Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

If you’re looking for a pasta dish that’s rich in flavor but easy to make, Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is the perfect choice. This creamy, savory dish combines the hearty goodness of spaghetti with fresh spinach, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and a velvety cream sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner that will satisfy your pasta cravings without requiring hours in the kitchen.

The sun-dried tomatoes give the sauce a deep, slightly tangy flavor, while the spinach adds a pop of color and a touch of earthiness. The creamy sauce, enriched with Parmesan cheese, binds the ingredients together in a luxurious, satisfying way. With just a few simple ingredients, this dish manages to be both comforting and sophisticated, making it a crowd-pleaser for both family meals and special occasions. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite additions, making it a versatile recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a well-balanced dish that combines the best of both worlds—creamy indulgence and fresh, vibrant flavors. The sun-dried tomatoes provide a burst of umami, while the spinach adds a healthy touch, creating a perfect contrast to the rich cream sauce. The spaghetti serves as the ideal base, absorbing the sauce while providing a satisfying texture.

The best part about this recipe is how easy and quick it is to prepare. In just 25 minutes, you can have a comforting and flavorful pasta dish ready to serve. It’s a one-pan meal (apart from the pot for pasta), so cleanup is a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a group, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients

• Spaghetti
• Fresh spinach
• Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Garlic (minced)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Variations

Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is an incredibly versatile recipe that can be easily modified to suit your tastes or dietary preferences.

Add Protein

For a heartier meal, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even Italian sausage. These proteins pair wonderfully with the creamy sauce and will turn this dish into a complete meal.

Use Different Greens

If you don’t have spinach on hand, you can swap it out for other leafy greens like kale, arugula, or even Swiss chard. Each green will bring its own unique flavor to the dish.

Make It Vegan

To make this recipe vegan, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The sun-dried tomatoes and garlic will still provide plenty of flavor.

Add Fresh Herbs

Fresh basil or thyme can be added at the end for an aromatic burst of flavor. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top can also bring a fresh touch to the dish.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.

Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Sauté the Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Add the fresh spinach and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce is heated through and the cheese has melted into the cream, forming a smooth sauce.

Step 5: Combine the Spaghetti

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss the pasta to ensure it’s well coated in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the pasta hot, and enjoy the creamy, flavorful combination of spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Fresh Sun-Dried Tomatoes: If possible, use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, as they are more flavorful and tender than those packed in dry form. If using dried tomatoes, soak them in hot water for 10 minutes to soften.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: For the best texture, cook the spaghetti until it’s al dente, as it will continue cooking when added to the sauce.
• Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta cooking water to loosen it up. The starchy water helps the sauce cling to the noodles.
• Grate Your Own Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan has more flavor and melts better into the sauce than pre-grated versions.
• Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper to the skillet with the garlic.

How to Serve

Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce can be served as a stand-alone dish or paired with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. The richness of the creamy sauce balances perfectly with the freshness of a crisp salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or balsamic dressing.

For a special touch, garnish the pasta with extra Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving. A few fresh basil leaves can also enhance the flavor and add a touch of color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the cream sauce doesn’t freeze well. If you must freeze it, store the pasta and sauce separately, but be aware the texture may change upon thawing.

Reheating

To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat and stir in a little extra cream or milk. You can also reheat it in the microwave, though stirring halfway through is recommended for even heating.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to swap out the spaghetti for other pasta shapes such as fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni. Each will work well with the creamy sauce.

2. Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the pan to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.

3. Can I add meat to this dish?

Yes, grilled chicken, sausage, or even bacon can be added for a heartier meal. Simply cook the protein separately and add it to the pasta at the end.

4. Can I make this dish without Parmesan cheese?

You can make this dish without Parmesan cheese, though the sauce will lose some of its richness and depth. Consider using a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a vegan version.

5. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne, or fresh chopped chili peppers when sautéing the garlic and spinach.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free spaghetti or another gluten-free pasta alternative.

7. Can I use a different cream for this sauce?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream such as coconut cream if you prefer. Just keep in mind the flavor and texture may change slightly.

8. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

While the sauce can be made ahead, it’s best to toss the pasta with the sauce just before serving to ensure the pasta stays perfectly coated.

9. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

To prevent the cream from curdling, make sure to cook the sauce over medium heat and avoid boiling it once the cream is added. Stir the sauce gently and frequently.

10. Can I use sun-dried tomatoes in oil?

Yes, sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil are ideal for this recipe, as they add more flavor and moisture to the sauce compared to dried ones.

Conclusion

Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a delightful dish that’s both quick and easy to prepare, yet rich in flavor and texture. The creamy sauce, combined with the earthy spinach and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, creates a deliciously satisfying pasta meal that can be enjoyed any time. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Best of all, it’s versatile, so feel free to adjust the ingredients and add your own twist to suit your tastes.

Print