Spaghetti and Spinach with Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

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Creamy, rich, and deeply satisfying, Spaghetti and Spinach with Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is your next go-to pasta dish when comfort meets gourmet. This vibrant recipe combines the silkiness of a creamy cheese sauce with the earthy punch of wilted spinach and the sweet tang of sun-dried tomatoes. The spaghetti soaks up every luxurious bit, creating a dish that feels both cozy and elevated.

Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or planning a date night meal at home, this pasta delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. It’s the kind of recipe that turns ordinary ingredients into something memorable. The cream sauce hugs each strand of spaghetti, delivering flavor in every bite. And the sun-dried tomatoes? They add just the right hit of acidity and depth. A true comfort classic with a twist.

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Ingredients for this Spaghetti and Spinach with Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ cup reserved pasta water

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Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set the spaghetti aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Spinach and Tomatoes

Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, stirring often.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked spaghetti and reserved pasta water into the skillet. Toss well to coat all the pasta in the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

Plate the pasta warm, garnished with extra black pepper or Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute with frozen spinach. Just thaw and squeeze out the excess water before adding it to the skillet.

What pasta shapes work well besides spaghetti?

Fettuccine, linguine, or even penne can hold the sauce nicely. Choose your favorite or what you have on hand.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

It already is vegetarian, as long as you use vegetarian Parmesan or a similar cheese substitute.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crumbled Italian sausage would pair beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Is this dish spicy?

Only slightly, due to the optional red pepper flakes. Omit them if you prefer a milder taste.

Can I make it ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can make the sauce a day ahead and store it separately. Reheat gently and mix with freshly cooked pasta.

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