If you’re searching for a weeknight dinner that feels a little bit fancy but doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen, let me introduce you to Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce. This vibrant, creamy pasta bursts with the deep flavor of sun-dried tomatoes, the sweetness of sautéed garlic, and the freshness of wilted spinach — all wrapped up in a luxurious Parmesan cream. It’s the kind of dish that turns a simple night at home into something truly special, perfect for sharing with family or savoring solo with a glass of wine.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients to whip up Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce, and each one really pulls its weight. Every element adds its own magic — from the tangy richness of sun-dried tomatoes to the silky decadence of cream and spinach’s burst of color.
- Spaghetti: The classic base for soaking up that luscious cream sauce; feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.
- Olive oil: Used for sautéing the garlic and tomatoes, it lends smooth, fruity flavor that sets the tone for the sauce.
- Garlic: Just a few cloves add incredible depth and aroma — don’t skip it!
- Sun-dried tomatoes in oil: Drained and chopped, these jewels give tang, chewiness, and a pop of intense tomato flavor; the oil-packed kind is key for richness.
- Heavy cream: For true creaminess; you can swap in half-and-half or a non-dairy option, but the decadence of real cream makes this dish shine.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds umami and salty notes; grating it fresh really lifts the whole dish.
- Italian seasoning: This blend keeps things simple with layers of classic herbs — oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Just a pinch brings welcome heat and a little personality to the sauce.
- Fresh spinach: Wilts into the pasta, providing pops of green and gentle earthiness for balance.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to make all the ingredients sing.
- Fresh basil or extra Parmesan (optional): A final flourish for garnish, perfect for extra fragrance or cheesy goodness.
How to Make Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook it just until al dente — that perfect point where it still has a little bite. Don’t forget to scoop out about half a cup of the pasta water right before you drain; this liquid gold can help create a silky sauce later. Drain the pasta and set aside while you work on the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
While your pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it sizzle for a minute, just until fragrant. Quickly add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and give everything a good stir. Let the tomatoes cook for about two minutes, soaking up that garlicky oil and releasing all their concentrated flavor into the base of your Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Tomato Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream, turning the skillet into a decadent bath for your tomatoes and garlic. Bring it to a gentle simmer and sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and (if you’re feeling bold) some red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and let it simmer for three to four minutes, until the sauce thickens enough to lightly coat the back of a spoon. This is where the flavor really comes together.
Step 4: Wilt the Spinach
Pile the fresh spinach into the skillet — it may seem like a lot at first, but it will cook down quickly. Stir for about two minutes, just until the spinach is wilted and bright green. This step not only brings a fresh contrast but also weaves striking color into your Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained spaghetti right into the skillet and toss everything together until the noodles are well coated. If the sauce feels a bit thick, drizzle in some reserved pasta water a little at a time until it glides through the strands. Season with a pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper, then toss again. Serve your masterpiece warm, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh basil for that restaurant-worthy finish.
How to Serve Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Garnishes
A generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan is a must, but don’t stop there! Bright, aromatic basil leaves elevate both the look and flavor of your Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce, while a drizzle of good olive oil or a crack of black pepper can make it feel even more special.
Side Dishes
Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in lemony vinaigrette or a side of warm, crusty bread to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce. Roasted broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or blistered cherry tomatoes also bring great company to this dish without outshining it.
Creative Ways to Present
Twirl the pasta high with tongs into shallow bowls for an elegant restaurant-style vibe, or arrange it family-style on a big platter for easy sharing. Top each portion with a nest of spinach, a few artfully-placed sun-dried tomatoes, and a scattering of fresh herbs for a show-stopping presentation that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce keeps beautifully in the fridge. Let leftovers cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Stored this way, the pasta stays fresh and flavorful for up to three days, making it ideal for next-day lunches or easy reheating.
Freezing
While cream-based pastas can sometimes behave unpredictably in the freezer, you can freeze portions of this dish in airtight containers for up to one month. Just be aware that the sauce may separate a little upon thawing — adding a splash of cream or milk during reheating helps restore its signature texture.
Reheating
For the creamiest results, reheat leftover Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a touch of milk, cream, or even reserved pasta water to help loosen up the sauce as it warms. Stir frequently to prevent sticking, and never let the sauce boil — just heat until everything is creamy and steaming again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic, feel free to swap in linguine, fettuccine, or even short shapes like penne. Just adjust the cooking time for your chosen pasta and everything else stays deliciously the same.
What’s the best way to make this dish vegan?
To keep the sauce creamy and rich without dairy, sub in your favorite plant-based cream (like cashew or oat cream) and use vegan Parmesan-style cheese. Check that your pasta doesn’t contain eggs, and you’re good to go!
Can I add protein to Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce?
Definitely! Try folding in grilled chicken strips, sautéed mushrooms, or even chickpeas for extra protein. Each addition brings something unique but still complements the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce.
Is there a lighter way to make the cream sauce?
You can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a mixture of low-fat milk with a spoonful of Greek yogurt. The result is a bit lighter but still creamy and flavorful — just keep an eye on the sauce as it may thicken more quickly.
How do I keep the spinach bright and not soggy?
Add the spinach at the very end and cook just until it wilts and turns vibrant green. Overcooking will lead to a soggy texture, so give it a quick stir and remove from the heat for the prettiest results.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about a creamy pasta that’s both cozy and packed with flavor — and Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce delivers every time. Give it a try the next time you want to treat yourself or introduce a new crowd-pleaser to your dinner repertoire; you just might find it becomes a staple in your kitchen too!
