Name: Spaghetti and Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3–4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed preferred); 3 cups fresh spinach (baby spinach recommended); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Reserved pasta water (as needed)

Creamy, comforting, and packed with vibrant flavors—Spaghetti and Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a dish that truly brings joy to the table. Each forkful is coated with a rich, velvety sauce bursting with the tang of sun-dried tomatoes, balanced perfectly by the fresh, earthy notes of wilted spinach. This pasta recipe transforms simple ingredients into an indulgent yet effortless meal, making it ideal for both cozy nights at home and casual dinner parties with friends.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility and ease. You don’t need hours in the kitchen to create something truly special. In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a plate of creamy, cheesy goodness that tastes like it came straight from your favorite Italian bistro. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this pasta promises to deliver comfort and flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti and Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Quick & Easy: Minimal prep and ready in under 30 minutes.
Flavor-Packed: The sun-dried tomatoes add a delightful tang and depth to the creamy sauce.
Comforting & Satisfying: Rich, creamy, and perfect for a cozy meal.
Versatile: Great as a main dish or served alongside a protein.
Vegetarian-Friendly: A wonderful meatless option that even meat-lovers will enjoy.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s helpful to gather all your tools and prep your ingredients to ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience. Having everything ready will allow you to focus on creating that luscious cream sauce without missing a beat.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large Pot: For boiling the spaghetti to a perfect al dente texture.
Deep Skillet or Sauté Pan: A wide, deep pan is ideal for preparing the cream sauce and tossing the pasta with the sauce.
Colander: To drain the cooked spaghetti.
Chef’s Knife: For chopping spinach and sun-dried tomatoes if needed.
Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for prep work.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring the sauce and pasta.
Tongs: Perfect for tossing the pasta with the sauce for even coating.

Importance of Each Tool

The large pot ensures the spaghetti cooks evenly without sticking.
The deep skillet gives enough room to make the sauce and combine it with pasta, preventing spills.
The colander helps quickly drain pasta without overcooking.
A sharp knife and cutting board make prep work efficient and safe.
Wooden spoons or spatulas protect your pan’s surface and allow you to stir thoroughly.
Tongs offer control when mixing the pasta with the sauce for an even, luscious coating.

Preparation Tips

Use good-quality sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for maximum flavor. Drain excess oil before chopping.
Fresh spinach wilts quickly and blends beautifully with the creamy sauce. Baby spinach works best, but regular spinach roughly chopped is great too.
Cook pasta just shy of al dente, as it will finish cooking in the sauce, absorbing the delicious flavors.
Reserve some pasta water before draining. Adding a splash to the sauce can help achieve the perfect consistency.
Grate Parmesan cheese fresh for the best creamy, melty texture.

Ingredients for Spaghetti and Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Creating this delicious dish doesn’t require a long list of ingredients—just a few staples that come together beautifully:

8 oz (225 g) spaghetti
Choose your favorite brand or opt for whole wheat or gluten-free if desired.
2 tbsp olive oil
For sautéing and enhancing the sauce’s richness.
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
Provides a fragrant and flavorful base.
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Use oil-packed for the best texture and flavor; pat dry before chopping.
3 cups fresh spinach (baby spinach preferred)
Adds a fresh, vibrant element to the creamy sauce.
1 cup heavy cream
Creates the luscious, velvety texture of the sauce.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Brings salty, nutty depth to the dish—grate fresh for best results.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Essential for balancing flavors.
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Adds a subtle kick if you like a bit of heat.
Reserved pasta water (as needed)
Helps thin the sauce and make it cling perfectly to the pasta.

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until just shy of al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

In a large deep skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for another 1–2 minutes to release their flavors.

Step 3: Add the Spinach

Toss the fresh spinach into the pan. Stir and cook for 1–2 minutes, just until wilted. The spinach will shrink significantly, so don’t be alarmed by the initial volume.

