Spaghetti and Spinach With Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Spaghetti with sun dried tomato cream sauce is a vibrant and creamy pasta dish that’s bursting with bold Mediterranean flavors. This quick and easy dinner comes together in under 30 minutes and combines tender spaghetti, sun dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, garlic, and a velvety Parmesan cream sauce. It’s the kind of meal that tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant — but you can make it at home with just one skillet and a handful of pantry staples.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Spaghetti with sun dried tomato cream sauce is ready in under 30 minutes
• Packed with rich, tangy flavor from the sun dried tomatoes
• Creamy, comforting, and loaded with spinach
• Simple ingredients, elegant presentation

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (use the oil from the sun dried tomatoes jar for extra flavor)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup chopped sun dried tomatoes (in oil, drained slightly)
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Cook spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Stir in sun dried tomatoes and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add spinach and sauté until wilted.
5. Pour in the cream and stir to combine. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce.
7. Add cooked spaghetti and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired sauce consistency is reached.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.

Serving Tips

Serve spaghetti with sun dried tomato cream sauce hot, garnished with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a few torn basil leaves. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a crisp arugula salad. For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken or shrimp on top.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• To reheat: Add a splash of cream or milk and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to restore creaminess.
• Freezing is not ideal due to the cream sauce, but it can be done if needed.

Timing Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Optional Variations

• Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta.
• Extra veggies: Sauté mushrooms or cherry tomatoes along with the spinach.
• Lighter version: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.
• Cheese twist: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
• Spicy kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Related Recipes

• Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
• Spinach and Artichoke Penne
• Garlic Butter Shrimp Spaghetti

Conclusion

This spaghetti with sun dried tomato cream sauce is an easy yet impressive dish full of bold flavor, creamy texture, and vibrant color. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again for quick comfort and elegance.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use another type of pasta?
A: Yes! Fettuccine, linguine, or penne all work well with this sauce.

Q2: Can I use jarred sun dried tomatoes not packed in oil?
A: You can, but you’ll need to rehydrate them in hot water for 10–15 minutes before using.

Q3: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes — use a plant-based cream and dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast.

Q4: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Yes, just thaw and squeeze out excess liquid before adding to the pan.

📖 Recipe

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