Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe

If there’s ever been a dish that can coax wide-eyed awe out of your usual weeknight dinner crowd, it’s Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce. Imagine twirling glossy, al dente spaghetti strands in a silky, sun-kissed sauce that gets a flavor boost from sun-dried tomatoes and a lively handful of bright green spinach. Every bite is smooth, rich, and perfectly tangy, thanks to the blend of parmesan and fragrant Italian herbs. This is one of those meals that feels extravagant, yet it’s so simple to make—and trust me, everyone at your table will be asking for seconds.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is how each ingredient does double duty—bringing key tastes and textures that transform a humble pasta dish into something memorable. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a quick tip for each to help you make the most of every flavor.

• Spaghetti (12 oz): Classic spaghetti holds the creamy sauce perfectly, but fettuccine or linguine work great too for a twist.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Using good olive oil adds an extra layer of flavor right from the start; don’t skip this foundation step.
• Garlic, minced (3 cloves): A quick sauté brings intense aroma and depth, waking up every other flavor in the skillet.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Oil, drained and chopped (1 cup): These deliver big, tangy bursts of flavor and a touch of sweetness—be sure to chop them for even distribution.
• Fresh Baby Spinach (2 cups): The spinach wilts beautifully into the sauce, packing color, nutrition, and a mild, earthy note.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup): This is key for a lusciously creamy, indulgent sauce—feel free to swap for coconut cream if you want a dairy-free version.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (½ cup): Parmesan brings a savory, nutty richness that melds the sauce together; fresh grated is best if possible.
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth (½ cup): Broth provides savory depth and keeps the sauce from being too heavy—choose veggie broth for a delicious vegetarian meal.
• Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): This simple blend infuses herby warmth and complexity into every bite.
• Salt and Pepper to taste: Don’t underestimate a good pinch of salt and a crack of black pepper for balancing and amplifying flavors.
• Fresh Basil, chopped (2 tablespoons, optional): For a gorgeous finish and bright aroma—if you have fresh basil, it really lifts the final dish.

How to Make Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Start your journey by bringing a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until just al dente—about 8 to 10 minutes. Don’t forget to scoop out and reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water is like a secret weapon for perfecting the sauce’s consistency later on.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

While your pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet set over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic, letting it sizzle just until fragrant—about a minute should do it. Next, add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another couple of minutes. You’ll notice an irresistible aroma wafting from your pan, promising delicious things to come.

Step 3: Build the Cream Sauce

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and heavy cream, stirring gently to combine with the sautéed aromatics. Sprinkle in your Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes so the flavors have time to meld, and the sauce thickens ever so slightly.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Spinach

Off the heat, stir in that lovely Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce—this is where the luscious, creamy texture comes together. Next, add all your fresh baby spinach and give it a few stirs; it will wilt beautifully in just a minute or two but will stay vibrantly green.

Step 5: Toss Pasta and Sauce Together

Add your cooked and drained spaghetti directly to the skillet with the sauce. Use tongs to toss everything so the pasta is thoroughly coated—if the sauce seems a little thick, pour in some of your reserved pasta water, a splash at a time, until it’s exactly how you like. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

If you have fresh basil on hand, sprinkle it over the top just before serving. Not only does it make the dish look gorgeous, but it also adds such a lively, aromatic finish that’s straight out of an Italian kitchen. Now, serve immediately and let everyone dig in to your Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce!

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

Garnishes

For finishing touches that really make Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce pop, you can’t beat a sprinkle of fresh chopped basil and extra Parmesan right before serving. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds a gorgeous sheen and deepens the flavor even more. If you’re feeling fancy, a dash of cracked black pepper or red pepper flakes brings the perfect touch of color and spice.

Side Dishes

This pasta is rich and creamy, so balance it out with a crisp green salad splashed with a zesty vinaigrette or a plate of simply roasted vegetables. Warm, crusty bread (think homemade garlic bread or ciabatta) is the ideal companion to swipe up every last drop of the sun-dried tomato cream sauce. And for a weekend meal, a refreshing glass of sparkling water with lemon or a chilled white wine would be lovely alongside.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to dazzle? You can twirl single servings of Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce into little nests on each plate for a bistro-style look, or serve family-style piled high in a large bowl. For a dinner party, top each portion with a dollop of ricotta or a swirl of pesto for extra flair. Or, go playful and serve individual ramekin “spaghetti cups” as appetizers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have extras? Let your Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The sauce may thicken a bit, but it keeps its rich, savory flavor.

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place portions into freezer-friendly containers. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge. The sauce may separate slightly, but you can stir it together as it reheats.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen up the sauce. Stir frequently so the cream sauce returns to its lusciously smooth consistency. If you’re in a rush, a minute or so in the microwave works too—just go slow, stirring after every 30 seconds.

FAQs

Can I make Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just be sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and double-check that your Parmesan is vegetarian-friendly. The flavor stays vibrant and rich whether you opt for veggie or chicken broth.

What protein can I add for a heartier meal?

To take your Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce from side dish to show-stopping main course, simply toss in some sautéed chicken breast, shrimp, or even cannellini beans for a vegetarian protein kick.

What’s the best way to avoid curdling the cream sauce?

Keep the heat moderate and be sure to add the cream after you’ve lowered the temperature a bit. Avoid boiling once the cream is in—gentle simmering will ensure your sauce stays smooth.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Definitely! Swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The sauce will still be beautifully creamy and packed with flavor.

How do I adjust the consistency of the sauce?

Your reserved pasta water is your best friend here. Add it little by little to loosen the sauce or simmer it a bit longer to thicken. This trick helps your Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce reach the perfect texture no matter your preference.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to experience just how rewarding and crowd-pleasing Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce truly is. Every forkful brings a taste of comfort and a touch of elegance, whether it’s for a weeknight treat or a happy gathering of friends. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular favorite in your kitchen!

Print