Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

If you’re looking for a creamy, flavorful, and easy-to-make pasta dish, Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is the perfect recipe to try. This dish combines the rich umami taste of sun-dried tomatoes, the fresh bite of spinach, and the indulgent creaminess of the sauce—all tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner, a romantic meal, or a comforting weekend lunch, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality experience at home.

Not only is it delicious, but it also comes together in just 30 minutes with simple ingredients. It’s a great option for vegetarians, but can easily be customized with proteins like chicken or shrimp. Ready to elevate your pasta game? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Quick and Easy

This recipe requires minimal prep and cooks in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy schedules.

✅ Rich, Creamy, and Satisfying

The sun-dried tomato cream sauce is full of deep, umami flavors with a velvety texture that coats every strand of spaghetti beautifully.

✅ Healthy Twist with Spinach

Adding fresh spinach boosts the nutritional value while complementing the creamy, tangy sauce.

✅ Customizable

Want to add protein? Try grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu. Prefer a spicy kick? Sprinkle in red pepper flakes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce, gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients:

For the Pasta:

✔ 12 oz spaghetti (or any pasta of choice)
✔ 2 teaspoons salt (for boiling water)

For the Sauce:

✔ 2 tablespoons olive oil (or the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar)
✔ 4 cloves garlic, minced
✔ 1 small onion, finely chopped
✔ ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
✔ 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed)
✔ 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
✔ ½ cup vegetable broth (or pasta water)
✔ ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or pecorino)
✔ 1 teaspoon dried oregano
✔ ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
✔ ½ teaspoon black pepper
✔ 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

For Garnishing:

✔ Extra Parmesan cheese
✔ Fresh basil leaves
✔ Cracked black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water for later use. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic, Onion, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add garlic, chopped onion, and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté until the onions become soft and fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).
3. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and let them cook for another 2 minutes, allowing their flavors to release into the oil.

Step 3: Make the Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

1. Reduce the heat to low-medium and pour in the heavy cream and vegetable broth (or reserved pasta water). Stir well.
2. Add the Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Add the Spinach

1. Stir in the chopped spinach, allowing it to wilt into the sauce (about 1-2 minutes).
2. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more pasta water to adjust the consistency.

Step 5: Toss the Pasta with the Sauce

1. Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss until every strand is well coated.
2. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

1. Remove from heat and sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil on top.
2. Serve immediately, with freshly cracked black pepper and a drizzle of extra olive oil if desired.

Best Cheese Pairings for This Pasta

The right cheese can elevate the flavors of your sun-dried tomato cream sauce. Here are some great options:

• Parmesan or Pecorino Romano: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that balances the creaminess.
• Goat Cheese: A tangy option that enhances the umami of the sun-dried tomatoes.
• Ricotta or Mascarpone: Adds extra creaminess for a rich, velvety texture.

Variations & Add-Ons

One of the best things about this pasta dish is its versatility. Here are some delicious ways to switch it up:

1. Add Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Slice and mix in before serving.
• Shrimp: Sauté separately and toss with the pasta at the end.
• Tofu or Tempeh: For a plant-based alternative.

2. Try Different Greens

• Kale or arugula can be used instead of spinach for a different texture and taste.

3. Make it Spicy

• Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.

4. Experiment with Pasta Types

• Use penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni if you prefer a different shape.

5. Make it Dairy-Free

• Swap heavy cream for coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Best Side Dishes:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the extra creamy sauce.
• Caesar Salad: A refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini make great sides.

Best Drinks to Pair with This Pasta:

• White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce.
• Red Wine: A light Pinot Noir or Merlot works well with the sun-dried tomato flavors.
• Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing non-alcoholic option.

Expert Tips for the Best Pasta Dish

✔ Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for richer flavor. If using dry-packed, rehydrate them in warm water first.
✔ Save pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency and add extra creaminess.
✔ Don’t overcook the spinach—add it at the end to keep it vibrant and fresh.
✔ Balance the flavors by adding a splash of white wine or balsamic vinegar for acidity.
✔ Use freshly grated cheese for the best texture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers:

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• On the Stovetop: Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and reheat on low.
• In the Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between to avoid drying out.

Can You Freeze It?

• Yes, but cream-based sauces can separate when thawed. To fix this, reheat gently while whisking to blend the sauce back together.

Final Thoughts

Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a quick, satisfying, and flavor-packed dish perfect for any occasion. The creamy sun-dried tomato sauce paired with tender spinach and al dente spaghetti creates a mouthwatering combination that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Try this recipe today and experiment with variations to make it your own! Let us know how you liked it and if you added any special twists.

Happy cooking! 🍝😊

Print