Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Al dente spaghetti is tossed with a luscious creamy sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan. Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition, balancing the richness. It’s a comforting pasta dish that feels indulgent but is simple to prepare in under 30 minutes.
Prep: 10 minutes
Cooking: 20 minutes
Total: 30 minutes
Servings:4
Ingredients
12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
2 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter)
½ cup vegetable or chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cups fresh spinach
½ tsp dried Italian seasoning
Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Red pepper flakes
Instructions
Cook spaghetti
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
Saute aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, saute 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
Make the cream sauce
Stir in broth and cream, bring to a gentle simmer.
Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer 3–4 minutes to thicken slightly.
Add spinach & cheese
Stir in spinach and cook until just wilted.
Mix in Parmesan until creamy and smooth.
Toss pasta
Add drained spaghetti to the skillet. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water a splash at a time until sauce clings beautifully.
Serve
Garnish with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes & Tips
Make it lighter → Use evaporated milk instead of cream.
Vegan option → Use coconut cream + nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Protein boost → Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans.
Extra flavor → Blend part of the sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce for a deeper tomato base.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: The sauce can be made 1 day in advance. Store separately and toss with fresh pasta before serving.
Q: Can I use other pasta shapes?
A: Yes! Penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni work great.
Q: Can I use dried sun-dried tomatoes instead of jarred?
A: Yes, but rehydrate them in hot water or broth before chopping.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~480
Protein: 16g
Carbs: 60g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 6g