Spaghetti Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Spaghetti spinach with sun-dried tomatoes was the result of a spontaneous craving for something creamy but still vibrant and full of flavor. I remember rummaging through my pantry one afternoon and finding a half-used jar of sun-dried tomatoes. I had some fresh spinach on hand and decided to let those two ingredients shine in a rich, velvety sauce over spaghetti. The first bite instantly made me feel like I was enjoying a cozy dinner in a small Italian café.

What I love most about this dish is how quickly it comes together while still tasting like something you’d order at a restaurant. The sun-dried tomatoes bring a bold, tangy-sweet flavor that cuts beautifully through the creamy sauce, and the spinach adds freshness and color. It’s a simple yet impressive meal I turn to again and again.

Ingredients :

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Spaghetti – The perfect pasta for soaking up every drop of creamy sauce
• Sun-dried tomatoes – Adds a bold, tangy flavor and chewy texture
• Fresh spinach – Wilts down beautifully and adds vibrant color
• Garlic – Enhances the sauce with aromatic depth
• Heavy cream – Creates a luxurious, creamy base
• Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty richness to the sauce
• Olive oil – Used to sauté the garlic and tomatoes
• Salt and pepper – For seasoning and balance
• Red pepper flakes – Optional, for a little kick of heat

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot – To cook the spaghetti to al dente perfection
• Skillet or sauté pan – For building the sauce and combining ingredients
• Strainer – To drain the cooked pasta
• Cutting board – For chopping sun-dried tomatoes and garlic
• Sharp knife – Helps with quick and even prep
• Tongs or pasta fork – To toss and serve the pasta easily
• Grater – For fresh Parmesan if using a block

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

I start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking the spaghetti until al dente. Once cooked, I drain it and set it aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes

In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Then, I add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1–2 minutes to soften them up.

Step 3: Add Cream and Cheese

I pour in the heavy cream and let it warm through, then stir in the grated Parmesan until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, I add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 4: Add Spinach

Next, I toss in the fresh spinach and stir until it wilts completely into the sauce.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

I add the cooked spaghetti into the skillet and toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated with sauce and mixed with the spinach and tomatoes.

Step 6: Season and Serve

I season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if I’m in the mood for a little heat. Then I plate it up and sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top.

Tips

If you want to lighten it up, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. I’ve also made it with gluten-free pasta and it works beautifully. For more protein, you can add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp. And if you’re short on fresh spinach, frozen spinach works too just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture.

Ways to Serve

Serve with garlic bread for a full Italian-inspired meal

Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced dinner

Add grilled chicken or shrimp on top for extra protein

Garnish with toasted pine nuts or fresh basil for extra texture and flavor

Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine for a cozy evening in

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use jarred Alfredo sauce instead of making the cream sauce?

Yes, if you’re short on time, jarred Alfredo works. Just add the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes directly to the sauce as it warms.

Can I make Spaghetti Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomatoes ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well. Store in an airtight container and reheat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

What’s the best substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese can work in a pinch. Coconut cream can also be used for a dairy-free version.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Definitely! Fettuccine, linguine, or even penne all work beautifully in this recipe.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this Spaghetti Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomatoes a try it’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with someone special, it’s a dish that always feels like a little indulgence.

Happy Cooking!

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