Crisp, bright, and utterly satisfying, this Creamy Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti is a symphony of textures and tastes. The al dente spaghetti provides a perfect base for the velvety cream sauce, punctuated by the chewy intensity of sun-dried tomatoes and the fresh, slightly earthy notes of spinach. The dish works because the acidity of the tomatoes balances the richness of the cream, creating a deeply flavorful and surprisingly light pasta dish.

This elegant and easy-to-prepare pasta is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home.

Why you’ll love this Creamy Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti with Creamy Spinach Spaghetti

Ready in just 35 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
The creamy sauce is incredibly flavorful, infusing every strand of spaghetti with deliciousness.
A vegetarian delight that’s both satisfying and elegant.
Requires minimal ingredients, many of which you may already have on hand.
Easy to customize with additional protein or spices to suit your taste.
This creamy spinach spaghetti is a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both kids and adults.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredients for Creamy Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti

1 pound spaghetti
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
5 ounces fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat

Creamy spinach spaghetti makes every moment feel lush. For a dairy-free option, try using cashew cream or coconut cream instead of heavy cream. If you don’t have fresh spinach, frozen spinach (thawed and squeezed dry) can be used as a substitute. For a deeper, nuttier flavor, toasted pine nuts can be added as a garnish. Craving more spice? Explore cozy Mexican street flavors sometime with white chicken chili.

How to make Creamy Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining. This pasta water will be crucial for adjusting the consistency of your sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

While the spaghetti is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing their flavors to meld with the garlic-infused oil.

Step 3: Wilt the Spinach

Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes. If the skillet seems dry, add a splash of olive oil or pasta water. Chef’s Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you have a lot of spinach, add it in batches to ensure it wilts evenly.

Step 4: Create the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce thicken slightly, about 5 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat thoroughly with the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired.

Tips for Success

Don’t overcook the spaghetti! Al dente pasta holds its shape and texture better when tossed with the sauce.
Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will make the sauce taste bitter.
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Sun-dried tomatoes can be quite salty, so you may need less salt than you think.
Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomato Spaghetti is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a simple side salad and crusty bread. For a more substantial meal, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp. A glass of crisp white grape juice or sparkling water complements the dish perfectly. Why not try chicken tzatziki bowls recipe too for more delicious meal ideas?

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. The sauce may thicken upon refrigeration, so adding a bit of liquid is key to restoring its creamy consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze this pasta dish?

While you *can* freeze this dish, the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing. If you do freeze it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Is this recipe spicy?

This recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is the classic choice, you can use other pasta shapes such as fettuccine, linguine, or penne. The cooking time may vary depending on the type of pasta you choose.

This recipe for creamy spinach spaghetti delivers a delightful combination of rich, savory, and fresh flavors in a simple and satisfying dish. The ease of preparation and the delicious result make it a go-to meal for any occasion. We would love to hear your variations and experiences in the comments below!

Creamy Spinach Spaghetti Easy Creamy Spinach & Sun-dried Tomato Spaghetti Recipe