Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is the perfect comforting meal for busy weeknights! This dish combines tender pasta, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce for a flavor-packed dish that the whole family will love. It’s simple to prepare, making it a go-to recipe when you need something quick, filling, and delicious!
Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ingredients for Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
- How to Make Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
- Tips for Making Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
- Make-Ahead Instructions
- Storing Leftovers
- Freezing Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
- Reheating Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
- Serving Suggestions
- FAQs
- Try these spaghetti recipes next!
- Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
- Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
- One-Pot Pasta Primavera
- Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Busy Weeknights. This spaghetti with sun-dried tomato cream sauce is great for those busy nights when you want a hot meal but you don’t have much time to throw it together. It’s a quick and easy recipe!
- Rich and Satisfying. The creamy sauce bursting with sun-dried tomato flavor enriches every bite, making it a delightful main dish that will leave you feeling full and satisfied.
- Nutrient-Rich. Incorporating fresh spinach, this dish not only tastes great but also adds a healthy twist to your pasta dinner.
Ingredients for Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Spaghetti: The base of the dish, a light pasta that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Fresh Spinach: Adds color, flavor, and nutrition, wilting perfectly into the warm pasta.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Provides a tangy and sweet flavor, essential for the cream sauce.
- Pasta Water: The starch in the water helps to thicken the sauce and ensures it clings to the spaghetti.
- Heavy Cream: Creates a luxurious and rich texture, essential for the creamy sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds depth and a savory flavor to the sauce. Freshly grated cheese is recommended.
- Garlic: Enhances the flavor of the dish with its aromatic qualities.
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, infusing flavor into the dish.
How to Make Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
- Cook the spaghetti according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
- In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat, then add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for a few minutes until fragrant.
- Reduce heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Gradually add in reserved pasta water until the desired creaminess is reached.
- Add the fresh spinach and allow it to wilt, stirring occasionally for about 2-3 minutes.
- Mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Then toss the spaghetti into the sauce until well-coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper.
Tips for Making Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
- Adjust Creaminess: Depending on your preference, add more or less pasta water to achieve the desired creaminess of the sauce.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh spinach and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes for the best flavor and nutrition.
- Protein Addition: For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp to the dish before serving.
Make-Ahead Instructions
- Prepare the sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Cook the pasta and store it separately. Combine before serving and reheat as needed.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover spaghetti with sun-dried tomato cream sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.
Freezing Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
- While this dish is best fresh, you can freeze the sauce separately. Let the sauce cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Reheat the sauce on the stove before combining it with fresh cooked pasta.
Reheating Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
- Reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Add a splash of cream or water if the sauce has thickened too much during refrigeration or freezing.
Serving Suggestions
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with any long pasta such as fettuccine or linguine.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken or shrimp make great additions.
Are sun-dried tomatoes healthy?
Yes! Sun-dried tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
Can I make this dish vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the cream with coconut milk and omit the cheese.
Try these spaghetti recipes next!
Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
One-Pot Pasta Primavera
Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
