Save This creamy spaghetti with spinach and sun-dried tomato cream sauce is my go-to recipe on nights when I crave something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of silky noodles, rich sauce, and bursts of savory tomatoes makes this pasta a showstopper for family dinners or a cozy meal for two.
I discovered this when I was craving restaurant-style pasta but wanted something I could whip up at home After the first time everyone at the table was instantly hooked and now it is in heavy rotation on our meal plan
Ingredients
- Spaghetti: dried pasta is perfect for soaking up all the creamy sauce Choose a high-quality brand for best texture
- Olive oil: for sautéing use extra virgin for richer flavor
- Garlic: minced fresh for aromatic depth Look for firm cloves with no sprouts
- Sun-dried tomatoes: jarred in oil offer robust tang and sweetness Drain well before chopping
- Fresh spinach: packed with nutrients and bright color Grab crisp leaves without any wilting
- Heavy cream: creates a velvety base for the sauce Always go for full-fat cream for maximum richness
- Grated Parmesan cheese: adds salty nutty layers to the sauce Choose Parmigiano-Reggiano for quality
- Salt and pepper: classic seasoning adjust to taste using freshly cracked black pepper
- Crushed red pepper flakes: a little heat if you like things spicy Totally optional but highly recommended for contrast
Instructions
- Prepare the Spaghetti:
- Fill a large pot with water bring to a boil add a handful of salt and cook the spaghetti until al dente Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and check the texture after about eight to ten minutes so the noodles remain firm yet tender Drain in a colander and set aside reserving half a cup of pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later
- Sauté the Garlic:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add the minced garlic and let it gently bubble for one minute Stir constantly so it does not burn You are looking for pale golden bits and a kitchen filled with a warm garlicky aroma
- Wilt the Spinach and Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet stirring for another minute to infuse the oil with their flavor Toss in the fresh spinach leaves letting them cook down until soft and dark green This usually takes two to three minutes Keep turning the leaves gently so they cook evenly
- Build the Creamy Sauce:
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer Lower the heat to medium-low and gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese Stir as it melts the sauce thickens and becomes silky smooth If the sauce gets too thick add a splash of the reserved pasta water This transforms the sauce into a rich creamy base that coats every strand
- Finish and Season:
- Tip the cooked spaghetti into the sauce tossing everything together with tongs until the noodles are glossy and fully coated Season with salt black pepper and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if desired Taste and adjust seasoning until everything is perfectly balanced
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Twirl generous portions into bowls Top with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like Serve hot while the sauce is at its creamiest and the colors pop on the plate
Save Sun-dried tomatoes are hands-down my favorite part of this recipe Their tangy chew boosts both taste and visual appeal My kids love helping me toss the spaghetti and sprinkle on the Parmesan turning dinner into a fun family affair each and every time
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for two to three days Store in an airtight container and add a splash of cream or milk when reheating to keep things creamy Use the microwave or stovetop on low for best texture
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of heavy cream try half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free version Swap fresh spinach with arugula or kale for a peppery or earthy twist If you only have dried sun-dried tomatoes instead of oil-packed be sure to soak them in hot water first
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta alongside garlic bread for extra indulgence or with a crisp green salad for balance It pairs nicely with roasted chicken or grilled mushrooms for added protein A light sprinkle of lemon zest on top brightens every bite
Cultural and Seasonal Context
Sun-dried tomatoes and olive oil are Mediterranean ingredients that give this dish its unmistakable flair In summer I love using baby spinach picked fresh from the farmers market During colder months hearty pasta dishes like this bring comfort and warmth to the dinner table
Seasonal Adaptations
Add sautéed zucchini or roasted cherry tomatoes in summer for a fresh twist Use kale or chard instead of spinach during winter months For spring try tossing in green peas or asparagus for extra greens
Success Stories
Many friends have called to say this pasta is now their weeknight staple A neighbor once swapped the cream for extra Parmesan and a splash of pasta water and it was still silky perfection Every time I make this for guests someone always asks for the recipe
Freezer Meal Conversion
Though best enjoyed fresh you can freeze the sauce on its own in a lidded container for up to one month Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta
Save This pasta is bright creamy and sure to become a comforting favorite in your kitchen Enjoy every twirl and do not forget the extra sprinkle of Parmesan
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, linguine, fettuccine, or penne work well if you don't have spaghetti on hand.
- → What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk will create a lighter sauce with a slightly less rich texture.
- → How do I make this dish vegetarian?
This dish is already vegetarian as long as you use Parmesan cheese made without animal rennet.
- → Can I add protein to this meal?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make great additions for extra protein and heartiness.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.