Craving a pasta experience that feels both indulgent and nourishing at the same time? I’ve been reaching for this Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce more times than I care to admit, and for good reason. There’s something about the way the silky strands of spaghetti capture that luscious, tangy cream sauce, flecked with vibrant bits of sun-dried tomatoes and nestled against tender spinach leaves, that makes every bite feel like a warm hug. This dish is perfect for lunch or dinner when you want something that’s straightforward enough for weeknight cooking but impressive enough to serve when friends drop by unannounced. With just a handful of ingredients and a total cooking time of around 20 minutes, it’s a go-to for busy home cooks who crave big flavor without the fuss.
Ever since I first whipped up this recipe, it’s become my personal comfort food, a vibrant twist on classic creamy pasta that feels both gourmet and familiar. The sun-dried tomatoes bring a deep, tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the rich, velvety heavy cream base, while the fresh spinach adds a pop of color and a hint of earthiness. Even at around 650 calories per serving, this plate feels light and satisfying, delivering on texture and taste. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or someone who loves experimenting with flavors, this recipe is designed to be approachable and endlessly adaptable. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into why these ingredients come together so beautifully—and how you can make this crowd-pleaser your new family favorite.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN SPAGHETTI & SPINACH WITH SUN-DRIED TOMATO CREAM SAUCE
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, contributing layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this pasta dish truly pop. From the foundational pasta to the finishing garnish, here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component matters.
- Spaghetti
The sturdy strands of spaghetti act as the perfect canvas for the creamy sauce, allowing every bite to be evenly coated. Opt for a good-quality semolina pasta to ensure an al dente texture that won’t turn mushy.
- Sun-dried tomatoes
These chewy, tangy beauties bring intense umami and sweetness, giving the sauce its signature depth. Chopped into bite-sized pieces, they disperse throughout the dish to burst with flavor in every forkful.
- Fresh spinach leaves
Bright green and tender, spinach adds a fresh, slightly earthy note and a nutritional boost. It wilts quickly when stirred into the hot sauce, creating a silky contrast against the pasta.
- Olive oil
A drizzle of fruity extra-virgin olive oil provides a smooth base for sautéing and helps carry the flavors of garlic and tomatoes. It also contributes heart-healthy fats.
- Garlic
Minced garlic infuses the oil and sauce with aromatic warmth. A quick sauté at the beginning ensures it releases its flavor without burning.
- Heavy cream
This is where the sauce gets its luxuriously smooth body. The cream thickens gently when reduced, yielding a velvety coating for the pasta.
- Parmesan cheese
Grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty tang and helps thicken the cream into a cohesive sauce. Stirring it in off the heat ensures it melts to a silky consistency.
- Dried basil
A sprinkle of dried basil introduces a subtle herbal lift, enhancing the Mediterranean flair of the dish without overpowering the sun-dried tomatoes.
- Salt and pepper
Essential seasonings that balance and elevate all the flavors. Freshly cracked pepper adds a mild heat, while salt intensifies the sauce’s richness.
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
For those who love a hint of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes delivers a gentle kick without overwhelming the other flavors.
- Vegetable or chicken broth
Adding broth at the simmering stage helps loosen the sauce, infusing it with savory undertones and allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Fresh parsley
Chopped parsley sprinkled on top brings a burst of color and a fresh, grassy finish that brightens each bite.
HOW TO MAKE SPAGHETTI & SPINACH WITH SUN-DRIED TOMATO CREAM SAUCE
Let’s walk through the simple steps to transform these ingredients into a creamy, tangy, and satisfying pasta dinner. This recipe is perfect for cooks at any level—each stage builds on the last to create a harmonious dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
1. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions.
Fill a large pot with salted water, bring it to a rolling boil, and add the spaghetti. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until al dente, then drain in a colander and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later if you need to adjust the sauce consistency.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Keep the garlic moving so it softens without browning, releasing its full aromatic profile into the oil.
3. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
This brief cooking time helps the tomatoes rehydrate slightly, intensifying their tangy sweetness and ensuring they meld with the oil.
4. Add the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a simmer, allowing it to reduce slightly.
Let the liquid bubble gently so it thickens just enough to concentrate the flavors without evaporating completely.
5. Lower the heat, add the heavy cream, and stir in the Parmesan cheese until well combined and smooth.
Keep the heat low to prevent the cream from curdling. Stir continuously to incorporate the cheese, creating a velvety sauce.
6. Season the sauce with dried basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Taste and adjust the seasonings so the sauce sings with a balanced blend of savory, herbal, and spicy notes.
