If you love the flavors of the classic Greek spinach pie, spanakopita, but want something a little more comforting and weeknight-friendly, then Spanakopita Pasta is your new favorite recipe. Imagine tender pasta tossed in a creamy, garlicky sauce with plenty of spinach, fresh herbs, and tangy feta cheese — all the flavors you love from spanakopita, reimagined in a hearty and satisfying pasta dish.
It’s an easy way to bring Greek-inspired flair to your table without having to fuss with phyllo dough. Best of all, it can be ready in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.
What Is Spanakopita?
Spanakopita is a traditional Greek savory pie made with flaky layers of phyllo pastry filled with spinach, feta cheese, onions, and fresh herbs like dill and parsley. It’s famous for its crispy golden crust and creamy, herby filling.
Spanakopita Pasta takes all those elements — spinach, feta, garlic, onion, herbs — and brings them together in a rich pasta dish that delivers the same flavor profile in a totally different, but equally comforting, form.
Why You’ll Love Spanakopita Pasta
- Fast & Easy: Much quicker than layering phyllo dough and baking.
- Comfort Food Upgrade: Creamy pasta with the fresh, tangy bite of feta and herbs.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: A hearty main dish without any meat.
- Customizable: Add protein, swap pasta shapes, or make it creamy with Greek yogurt.
Ingredients
For 4 servings:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 oz fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed and squeezed dry)
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup ricotta cheese or cream cheese (optional for creaminess)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup pasta water (reserved from cooking)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Lemon zest and juice of ½ lemon (for brightness)
- Extra olive oil or butter, for finishing
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Spinach and Herbs
Add spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted (or warmed through if using frozen). Stir in parsley, dill, and oregano. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Lower the heat slightly. Add ricotta or cream cheese (if using) and half of the reserved pasta water. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Pasta
Stir in crumbled feta and Parmesan until melted into the sauce. Add drained pasta directly to the skillet and toss to coat. Add more pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Step 6: Finish with Lemon
Add lemon zest and a squeeze of juice for brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning. Drizzle with a touch of olive oil or melted butter before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or warm pita to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Pair with a crisp Greek salad for a refreshing side.
- Add a protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it heartier.
Tips & Variations
- Greek Yogurt Twist: For extra tang, stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt just before serving.
- Baked Version: Transfer the pasta to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and more feta, and broil until golden for a “baked spanakopita pasta.”
- Nutty Addition: Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch.
- Cheese Lovers: Swap feta with goat cheese or add extra Parmesan for richness.
Final Thoughts
Spanakopita Pasta is the perfect dish when you’re craving Greek flavors but don’t have the time or energy to make traditional spanakopita. Creamy, cheesy, and herb-packed, it’s comfort food with a Mediterranean twist. Whether you serve it as a quick weeknight dinner or as part of a family-style meal, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.