Few dishes strike the perfect balance between comfort food and elegance quite like Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce. This recipe is proof that simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can deliver restaurant-quality results right from your own kitchen. Creamy, savory, slightly tangy, and loaded with fresh spinach, this pasta is ideal for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or even a casual dinner party when you want something impressive without the stress.

This creamy spinach pasta brings together tender strands of spaghetti, vibrant leafy greens, and rich sun-dried tomatoes in a velvety cream sauce that clings beautifully to every bite. Whether you’re a vegetarian looking for a satisfying meatless meal or simply craving a comforting bowl of pasta, this dish checks all the boxes.

Why This Pasta Recipe Works So Well

The magic of this dish lies in contrast and balance. The cream sauce provides richness, while sun-dried tomatoes add a deep, concentrated tomato flavor that cuts through the heaviness. Fresh spinach brings brightness, color, and nutrition, while garlic and olive oil form the aromatic base that ties everything together.

Unlike overly complicated cream sauces, this one comes together quickly and doesn’t rely on flour or roux. The sauce thickens naturally as it simmers, making it approachable even for beginner cooks.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Spaghetti
Olive oil
Garlic cloves, minced
Sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
Fresh spinach
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Salt
Black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional)

Each ingredient plays a clear role, and there’s nothing unnecessary here. That’s part of what makes this dish so reliable.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a small cup of pasta water before draining.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1–2 minutes to release their flavor.
Pour in the heavy cream and reduce heat slightly. Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Add fresh spinach and stir until wilted.
Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Add the cooked spaghetti directly to the skillet and toss until fully coated. Use reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
Finish with freshly grated Parmesan and serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Creamy Spinach Pasta

Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
Salt your pasta water generously — this is your only chance to season the pasta itself.
Add pasta water slowly to control the sauce consistency without thinning it too much.
Grate your own Parmesan for smoother melting and better flavor.

Easy Variations to Try

Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu.
Extra veggies: Mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or zucchini work beautifully.
Lighter option: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a cashew cream alternative.
Spicy version: Increase red pepper flakes or add chili oil.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A simple sparkling water or light white wine pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.

A Little Cultural Context

Creamy pasta sauces are often associated with Italian-American cuisine rather than traditional Italian cooking. This dish embraces that comforting, indulgent style while keeping ingredients fresh and balanced — a modern home-cooking classic.

Why You’ll Make This Again and Again

This is the kind of recipe that becomes part of your weekly rotation. It’s fast, flexible, and satisfying without feeling heavy or boring. Plus, it reheats well, making it ideal for leftovers.