Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

If you’re craving a pasta dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients, Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is the recipe for you. This dish combines al dente spaghetti, fresh spinach, and a rich, velvety sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and cream. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create this delicious pasta dish. From preparing the sun-dried tomato cream sauce to perfectly cooking the spaghetti, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we’ll share tips for customizing the recipe, pairing it with sides, and storing leftovers.

So, let’s dive in and discover why this dish is a must-try!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Creamy: The sun-dried tomato cream sauce is indulgent yet balanced.
2. Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
3. Nutritious: Packed with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes for a boost of vitamins and flavor.
4. Customizable: Add your favorite protein or veggies to make it your own.
5. Crowd-Pleasing: A hit with both kids and adults.

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What Is Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce?

This dish is a creamy, flavorful pasta recipe that combines al dente spaghetti, fresh spinach, and a luxurious sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, cream, and Parmesan cheese. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy, umami-rich flavor, while the spinach provides a fresh, vibrant contrast.

It’s a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side, and it’s perfect for anyone looking for a quick, satisfying meal that feels special.

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Ingredients for Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

(Serves 4)

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
• 1 tbsp salt (for boiling the pasta)

For the Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil (or use oil from the sun-dried tomato jar)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Spinach:

• 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1 tbsp butter (optional, for added richness)

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese
• Toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti

1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.

2. Make the Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

1. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.
2. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
3. Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to taste.

3. Cook the Spinach

1. Wilt the Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until wilted. If desired, stir in 1 tbsp butter for added richness.

4. Combine and Serve

1. Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs if desired.
3. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Tips for the Best Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta
Cook the spaghetti al dente (firm to the bite) because it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the sauce. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and lose its texture.
Pro Tip: Reserve some pasta water before draining. The starchy water helps loosen the sauce and bind it to the pasta.

2. Balance the Sauce Consistency
The sauce should be creamy but not too thick. If it thickens too much while cooking, add a splash of the reserved pasta water or extra cream to achieve the desired consistency.
Pro Tip: Stir in the Parmesan cheese off the heat to prevent it from clumping and to maintain a smooth sauce.

3. Customize to Your Taste
Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
Add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for a heartier meal.
Pro Tip: If you’re not a fan of spinach, substitute it with other greens like kale or arugula, or add veggies like mushrooms or roasted red peppers.

These tips will help you nail this recipe and make it your own! Let me know if you need more advice. 😊

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What to Serve with Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

This dish is delicious on its own, but it pairs well with a variety of sides:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad or Caesar salad adds a light contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try zucchini, broccoli, or asparagus.

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Storing Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or water and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freezing: Freeze the sauce and cooked pasta separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding a little cream or water to refresh the sauce.
• Meal Prep: Cook the sauce and pasta ahead of time, but store them separately. Combine and reheat just before serving to maintain the best texture.

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Nutritional Information

(Per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 18g
• Carbs: 65g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 4g

Dietary Modifications:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
• Vegetarian: This recipe is naturally vegetarian.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and skip the Parmesan cheese.

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Related Recipes

1. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta: A rich and cheesy pasta dish with a garlicky twist.
2. Creamy Tomato Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Recipe, not only captivates your senses with its luscious texture and vibrant flavors but also allows for endless creativity in the kitchen.
3. Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Stuffed Chicken: Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and cheese.
4. One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta: A quick and easy pasta dish made in one pot for minimal cleanup.
5. Shrimp Scampi Pasta: Imagine a plate of perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce, with plump shrimp nestled among the strands.
6. Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Bake: A comforting baked pasta dish with creamy spinach and artichoke filling.
7. Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges Recipe: There’s something undeniably irresistible about crispy, golden potato wedges, especially when infused with bold flavors like garlic and parmesan.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dried sun-dried tomatoes in this Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce?

Yes, you can use dried sun-dried tomatoes, but they need to be rehydrated first. Soak them in warm water for 10–15 minutes until softened, then chop and add to the sauce.

2. How do I store leftovers of Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or water and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

3. Can I make Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and combine them just before serving. Reheat the sauce on the stovetop and toss with freshly warmed pasta.

4. Can I freeze Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce?

Yes, but freeze the sauce and pasta separately for the best results. The sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little cream or water to refresh the sauce.

5. Can I add other veggies to Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce?

Absolutely! Try adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and texture. You can also substitute spinach with kale or arugula if preferred.

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Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Any Occasion

• Weeknight Dinner: Quick, easy, and satisfying.
• Date Night: Impress your partner with a restaurant-quality meal at home.
• Holiday Meal: Perfect for special occasions like Christmas or Valentine’s Day.
• Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy throughout the week.

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Final Thoughts

Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a creamy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich sauce, tender pasta, and fresh spinach, it’s a meal that’s sure to impress.

Ready to try it? Grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as delicious as it is satisfying. Don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family—they’ll be asking for the recipe!

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