Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce – Easy & Flavorful

There is something undeniably comforting about a bowl of creamy pasta. The rich, velvety texture of the sauce coating each strand of spaghetti, the burst of flavor from sun-dried tomatoes, and the fresh vibrance of spinach make this dish a delightful combination of taste and texture. If you’re looking for a meal that is both indulgent and packed with wholesome ingredients, this Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is exactly what you need.

One of the things I love most about this dish is its perfect balance of flavors. The sun-dried tomatoes bring a slightly tangy and sweet contrast, the spinach adds a fresh earthiness, and the creamy Parmesan sauce ties everything together beautifully. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or even a cozy weekend meal with family and friends.

The beauty of this Spaghetti & spinach recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels like something you’d order at a fancy restaurant but is actually quick and fuss-free. It’s also highly adaptable—want to add some protein? Toss in grilled chicken or shrimp. Looking for a spicy kick? A pinch of red pepper flakes will do the trick.

If you’re craving a pasta dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, this Spaghetti & spinach recipe is going to be a favorite in your household. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just need a quick and delicious dinner after a long day, this Spaghetti & spinach and sun-dried tomato cream sauce is guaranteed to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti & spinach Recipe

This dish isn’t just about flavor—it’s about ease, versatility, and pure comfort. Here are a few reasons why you’ll absolutely love it:

1. Rich & Creamy Without Being Heavy

The sauce is luxuriously creamy, thanks to the combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. However, the fresh spinach and tangy sun-dried tomatoes prevent it from feeling too heavy, making each bite light yet indulgent.

2. Quick & Easy to Make

You can have this dish on the table in just 30 minutes. With minimal prep work and simple steps, it’s a great choice for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

3. Packed with Flavor

The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes creates an explosion of flavor. The umami-rich tomatoes bring a deep, slightly sweet tang, while the cheese adds that unmistakable salty richness.

4. Nutritious & Wholesome

This pasta isn’t just delicious—it also packs a nutritional punch. Spinach is loaded with vitamins and minerals, and the healthy fats from olive oil and sun-dried tomatoes provide added benefits.

5. Customizable to Your Preferences

This dish is easy to modify based on what you have in your kitchen. You can:

• Add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or turkey sausage.
• Make it spicy with red pepper flakes.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.

Health Benefits

This pasta dish may feel indulgent, but it also comes with a variety of health benefits thanks to its nutritious ingredients.

1. Spinach: A Nutrient Powerhouse

Spinach is packed with iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K. It supports bone health, improves immune function, and provides antioxidants that help fight inflammation.

2. Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Loaded with Antioxidants

Sun-dried tomatoes contain lycopene, an antioxidant known for its role in reducing the risk of certain diseases. They also provide vitamins C and K and are a great source of fiber.

3. Healthy Fats from Olive Oil

Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which promote heart health and help reduce inflammation in the body.

4. Protein from Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan cheese is not only a flavor booster but also a great source of protein and calcium. It supports muscle growth and strengthens bones.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Time:

• Preparation: 10 minutes
• Cooking: 20 minutes
• Total: 30 minutes

Servings:

• Serves 4 people

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 4g

Ingredients List

The Pasta:

• 12 oz spaghetti (or your preferred pasta)
• Salt, for boiling water

The Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, following the package instructions.
• Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

Sauté the Garlic

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
• Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.

Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Spinach

• Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
• Add the fresh spinach and stir until it wilts.

Make the Cream Sauce

• Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream.
• Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Slowly add grated Parmesan, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Combine Everything

• Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss well.
• If needed, add some reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
• Season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes.

Serve & Enjoy

• Plate the pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan if desired.
• Serve immediately while warm.

How to Serve

• With Garlic Bread: The perfect way to mop up that delicious creamy sauce.
• With a Side Salad: A light arugula salad balances the richness of the dish.
• With Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: Adds protein and makes it even heartier.

Pairing Suggestions

• Fresh Lemonade: Balances the richness of the dish.
• Iced Tea with Mint: A refreshing complement to the creamy pasta.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 1 month.
• Reheat: Warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce, a few common mistakes can impact the final dish. Avoiding these pitfalls will ensure a smooth, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta.

One of the biggest mistakes is overcooking the pasta. Spaghetti should be cooked al dente, meaning it still has a slight bite to it. Overcooked pasta turns mushy and doesn’t hold up well when tossed in the sauce. To prevent this, follow the cooking instructions on the package and taste-test a minute before the suggested time.