7. Add the spinach leaves to the sauce and cook until they wilt.
Toss gently until the greens soften and turn a vivid green, preserving their delicate texture.
8. Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sun-dried tomato cream sauce until it’s well coated.
Use tongs or two forks to lift and turn the pasta, ensuring each strand is enveloped in sauce.
9. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
The sprinkling of parsley adds a fresh finish and a pop of color that makes this dish as beautiful as it is delicious.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR SPAGHETTI & SPINACH WITH SUN-DRIED TOMATO CREAM SAUCE
When it comes to serving this creamy tomato and spinach pasta, presentation and pairing can elevate an already delightful meal into something truly memorable. From balancing flavors with complementary sides to adding textural contrast, here are four ways to showcase your creation and impress anyone lucky enough to sit at your table.
- Garlic Bread on the Side
Slather classic French baguette slices with a mixture of softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Toast until golden brown and serve alongside the pasta for a perfect crunchy contrast and extra garlic punch.
- Simple Arugula or Mixed Greens Salad
Toss peppery arugula or baby greens with a light lemon vinaigrette (olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper) and shaved Parmesan. The fresh acidity cuts through the creaminess and adds a bright, refreshing bite.
- Protein Addition: Grilled Chicken or Shrimp
Season chicken breasts or shrimp with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper, then grill or pan-sear until just cooked. Slice and arrange on top of the pasta to turn a vegetarian dish into a heartier main course.
- Extra Parmesan and Cracked Pepper Finish
Offer a small bowl of freshly grated Parmesan and a pepper mill at the table so everyone can customize their serving. The extra cheese deepens the umami, while the freshly cracked pepper adds bold aroma and heat.
HOW TO STORE SPAGHETTI & SPINACH WITH SUN-DRIED TOMATO CREAM SAUCE
Leftovers of this luscious pasta can be just as satisfying as the freshly made version when stored properly. While cream-based sauces can be a bit more delicate in storage, following a few simple guidelines will help you maintain the dish’s creamy texture and vibrant flavors.
- Refrigerate in an Airtight Container
Transfer the cooled pasta to a sealed container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Chilling the dish quickly prevents bacterial growth and keeps flavors bright. When you’re ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s silkiness.
- Freeze in Portion-Sized Packs
If you want to save servings for later, portion the cooled pasta into freezer-safe bags or containers. Press out excess air and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in a pan with a little extra liquid to revive the sauce.
- Avoid Overheating
Cream sauces can separate if exposed to high heat. Always reheat slowly over low to medium heat, stirring often. Adding a small amount of broth or cream during reheating helps maintain a smooth texture.
- Separate Pasta and Sauce (Optional)
For the best texture when storing, consider keeping the pasta and sauce in separate containers. This prevents the pasta from soaking up too much sauce and becoming soggy. Combine and reheat them together just before serving.
CONCLUSION
This Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce has everything you could want in a weeknight pasta dish: creamy richness, tangy depth from sun-dried tomatoes, and bright pops of green from fresh spinach. It’s a beginner-friendly recipe that comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for both relaxed dinners at home and impromptu gatherings. The harmony between the smooth sauce and the tender pasta creates a dish that feels luxurious without requiring any complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Whether you choose to pair it with garlic bread, toss a light salad alongside, or add some grilled protein, this versatile pasta will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Be sure to note the prep time (10 minutes) and cooking time (20 minutes) to plan your kitchen rhythm, and don’t forget that each serving clocks in at around 650 calories—a satisfying yet balanced option for lunch or dinner.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later—you’ll find the handy FAQ section below to answer any lingering questions about ingredient swaps or reheating tips. If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Drop a comment, share your own twists, or let me know if you run into any bumps along the way. Your feedback helps me refine these recipes and continue sharing delicious, approachable dishes that bring people together around the table. Happy cooking!
Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Description
This spaghetti dish offers a delightful blend of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors, featuring fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
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Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
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Add the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a simmer, allowing it to reduce slightly.
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Lower the heat, add the heavy cream, and stir in the Parmesan cheese until well combined and smooth.
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Season the sauce with dried basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
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Add the spinach leaves to the sauce and cook until they wilt.
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Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sun-dried tomato cream sauce until it's well coated.
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Serve the pasta hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
Note
- Sun-dried tomatoes add a rich and tangy flavor; choose good quality for best results.
- For a lighter version, half-and-half can substitute heavy cream, but the sauce will be less creamy.
- Pair with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- To make it a bit more indulgent, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp.
