This rich and creamy pasta dish features tender spaghetti, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal!
-Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ One-Pan Creamy Sauce – Simple, flavorful, and velvety smooth.
✔️ Fresh & Savory – Spinach, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes create a delicious balance.
✔️ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes!
✔️ Restaurant-Quality at Home – Elegant flavors with minimal effort.
✔️ Vegetarian-Friendly – A satisfying meatless meal with rich textures.
-Ingredients
12 ounces spaghetti
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably packed in oil, drained)
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 cups fresh spinach
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ cup pasta water (reserved from cooking pasta)
Optional Add-Ins:
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (adds depth of flavor)
½ cup mushrooms, sliced (for an earthy touch)
1 tablespoon butter (for extra richness in the sauce)
-Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
-Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, until soft.
3. Stir in minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
-Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
1. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
2. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, oregano, and Italian seasoning.
3. Add ½ cup reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens slightly.
-Step 4: Add Spinach & Combine
1. Add fresh spinach and stir until wilted (about 2 minutes).
2. Toss in the cooked spaghetti, stirring to coat evenly.
3. Adjust seasoning if needed, adding more Parmesan or salt to taste.
-Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
1. Plate the pasta and top with extra Parmesan and fresh basil (optional).
2. Serve hot with garlic bread or a fresh side salad.
-Serving Suggestions
🥖 With Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
🥗 With a Side Salad – A light arugula or Caesar salad balances the richness.
🍷 With White Wine – Pairs beautifully with Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.
🥩 With Grilled Chicken or Shrimp – Add protein for an extra satisfying meal.
-Tips for the Best Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Pasta
🔥 Use Oil-Packed Sun-Dried Tomatoes – More flavor and richness than dry-packed ones.
🧀 Shred Your Own Parmesan – Melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
🥘 Reserve Pasta Water – Helps bind the sauce to the pasta.
🌿 Don’t Overcook the Spinach – Add it just before serving for the best texture.
🌶 Add Heat if Desired – Crushed red pepper flakes bring a mild spice.
-Variations & Flavor Twists
1. Spicy Cajun Cream Pasta 🌶️
Add ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning for bold flavor.
Swap Parmesan for smoked gouda.
2. Creamy Mushroom Spinach Pasta 🍄
Sauté ½ cup sliced mushrooms with onions.
Add a splash of white wine for depth.
3. Protein-Packed Version 🍗
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage.
Stir in crisped bacon bits for extra savoriness.
4. Dairy-Free/Vegan Option 🌱
Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream.
Swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese.
-Storage & Meal Prep Tips
❄️ Store Leftovers – Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
🔥 Reheat – Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk to refresh the sauce.
🧊 Freeze for Later – The sauce can be frozen separately for up to 2 months.
-Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes! Fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni work great with this sauce.
2. How do I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer longer to reduce liquid.
Add extra Parmesan cheese for richness.
3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are GF-certified.
4. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half (lighter option)
Coconut cream (dairy-free option)
-Final Thoughts
This Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s easy to make in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal, date night, or a cozy dinner, this restaurant-quality pasta is sure to impress.
Try it today and enjoy a bowl of creamy, cheesy, and sun-dried tomato goodness!
