Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a rich, comforting Italian-inspired pasta dish that’s bursting with bold Mediterranean flavours. Tender spaghetti is coated in a silky Parmesan cream sauce infused with garlic, Italian herbs, and sweet-tangy sun-dried tomatoes, while fresh spinach adds colour, freshness, and balance to every bite.

Ready in only 30 minutes, this creamy pasta recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, date nights, or elegant family dinners. Pair it with warm garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete restaurant-quality meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 30 minutes.
• Creamy, rich, and full of Mediterranean flavour.
• Perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Loaded with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Simple ingredients with impressive results.
• Easy to customise with your favourite protein.

Recipe Information

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 610 per serving
• Protein: Approximately 19 g per serving

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and sliced
• 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Cream Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup reserved pasta water

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese

Kitchen Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Colander
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water.
4. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

5. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
6. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using.
7. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
8. Stir in the sliced sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2–3 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Sauce

9. Pour the heavy cream into the skillet.
10. Stir in the Italian seasoning.
11. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
12. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until completely melted and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

13. Add the chopped spinach and cook until just wilted.
14. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet.
15. Toss gently until every strand is coated in the creamy sauce.
16. Gradually add the reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency.
17. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

18. Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil.
19. Top with additional Parmesan cheese.
20. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Serving Suggestions

• Warm garlic bread.
• Caesar salad.
• Mixed green salad with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Roasted asparagus.
• Garlic roasted broccoli.
• Grilled chicken.
• Pan-seared salmon.
• Garlic butter shrimp.

Chef’s Tips

• Cook the spaghetti just until al dente to prevent it from becoming soft after tossing with the sauce.
• Freshly grate the Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
• Use the reserved pasta water gradually to create a silky consistency.
• Avoid boiling the cream vigorously to prevent separation.
• Add the spinach at the end so it stays bright green and tender.

Recipe Variations

• Add grilled chicken for extra protein.
• Stir in sautéed mushrooms for earthy flavour.
• Add cooked shrimp for a seafood version.
• Use penne, fettuccine, or linguine instead of spaghetti.
• Include toasted pine nuts for extra crunch.
• Finish with fresh lemon zest for brightness.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to restore the creamy texture. Freezing is not recommended, as cream sauces may separate after thawing.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 610
• Protein: 19 g
• Carbohydrates: 57 g
• Fat: 34 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 520 mg

Health Benefits

• Spinach provides iron, vitamin A, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
• Sun-dried tomatoes are rich in lycopene and natural antioxidants.
• Olive oil contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Parmesan cheese contributes calcium and protein.
• A satisfying vegetarian meal that can easily be adapted with lean proteins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes. Linguine, fettuccine, penne, rigatoni, or tagliatelle all work beautifully with this creamy sauce.

Can I make the sauce lighter?

Yes. Replace part of the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, although the sauce will be slightly less rich.

Can I add protein?

Absolutely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, Italian sausage, or crispy pancetta all pair wonderfully with the sun-dried tomato cream sauce.

Can I make it vegetarian?

It already is vegetarian if you use vegetarian Parmesan cheese. Simply serve as written or add more vegetables.

What vegetables can I add?

Mushrooms, zucchini, asparagus, broccoli, roasted peppers, peas, or artichoke hearts all complement the creamy Mediterranean flavours.

Final Thoughts

Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a comforting pasta dish that delivers rich, creamy texture alongside vibrant Mediterranean flavours. Sweet sun-dried tomatoes, tender spinach, Parmesan, garlic, and silky cream create an irresistible sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of spaghetti. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests, this simple recipe is guaranteed to become one of your favourite pasta dishes.

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