Step 4: Create the Cream Sauce

Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine, allowing the cream to gently simmer and thicken for about 3–4 minutes. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Using tongs, toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked pepper if desired. Pair with a slice of crusty bread and enjoy your comforting bowl of creamy, flavorful goodness!

Notes

Pasta Options: While spaghetti works beautifully in this dish, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like fettuccine, linguine, or penne. Short pasta can hold the creamy sauce well too.
Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is highly recommended for the best texture and flavor. Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
Spinach Substitute: You can substitute kale, Swiss chard, or even arugula if you prefer a different leafy green.
Protein Additions: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy pancetta.
Sauce Thickness: Adjust the sauce consistency to your liking with reserved pasta water. The starchy water helps the sauce cling perfectly to the pasta.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Pasta: Be sure to cook your spaghetti just shy of al dente since it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the hot sauce.
Burning the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, turning bitter. Sauté gently on medium heat and watch it closely.
Skipping the Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve pasta water! It’s a key ingredient for creating a silky, cohesive sauce.
Adding Cheese Too Quickly: Gradually stir in the Parmesan to ensure it melts smoothly into the sauce without clumping.
Over-thickening the Sauce: If your sauce becomes too thick, loosen it up with a bit more pasta water or a splash of cream.

What to Serve With Spaghetti and Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce?

A creamy pasta like this one pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes and accompaniments. Whether you want to keep the meal light or make it a more indulgent feast, here are some delicious ideas:

8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Bread

A classic pairing. The crisp, buttery garlic bread is perfect for sopping up every bit of that luscious cream sauce.

2. Simple Green Salad

A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta and adds freshness to your meal.

3. Grilled Chicken

Adding sliced grilled chicken on the side or on top of the pasta makes for a heartier, protein-packed dish.

4. Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy mushrooms sautéed in butter and garlic complement the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach beautifully.

5. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers add vibrant colors and textures to the meal.

6. Shrimp Scampi

For a luxurious seafood pairing, garlic butter shrimp served alongside or mixed in adds elegance.

7. Caprese Salad

Tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.

8. Crisp White Wine

A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the flavors of the dish and provides a crisp finish.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store any leftover spaghetti and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3–4 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce as it may thicken when chilled.
Freezing: Due to the creamy nature of the sauce, freezing is not recommended as the texture may become grainy when thawed.
Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it separately. When ready to serve, cook fresh pasta and combine it with the warmed sauce for the best flavor and texture.

Estimated Nutrition

Note: Values are approximate and may vary depending on specific brands and portion sizes.

Per Serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: ~480 kcal
Protein: ~14 g
Carbohydrates: ~52 g
Fat: ~24 g
Saturated Fat: ~12 g
Cholesterol: ~60 mg
Fiber: ~4 g
Sugar: ~6 g
Sodium: ~400 mg

This dish offers a comforting balance of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and leafy greens, making it a well-rounded meal for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute whole milk, but the sauce will be lighter and less creamy. For a richer texture, you could use half-and-half or add a small amount of cream cheese.

2. Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Use a plant-based cream (such as cashew cream or coconut cream) and vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast. Make sure your pasta is also egg-free.

3. Can I use frozen spinach?

You can, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess water to prevent the sauce from becoming watery.

4. How can I add protein to this dish?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas are excellent additions that pair well with the flavors of this pasta.

5. Is it okay to use sun-dried tomatoes not packed in oil?

Yes, but you should rehydrate them in hot water for about 10 minutes before using so they’re tender and flavorful.

6. What pasta shapes work well with this sauce?

Besides spaghetti, you can use fettuccine, linguine, penne, rigatoni, or even farfalle. The sauce clings well to both long and short pasta shapes.

7. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The sauce can be made a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta.

8. Is this dish spicy?

It’s not inherently spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes to taste for a subtle kick.

Conclusion

Spaghetti and Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a delicious, versatile pasta dish that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat. With its creamy, tangy, and savory flavors, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or even date nights. Whether you enjoy it as is or customize it with your favorite add-ins, this pasta is sure to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen.