Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe

If you’re searching for vegetarian pasta perfection that’s impossible to resist, Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is about to sweep you off your feet! Creamy, savory, and punctuated with sun-dried tomato tang, this Italian-inspired dish brings together twirly al dente noodles, a decadent (yet easy!) cream sauce, heaps of fresh spinach, and a touch of basil for freshness. It tastes like something you’d savor at a cozy trattoria, but you can whip it up in under 30 minutes from the comfort of your own kitchen.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce so special is the way each simple ingredient layers on color, flavor, and texture. These pantry and fridge staples come together quickly, yet every one adds a note you don’t want to miss!

• Spaghetti: The classic choice for soaking up every drop of that luscious cream sauce—cook just until al dente for the perfect bite.
• Olive oil: Brings richness and fruity depth to the sauce, perfect for sautéing garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Garlic (minced): Adds an unmistakably savory kick and aromatic foundation to the dish—don’t skip it!
• Sun-dried tomatoes in oil (drained and chopped): These offer bursts of sweetness and chewy texture; make sure to pat them dry for the best results.
• Heavy cream: The secret to a velvety, silky sauce that clings to every strand of pasta (substitute with half-and-half for a lighter touch).
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty, salty depth and helps the sauce thicken into gorgeous creaminess.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): Just a pinch elevates the flavor and adds gentle heat—perfect for spice lovers.
• Fresh spinach: Wilts down beautifully, adding bright color and a fresh, earthy flavor that perfectly balances the richness.
• Salt & black pepper: Essential for amplifying all the flavors—taste as you go for the ideal seasoning.
• Fresh basil (chopped): Don’t skip the garnish! It lifts the finished dish with a pop of color and herby aroma.

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

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until just al dente, following the package instructions. Right before draining, scoop out about ½ cup of pasta water and reserve it—this will give your sauce the perfect creamy consistency. Drain the spaghetti and set aside, ready for its creamy destiny!

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, stirring for 2 to 3 minutes until everything smells wonderfully fragrant and the tomatoes are slightly softened. This step is the secret to building deep, irresistible flavor right from the start.

Step 3: Create the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and (if you like a little spice), sprinkle in those red pepper flakes. Let the sauce cook for about 3 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens enough to coat the back of your spoon. The cheese should melt right in, turning everything irresistibly creamy.

Step 4: Wilt the Spinach

Add the fresh spinach right into the hot sauce in handfuls, stirring gently as it wilts down to a lovely green tangle. This only takes a minute or two; the spinach will look like a lot at first, but trust the process—it melts perfectly into the sauce, bringing freshness and color.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Now, toss the drained spaghetti into the skillet, using tongs to swirl everything together so the noodles are well-coated in that dreamy sun-dried tomato cream sauce. If the sauce looks too thick, gradually add a splash or two of your reserved pasta water until it reaches your ideal glossy, silky consistency. Season with salt and black pepper, tasting and adjusting as you go. Right before serving, sprinkle fresh basil on top and maybe a little more Parmesan for good measure!

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

Garnishes

For the final flourish, top each plate of Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce with extra ribbons of fresh basil and a generous dusting of grated Parmesan. A crack of black pepper and a drizzle of good olive oil will take it to the next level. Even a scatter of toasted pine nuts or a pinch of lemon zest can add memorable flair!

Side Dishes

This pasta shines as the centerpiece of any meal, but it’s even more delightful with a simple side. Try a crisp green salad in a light vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or a hunk of warm, crusty bread to mop up every creamy drop of sauce. A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with lemon truly completes the experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce in a wide, shallow bowl for a restaurant-worthy look—gather the noodles high for gorgeous height and sprinkle the basil like confetti. Or, for a fun twist, nestle the pasta in individual ramekins for a dinner party, or offer a DIY “pasta bar” with bowls of fresh herbs and cheese for everyone to customize their own dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is a big “if” with this crowd-pleasing dish!), transfer the Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce stays surprisingly luscious and flavorful—just remember to cool it fully before sealing.

Freezing

While the cream sauce is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Spoon the cooled pasta and sauce into freezer-safe containers. For best texture, freeze for up to one month and defrost overnight in the fridge. Be aware the sauce might separate a bit; a quick stir during reheating brings it back together nicely.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta and warm gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently until everything is creamy again. The microwave works in a pinch, but stir halfway through to prevent the sauce from overheating. Garnish with extra basil and cheese for that just-cooked finish!

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic here, feel free to swap in linguine, fettuccine, or even short shapes like penne or rigatoni. The creamy sun-dried tomato sauce clings beautifully to just about any variety—use your favorite or whatever you have on hand!

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you want a lighter spin on Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce, try using half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind, the sauce will be a bit less rich, so you might want to add a little extra Parmesan to get the right thickness and flavor.

Can I add protein to this recipe?

Yes! For a heartier meal, toss in some grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even white beans. Simply add your protein with the cooked spaghetti, letting everything warm together in the luscious sauce before serving.

Is it okay to use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Frozen spinach can be a handy substitute if fresh isn’t available. Just thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess liquid before adding it to the cream sauce. This keeps your Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce from getting watery.

How do I make it spicy?

If you love a little heat, increase the red pepper flakes to your taste—or serve them on the side for guests to customize their spice level. A dash of hot sauce or even Calabrian chili paste stirred into the sauce can add delicious fiery depth!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll find Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce as addictive as I do—there’s just something magical about that silky crimson sauce tangled up with fresh greens. Give it a try, share it with your favorite people, and make it your own. Your weeknight dinners (and pasta-loving heart) will thank you!

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