Name: Creamy Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Spaghetti (High-quality durum wheat pasta.); 1 tbsp Salt (For seasoning the water.); 2 tbsp Olive Oil (Good-quality extra virgin.); 1 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes (Oil-packed for better texture.); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced.); 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (Optional.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Or Half-and-Half for a lighter option.); 1/4 tsp Black Pepper (Freshly cracked.); 4 cups Fresh Baby Spinach (Wilts perfectly into the sauce.); 1/4 cup Fresh Basil (Fold in at the end.); 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Save some for garnish.); 1/4 cup Additional Parmesan (Optional for serving.)

As I rummaged through my pantry, I stumbled upon a jar of sun-dried tomatoes and a bag of vibrant spinach, instantly inspiring my next culinary adventure. This craving led me to create a delightful dish that combines the comforting ease of Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this creamy pasta that not only satisfies hunger but also brings a splash of color and flavor to your dinner table. What I love most about this recipe is how it transforms simple ingredients into a decadent, vegetarian meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy gathering with friends. Can you already picture your family enjoying this sumptuous comfort food? Let's dive into this delicious experience together!

Why is this dish a weeknight hero?

Quick to Make: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor or nutrition.

Creamy Indulgence: The sun-dried tomato cream sauce adds a rich taste that pairs beautifully with fresh spinach and al dente pasta.

Vegetarian Delight: Perfect for those craving a meatless option without sacrificing satisfaction.

Versatile Ingredient Options: Easily customize with roasted pine nuts for crunch or toss in some protein for a heartier dish.

Family-Friendly Appeal: This recipe is loved by adults and kids alike, making it a go-to for busy weeknights.

Whether you're serving it alongside a crisp arugula salad or pairing it with some warm, toasted baguette, your table will be filled with vibrant colors and irresistible aromas. Don’t forget to check out our Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole for an equally comforting twist!

Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Ingredients

For the Pasta

Spaghetti – The backbone of the dish; opt for high-quality durum wheat pasta for the best texture.
Salt – Essential for seasoning the water and enhances flavor; don’t skip this step!

For the Sauce

Olive Oil – Prevents sticking and adds fruity notes; good-quality extra virgin elevates the taste.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Provide a sweet-tart flavor; choose oil-packed varieties for better texture and flavor.
Garlic – Adds aromatic flavor; mince it for even infusion into the sauce.
Red Pepper Flakes – Optional for a spicy kick; adjust according to your spice threshold.
Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half – Forms the creamy base of the sauce; using heavy cream yields a richer texture.
Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; fresh cracked pepper adds a delightful pungency.

For the Vegetables

Fresh Baby Spinach – Provides brilliant color and fresh flavor; wilts perfectly into the sauce.
Fresh Basil – Adds aromatic freshness; fold it into the dish at the end for a burst of flavor.

For Garnish

Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds salty, nutty richness; save some for a lovely garnish.
Additional Parmesan – Optional for serving; sprinkle on top for an added cheesy touch.

Get ready to impress your family with this Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce that perfectly balances taste and nourishment!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining the spaghetti in a colander, ensuring perfect consistency for your sauce.

Step 2: Sauté Sun-Dried Tomatoes
While the pasta cooks, heat a generous drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the drained and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, sautéing them for about 2 minutes. Look for them to soften slightly and start to release their flavorful oils, creating a fragrant base for your sun-dried tomato cream sauce.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spice
Next, stir in the minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet, cooking for 30 seconds. Make sure the garlic doesn't brown, as this could turn bitter; instead, you want it to be fragrant and slightly golden. This aromatic blend will amplify the flavors of your spaghetti and spinach with sun-dried tomato cream sauce.

Step 4: Create the Cream Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Stir the mixture and let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally. The sauce will take on a creamy consistency, so season it with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

Step 5: Wilt the Spinach
Incorporate the fresh baby spinach into the skillet, stirring gently until it wilts, which should take about 2-3 minutes. The vibrant greens will add color and freshness to your sauce, while their delicate flavor complements the sun-dried tomatoes beautifully in this spaghetti and spinach dish.

Step 6: Mix in the Parmesan
Once the spinach is tender, add grated Parmesan cheese into the creamy sauce, stirring until melted and well combined. If the sauce seems too thick, adjust the consistency by slowly adding the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired creaminess. This step is essential for ensuring your spaghetti and spinach with sun-dried tomato cream sauce is luxuriously smooth.

Step 7: Combine Spaghetti with Sauce
Add the drained spaghetti directly into the skillet, gently tossing it with tongs to coat each strand evenly in the creamy sauce. Ensure that the pasta fully absorbs the wonderful flavors of the sauce, creating a rich and fulfilling meal everyone will love.

Step 8: Finish with Fresh Basil
Remove the skillet from the heat and fold in the fresh basil leaves, giving the dish a burst of aromatic flavor. This final touch adds a fragrant note that elevates your spaghetti and spinach with sun-dried tomato cream sauce, making it not only a feast for the palate but also for the senses.

