Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a creamy and flavorful dish that's simple enough for any home cook. The rich, velvety sauce coats tender spaghetti and fresh spinach perfectly, making each bite a delicious comfort food experience. This recipe uses pantry staples and comes together quickly, ideal for busy weeknights. For more easy pasta ideas, try my Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad for a refreshing side or meal.
Why You'll Love Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce - Easy Homemade Dinner
Make this Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce - a quick, creamy homemade meal perfect for weeknights or family dinners.
- Creamy sun-dried tomato sauce adds bold flavor without extra effort.
- Fresh spinach boosts nutrition and color, making it family-friendly.
- Uses simple pantry staples for a budget-friendly dinner.
- Ready in just 40 minutes, great for quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients for Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce - Easy Homemade Dinner
Sun-dried tomatoes: Use oil-packed for more flavor; dry-packed can be rehydrated in warm water.Heavy cream: Provides rich sauce; substitute half-and-half for lighter option but sauce will be less thick.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Use oil-packed for more flavor; dry-packed can be rehydrated in warm water.
- Heavy cream: Provides rich sauce; substitute half-and-half for lighter option but sauce will be less thick.
Ingredient Note: Full measurements for Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce - Easy Homemade Dinner are listed in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce - Easy Homemade Dinner
Step 1 — Prep & Preheat
Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
Step 2 — Cook and Build Flavor
Sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using); cook 2 minutes.
Step 3 — Finish, Taste, and Adjust
Add cream and cheese: Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Let sauce thicken slightly, about 3–4 minutes. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time.
Expert Tips for Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce - Easy Homemade Dinner
- Save some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency perfectly.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and taste.
- Wilt spinach just before serving to keep it bright and tender.
Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce - Easy Homemade Dinner
Make this Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce - a quick, creamy homemade meal perfect for weeknights or family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 3 cups fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish
Optional Toppings
- Grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese
- Toasted pine nuts or walnuts
Instructions
How to Make Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
- Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
- Sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using); cook 2 minutes.
- Add cream and cheese: Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Let sauce thicken slightly, about 3–4 minutes. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time.
- Mix spinach and pasta: Add chopped spinach to the sauce and cook until just wilted, about 1–2 minutes. Toss in cooked spaghetti and mix well to evenly coat. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Nutrition (per serving)
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended (texture changes).
- Serve/Reheat: Best chilled or at room temperature.
Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce - Easy Homemade Dinner FAQs
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta separately ahead. Combine and reheat gently before serving for best texture.
Half-and-half is a lighter substitute, though the sauce will be less creamy. For dairy-free, use canned coconut milk.
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid sauce separation.
It may be too thick if you didn't reserve pasta water or used low-fat cream. Add reserved pasta water or a bit of milk to loosen the sauce.
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