Another issue is not reserving pasta water. The starchy water helps create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta, giving it the perfect consistency. Without it, the sauce may turn too thick or separate. Save about ½ cup of pasta water before draining and add it gradually as needed.

Using too much or too little cheese can also affect the dish. Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami flavor, but adding it too early can cause it to clump. Always stir it in after lowering the heat to prevent it from turning grainy. Similarly, not using enough cheese may result in a bland sauce.

Rushing the sauce-making process is another common mistake. When adding cream, it’s important to keep the heat low to medium to prevent curdling. Stir continuously, allowing the flavors to meld together. High heat can cause the dairy to separate, leading to an uneven texture.

Skipping the seasoning adjustments can also result in a lackluster dish. The right balance of salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes enhances the overall flavor. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.

Lastly, not serving the dish immediately can impact texture. Cream sauces thicken as they sit, so it’s best to enjoy the pasta fresh off the stove. If you need to reheat it, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the consistency.

Pro Tips

Creating a restaurant-quality Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is all about technique and small adjustments that make a big difference. Here are some expert tips to elevate your dish.

First, season your pasta water well. The water should taste salty like the sea. This simple step ensures the spaghetti absorbs some seasoning while cooking, which enhances the overall taste of the dish.

For the best flavor, use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes. They have a richer, deeper taste compared to the dry-packed version. If you’re using dry sun-dried tomatoes, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the sauce.

When sautéing the garlic, keep the heat at medium-low to prevent burning. Burnt garlic turns bitter and can overpower the sauce. Cook just until fragrant, about 30 to 60 seconds.

To make the sauce extra creamy and smooth, add Parmesan cheese off the heat. This prevents clumping and ensures it melts evenly. Stir continuously to blend it into the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired consistency.

Want an even richer flavor? Use a mix of cheeses. Combining Parmesan and Pecorino Romano gives a more complex taste. Pecorino adds a sharper, slightly nutty edge.

If you love spice, add red pepper flakes early in the cooking process. This allows the heat to infuse into the oil, creating a deeper, more balanced spice level rather than a sharp, overpowering bite at the end.

For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or shrimp. If adding shrimp, cook them separately and stir them in at the last minute to keep them juicy and tender.

Lastly, for a more gourmet touch, finish the dish with fresh herbs. Chopped basil or parsley adds brightness and balances the richness of the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While spaghetti works beautifully, you can substitute fettuccine, linguine, penne, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Short pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli also work well since they hold onto the creamy sauce.

How do I make this dish lighter?

For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk. You can also use Greek yogurt for a protein-rich alternative. Just make sure to stir it in over low heat to prevent curdling.

Can I make this Spaghetti & spinach recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. For the cheese, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free Parmesan substitute. The result will still be creamy and flavorful.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken as it sits, so add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to restore the creamy consistency.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s best to freeze the sauce separately rather than the pasta. Freeze the cooled sauce in an airtight container for up to 1 month. When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on low heat, stirring in fresh pasta.

How do I reheat the pasta without drying it out?

Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk, cream, or pasta water. Stir gently until warmed through. Avoid using high heat, which can cause the sauce to separate.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Try adding mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini. Sauté them along with the garlic for added texture and flavor.

Is this dish gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. The sauce itself is naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a simple yet elegant meal that delivers rich, creamy, and tangy flavors in every bite. With just 30 minutes of cooking time, you can have a delicious pasta dish that feels gourmet but is easy enough for any night of the week.

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian meal, a protein-packed dinner with grilled chicken, or a dairy-free option, this pasta can be easily customized to fit your dietary needs. The balance of flavors—garlicky spinach, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy Parmesan sauce—creates a dish that is comforting yet fresh.

Now it’s your turn to try it! Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a homemade, restaurant-quality pasta in no time. Don’t forget to save this recipe for later and share it with your friends and family.

I’d love to hear how your dish turns out! If you make this recipe, let me know in the comments or tag me on social media with your delicious creation. Your feedback helps others and inspires more amazing recipes.

If you’re looking for more quick and easy pasta recipes, be sure to check out my other recipes. From creamy Alfredo to spicy tomato-based sauces, there’s something for everyone.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your favorite pasta, whip up this creamy spinach and sun-dried tomato sauce, and enjoy a satisfying meal that’s bound to become a favorite!

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