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.