Step 9: Serve and Garnish
Plate your creamy spaghetti and spinach dish immediately, garnishing with additional grated Parmesan and extra basil if desired. This adds a visual contrast and a bit more indulgence to your meal, creating an appealing presentation that’s sure to impress your family or guests.

Make Ahead Options

These Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce components are perfect for meal prep, saving you valuable time during busy weeknights! You can cook the spaghetti up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it; just be sure to toss it with a bit of olive oil to keep it from sticking together. Additionally, the sun-dried tomato cream sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead—store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce on the stove, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed. This way, your creamy pasta will be just as delicious and fresh with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Creamy Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this creamy pasta dish with a variety of delicious sides and drinks that bring out its vibrant flavors.

Crisp Arugula Salad: A fresh, peppery salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta, adding a refreshing contrast.
Garlic Bread: Warm, toasted garlic bread is a classic side that not only satisfies but also scoops up every last bit of creamy sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized seasonal veggies provide sweetness and a wonderful texture, making the meal wholesome and balanced.
Grilled Chicken: Juicy, herb-marinated chicken adds protein and heartiness, turning this into a filling and satisfying feast.
Pinot Grigio: This light white wine enhances the creamy sauce with its crisp acidity, creating a lovely balance with every sip.
Cheesecake: A slice of rich cheesecake with a berry topping provides a perfect sweet finish to round out your meal.
Pesto Bruschetta: Flavorful tomato and basil bruschetta drizzled with pesto brings an Italian flair, echoing the flavors in the main dish.
Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, zucchini noodles add a fun twist while still soaking up the luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce.
Sparkling Water: A bubbly and refreshing drink to cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Expert Tips for Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Pasta Perfection: Reserve a cup of starchy pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency, ensuring a creamy finish that clings beautifully to your spaghetti.
Garlic Awareness: Sauté the garlic just until fragrant; browning it might lead to bitterness, which can overshadow the dish’s comforting flavors.
Gentle Stirring: Be mindful when folding in the spinach; stir gently to maintain its vibrant color and freshness without overcooking it.
Quality Over Quantity: Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes and olive oil. Their rich flavors are key to elevating your spaghetti and spinach with sun-dried tomato cream sauce.
Customize and Enjoy: Feel free to mix in other vegetables or proteins for a delightful twist; mushrooms, grilled chicken, or roasted pine nuts can enhance this dish’s appeal.

How to Store and Freeze Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of reserved pasta water to restore creaminess.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, then combine with freshly cooked spaghetti.

Reheating: Gently heat the thawed sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add pasta water as needed to ensure a smooth consistency.

Preparation Ahead: You can prepare the sun-dried tomato cream sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, making dinner even quicker when you're ready to serve your Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce.

Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Variations

Feel free to play around with this dish, enhancing its flavors and textures while keeping that creamy goodness intact!

Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free spaghetti to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
Nutty Texture: Add a handful of roasted pine nuts for an unexpected crunch; they'll add richness and depth to each bite.
Protein Boost: Toss in cooked chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. Alternatively, chickpeas work wonderfully for a vegetarian protein option.
Zesty Kick: Incorporate a splash of lemon juice before serving; it brightens the dish and balances the creamy sauce delightfully.
Wine Infusion: For a flavor boost, add a splash of white wine to the skillet after sautéing the garlic, allowing it to simmer for a few minutes before adding the cream.
Herb Twist: Try adding different herbs like oregano or thyme in place of or alongside basil for a new aromatic profile.
Veggie Delight: Boost the veggie content by adding roasted zucchini or bell peppers; they bring extra nutrients and a pop of color.

If you're looking to explore more savory combinations, why not check out our Bake Pumpkin Tomato recipe for a delightful twist, or indulge in some Tomato Zucchini Pasta for an equally comforting experience!

Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe FAQs

What type of spaghetti should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using high-quality durum wheat spaghetti for the best texture and flavor. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, feel free to substitute with gluten-free spaghetti—just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package for perfect results.

How should I store leftovers of Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you reheat, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help restore the creamy consistency of the sauce.

Can I freeze this spaghetti dish?
Absolutely! For freezing, transfer the sauce to an airtight container and store it for up to 2 months. I suggest freezing the sauce separately from the pasta. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw the sauce overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently in a skillet. Cook fresh spaghetti to enjoy with your creamy sauce.

What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out thicker than you'd like, don’t worry! Simply add in small amounts of the reserved pasta water, stirring until you reach your desired consistency. This is a handy trick to ensure your sauce is luxuriously creamy.

Are there any common allergens in this recipe?
Yes, this spaghetti dish contains dairy from the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. If you're catering to someone with a dairy allergy, consider using dairy-free cream alternatives and vegan cheese options. Always double-check labels for potential allergens based on your personal dietary needs.

How can I add more flavor to the dish?
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the sun-dried tomatoes or tossing in additional vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. These tweaks not only enhance the taste but also keep your meal exciting each time you make it!