Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
I always find comfort in a big bowl of creamy pasta, and this Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is the very definition of comfort food. There’s something magical about the richness of cream paired with the concentrated flavor of sun dried tomatoes. The way the sauce hugs each strand of spaghetti, infused with the savory goodness of garlic and the bright pop of fresh spinach, makes every bite unforgettable.
This recipe came together on one of those evenings when I wanted something indulgent but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The pantry staples came to my rescue: a jar of sun dried tomatoes, some leftover cream, and fresh spinach that needed using. I tossed everything together and took a bite – and I knew I had to share it with you.
What I adore most about this pasta is how it feels both luxurious and accessible. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want to treat yourself, but it’s also elegant enough to serve guests. The creamy sauce is flavorful without being heavy, and the spinach adds a pop of color and freshness that keeps the dish from being too rich. If you love creamy pasta dishes like my Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta or Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach, this will quickly become another favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
This dish is a creamy, dreamy pasta fantasy made in under 30 minutes. It combines the depth of sun dried tomatoes with a luscious cream sauce and fresh spinach to balance out the richness. It’s vegetarian-friendly, easily customizable, and pairs beautifully with everything from crusty bread to grilled chicken. Whether you’re cooking for one or for a family dinner, this spaghetti is guaranteed to please your palate and elevate your pasta nights.
Ingredients
Spaghetti: The base of the dish. It soaks up the creamy sauce perfectly and offers that satisfying bite we all crave in a pasta dish.
Sun Dried Tomatoes: These are the star flavor component. Their tangy sweetness and deep umami add intensity and depth that fresh tomatoes just can’t match.
Fresh Spinach: Bright and leafy, it cuts through the richness of the sauce and adds color, nutrients, and freshness to every forkful.
Garlic: Essential for building flavor. It provides an aromatic base that enhances the cream and tomato flavors.
Heavy Cream: The main body of the sauce. It makes the dish rich, silky, and indulgent.
Parmesan Cheese: Added for nutty, salty richness that melts beautifully into the sauce and ties everything together.
Olive Oil: Used to sauté the garlic and sun dried tomatoes, adding a layer of fruity richness.
Salt & Black Pepper: Fundamental seasonings that elevate all the other flavors.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a subtle heat that livens up the creaminess.
How to Make Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
Step 2: Sauté the Flavor Base
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add minced garlic and sun dried tomatoes. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently, then mix in grated Parmesan cheese. Let it melt into a smooth, rich sauce.
Step 4: Add Spinach
Toss in the fresh spinach and cook until just wilted. This takes about 2-3 minutes. If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Mix until well combined and heated through.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot with extra Parmesan and a crack of black pepper on top. Enjoy immediately!
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
You can easily switch up the ingredients in this Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce to suit your taste or dietary needs. For a protein boost, grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon would be fantastic additions. If you want to go plant-based, swap the cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Not a fan of spinach? Try arugula or kale for a different green twist. Sun dried tomatoes can be swapped with roasted red peppers if you prefer a milder, sweeter flavor. Gluten-free spaghetti works just as well if you’re avoiding wheat.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This pasta is rich and flavorful, so it pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess perfectly. You can also serve it with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to mop up every drop of sauce. For drinks, a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a sparkling water with lemon adds a refreshing balance.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving on high heat as it can cause the cream to separate.
FAQs
Can I make Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Cook the pasta fresh and toss it with the reheated sauce when ready to serve.
Is Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely. As long as you use vegetarian Parmesan or omit it, this dish is entirely vegetarian.
Can I freeze Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce?
Freezing is not recommended as the cream-based sauce may separate and lose its texture upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for short-term use.
What can I do if the sauce for Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is too thick?
Just add a bit of the reserved pasta water or a splash of milk while reheating. This will help bring back the creamy consistency without diluting the flavor.
Related Recipe You’ll Like
If you’re loving the flavor combination in this Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce, be sure to check out Marry Me Chicken Pasta for another ultra-creamy, tomato-kissed dish. You might also find inspiration in my Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts if you’re looking to incorporate protein into a similar sauce base.
Save and Share This Recipe for Later
Don’t forget to pin this recipe on your Pinterest board so you can come back to it whenever those creamy pasta cravings hit. Sharing is caring, so feel free to email it to a fellow foodie, or post it on your social feed to spread the deliciousness. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a dinner party winner, this dish deserves a spot in your recipe rotation!
Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
This Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a luxurious, creamy pasta dish that's perfect for a cozy dinner or a special gathering. Made with al dente spaghetti coated in a rich, velvety cream sauce, the recipe features sun dried tomatoes for a sweet and tangy kick and fresh spinach for a burst of color and freshness. A touch of garlic and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese tie it all together. It’s a quick, 30-minute recipe that brings gourmet flavors straight to your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium. Add garlic and sun dried tomatoes, sauté for 1-2 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low. Pour in heavy cream and stir. Mix in Parmesan until melted and smooth.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Add reserved pasta water if needed.
- Add cooked spaghetti and toss to coat in sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Serve hot with extra Parmesan and black pepper on top.
Notes
- To make it vegetarian, ensure your Parmesan is vegetarian-friendly.
- For added protein, top with grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk.
