Spaghetti Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

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A bowl of Spaghetti Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is the kind of comfort food that satisfies every craving—rich, creamy, tangy, and utterly delicious. The tender strands of spaghetti are lovingly coated in a velvety parmesan cream sauce, while vibrant spinach and chewy, tangy sun-dried tomatoes add layers of flavor and texture that elevate the dish to something truly special. It’s a wholesome yet indulgent plate of pasta that balances richness with freshness in every bite.

Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, this dish never fails to impress. The savory sun-dried tomatoes bring a bold punch of umami, beautifully contrasting the creaminess of the sauce and the earthiness of wilted spinach. The best part? It comes together in less than 30 minutes—making it a go-to for quick dinners without sacrificing flavor.

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Ingredients for Spaghetti Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 1 tbsp olive oil (from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes, if possible)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), sliced
• 3 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs (optional)
• Reserved pasta water (2–3 tbsp)

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Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water and then drain the rest. Set the pasta aside.

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Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes

In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil (preferably from the sun-dried tomato jar for extra flavor). Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Toss in the sliced sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for another 1–2 minutes until they soften slightly.

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Step 3: Add Spinach

Add the fresh baby spinach to the skillet. Stir until the spinach wilts down, which should take about 2–3 minutes. You can add a splash of reserved pasta water here if needed to help steam the spinach.

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Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine with the garlic, tomatoes, and spinach. Add in the grated parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if using), and dried Italian herbs. Stir constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth—about 3–5 minutes.

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Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat it thoroughly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.

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Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the pasta hot, garnished with extra parmesan or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an added kick. Pair it with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a satisfying and well-rounded meal.

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Storage Instructions

Spaghetti Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce stores wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

• Refrigerator: Transfer any cooled leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
• Freezing: This creamy pasta isn’t ideal for freezing due to the dairy content, which may separate when thawed. For best results, enjoy fresh or within a few days of preparation.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per Serving (based on 4 servings total)

• Calories: ~475 kcal
• Protein: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 5g
• Sodium: 360mg
  Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, fettuccine, or linguine work great. Use what you love or have on hand.

2. What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese for a lighter version.

3. Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are delicious additions for more protein.

4. Are sun-dried tomatoes necessary?

They add a tangy, rich flavor that balances the cream sauce, but you can substitute with cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers in a pinch.

5. Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, as long as your parmesan is rennet-free. Always check the label for a true vegetarian-friendly cheese.

6. Can I make it dairy-free?

Try using full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative and vegan parmesan. It changes the flavor slightly but still tastes great.

7. How do I make it spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cream sauce while it simmers.

8. What sides go well with this pasta?

A fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies make perfect sides for a complete meal.

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