Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce: A Creamy Mediterranean-Inspired Pasta

Introduction

Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a comforting yet elegant pasta dish that feels equally suited to a casual dinner or a special occasion. It brings together silky spaghetti, tender spinach, and a rich cream sauce infused with the deep, slightly sweet flavor of sun-dried tomatoes. I often turn to this recipe when I want something indulgent without being overly heavy. The sun-dried tomatoes add intensity and depth, while the spinach keeps the dish fresh and balanced. When I tested this recipe, I found that letting the sauce gently simmer allowed the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a smooth and cohesive result. This is one of those pasta dishes that feels restaurant-worthy but comes together easily in a home kitchen. It is satisfying, versatile, and comforting, making it an excellent choice for both weeknight meals and relaxed entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is quick to prepare, rich in flavor, and made with accessible ingredients. The cream sauce is smooth and comforting, while the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes add freshness and contrast. It is a well-balanced pasta dish that feels indulgent without being overwhelming.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Spaghetti serves as the base of the dish. Its long strands hold the creamy sauce well, ensuring each bite is evenly coated.

Fresh spinach adds color, nutrients, and a mild earthy flavor. It wilts gently into the sauce, blending seamlessly with the pasta.

Sun-dried tomatoes provide concentrated sweetness and a slightly tangy depth that defines the sauce.

Heavy cream forms the foundation of the sauce, delivering a smooth and luxurious texture.

Garlic enhances the sauce with aromatic warmth and savory complexity.

Olive oil is used for sautéing and adds subtle richness to the overall dish.

Parmesan cheese contributes saltiness and depth, helping to thicken the sauce naturally.

Onion adds a mild sweetness and builds the flavor base for the cream sauce.

Salt balances the richness of the cream and enhances the sun-dried tomatoes.

Black pepper adds gentle heat and sharpness.

Red pepper flakes are optional but provide a subtle kick that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce.

Directions

Begin by cooking the spaghetti in well-salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve a small amount of pasta water before draining, as it may be needed to adjust the sauce consistency later.

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.

Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for a minute to release their flavor into the oil. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat and allow the sauce to thicken slightly, stirring occasionally.

Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth.

Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until just wilted. Toss the cooked spaghetti into the sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Mix until the pasta is evenly coated. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, cooking time is 20 minutes, and the dish is ready to serve immediately.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a small splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s texture.

Variations and Customizations

Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is highly adaptable. For added protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta can be stirred in just before serving. Each option pairs well with the creamy sauce.

If you prefer a lighter version, half-and-half can replace heavy cream, resulting in a slightly thinner but still flavorful sauce. I tested this variation and found it worked well for a less rich meal.

Different pasta shapes such as penne or fettuccine can be used if spaghetti is unavailable. Short pasta works especially well for capturing bits of sun-dried tomato.

For extra freshness, a small amount of lemon zest added at the end brightens the dish and balances the creaminess.

If you enjoy herbs, fresh basil or thyme can be added just before serving for a more aromatic finish.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This dish provides carbohydrates from the pasta, fats from the cream and olive oil, and vitamins from the spinach. For a lighter option, reduced-fat cream and whole wheat pasta can be used. Vegetarian by nature, this recipe can be adjusted easily for balanced meal planning.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Salt the Pasta Water Well
Well-seasoned pasta enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Simmer Gently
Avoid boiling the cream to prevent separation.

Use Quality Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Those packed in oil offer the best flavor and texture.

Add Pasta Water Gradually
This helps create a silky, cohesive sauce.

Serve Immediately
The sauce is at its best when freshly prepared.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, but thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative can be used.

Is this dish very rich?

It is creamy but balanced by the spinach and tomatoes.

Can I make it ahead of time?

It is best served fresh, but leftovers reheat well.

Does this recipe work with gluten-free pasta?

Yes, simply substitute your preferred gluten-free pasta.

Can I add mushrooms?

Yes, sautéed mushrooms add depth and texture.

What cheese works besides Parmesan?

Pecorino Romano is a good alternative.

Can I make it spicy?

Increase the red pepper flakes to taste.

Will the sauce thicken as it cools?

Yes, it thickens slightly upon resting.

Is this suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, it is completely vegetarian.

Conclusion

Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a refined yet comforting pasta dish that highlights rich, Mediterranean-inspired flavors. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it is a recipe that delivers consistent satisfaction and deserves a place in any home cook’s repertoire.

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