A rich, creamy Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is the perfect combination of flavors that will elevate your next dinner. Tender fettuccine pasta is coated in a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce, loaded with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and fresh spinach for a satisfying meal that’s ready in just 25 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy – The sauce, made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, gives the pasta a comforting, velvety texture.
- Quick and easy – With just a handful of ingredients and 25 minutes, you can enjoy this restaurant-quality dish at home.
- Perfect balance of flavors – The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy richness, while the fresh spinach brings a burst of color and a hint of freshness.
- Customizable – Add chicken, shrimp, or your favorite veggies to personalize this dish.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions
1. Cook the Fettuccine:
- Cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
2. Sauté Garlic:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce becomes too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Season and Toss:
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce, tossing well to ensure each strand is coated in the creamy sauce.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories: 450 kcal per serving
Variations
- Add Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon for extra protein and flavor.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles and add more veggies like mushrooms or roasted bell peppers.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to give the sauce a little kick.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to its creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can swap the fettuccine for penne, spaghetti, or any other pasta shape you prefer.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli to enhance the dish.
How do I make this dairy-free?
You can use coconut cream in place of heavy cream, and a dairy-free Parmesan cheese to keep it dairy-free.
Conclusion
This Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is the ultimate comfort food that’s quick, creamy, and full of flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish combines the richness of Parmesan and sun-dried tomatoes with the freshness of spinach for a balanced, satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit!