. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and eggs. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Arrange the cooked bacon, spinach mixture, and grated cheese in the pie crust.
8. Pour the cream and egg mixture over the filling.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this creamy and flavorful twist! These Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Meatballs are perfect for parties, gatherings, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, spinach, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. 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 olive oil over the meatballs and gently roll them to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Spinach and Chickpea Curry
This flavorful and nutritious curry is a great way to add some plant-based goodness to your meal routine. With the natural sweetness of chickpeas and spinach, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or ghee for sautéing
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add chickpeas, coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in fresh spinach leaves. Let wilt into the curry, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve hot over rice, naan, or with some crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Sausage Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines sweet bell peppers with savory sausage and spinach for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
6. Stuff each pepper with the sausage and spinach mixture, filling to the top.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and top each pepper with shredded cheese (if using). Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spinach and Shrimp Alfredo
Get ready to elevate your pasta game with this rich and flavorful Spinach and Shrimp Alfredo recipe, featuring succulent shrimp, wilted spinach, and a velvety sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fettuccine
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.
5. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce by half, stirring occasionally.
6. Combine cooked fettuccine, shrimp-spinach mixture, and sauce. Toss, adding reserved pasta water if needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Caramelized Onion Tart
This savory tart combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the earthiness of spinach, perfect as a side dish or light lunch. Flaky pastry crust and melted cheese add a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 10 oz fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface.
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in spinach leaves; cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread onion-spinach mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Drizzle heavy cream over the filling, then sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with water) and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spinach and Gruyere Stuffed Chicken Breast
This recipe elevates a classic chicken breast to new heights with the creamy, nutty flavors of spinach and Gruyère cheese. It’s an impressive main course for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together spinach, Gruyère, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-Gruyère mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Lentil Stew
Spinach and Lentil Stew Recipe
Summary: A hearty and nutritious stew that combines the flavors of spinach, lentils, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the lentils, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Pour in the water or broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
4. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Spinach and Pesto Stuffed Salmon
This recipe combines the flavors of fresh spinach and creamy pesto with succulent salmon, creating a delicious and healthy main course. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, mix together spinach leaves and pesto.
4. Place one-quarter of the spinach-pesto mixture on each salmon fillet, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the filling and season with salt and pepper.
6. Fold the salmon edges over the filling to form a seal.
7. Place the stuffed salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Spinach and Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Enjoy a delicious and nutritious twist on traditional gnocchi with this recipe that combines the earthy flavors of spinach and sweet potato.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup semolina flour
– 1 egg
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, spinach, and flours.
2. Mix well until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces and roll each piece into a long rope.
5. Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces to form the gnocchi.
6. Cook the gnocchi in a large pot of boiling, salted water for 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface.
7. Remove from heat and serve with your favorite sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and White Bean Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, with the sweetness of white beans, the earthiness of spinach, and a hint of cream. Serve as a starter or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Drain and add the soaked navy beans, vegetable broth, and spinach leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the beans are tender.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches, returning it to the pot.
6. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Corn Quesadillas
A flavorful twist on traditional quesadillas, these Spinach and Corn Quesadillas are perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. Fresh spinach and sweet corn add natural sweetness to the crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, combine spinach, corn, and cheese.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle one-quarter of the spinach-corn mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spinach and Blue Cheese Stuffed Steak Rolls
Elevate your steak game with this flavorful and impressive dish, featuring tender beef rolls stuffed with a savory blend of spinach and blue cheese. Perfect for a special occasion or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4 top sirloin steaks (6 oz each)
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, blue cheese, and garlic.
3. Lay each steak flat and place about 1/4 cup of the spinach-blue cheese mixture along the center of each steak.
4. Roll each steak tightly and secure with toothpicks if needed.
5. Place the rolls seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until steaks reach desired doneness.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the creamy goodness of spinach with these mouth-watering main dish recipes! From classic pasta dishes to savory stuffed meats and veggies, there’s something for everyone. Discover creamy spinach and mushroom-stuffed chicken, garlic parmesan spinach pasta, and more. These innovative recipes showcase the versatility of spinach as a key ingredient. With flavors ranging from rich and cheesy to tangy and herby, you’ll find yourself craving each dish. Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these 20 creative and delicious creamy spinach main dishes!
