This easy spaghetti dish is a delightful mix of flavors! With creamy sun-dried tomato sauce and fresh spinach, it’s a tasty meal that feels fancy without much fuss.
You’ll love how quick it is to whip up! I like to add a sprinkle of cheese on top for extra yumminess. Perfect for when you want a comforting dinner without a lot of work!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: The classic choice for this dish! You can swap it for gluten-free pasta or whole wheat for a healthier option. I prefer spaghetti because it holds the sauce well, but feel free to use any pasta shape you like.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Using those packed in oil adds great flavor! If you can’t find them, try fresh diced tomatoes or even roasted red peppers as a substitute. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change a bit.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce a rich texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream. That said, the richness really enhances the dish, so use what you prefer!
Spinach: Fresh spinach is perfect for wilting into the sauce. You can easily replace it with kale or arugula if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to cook the kale a bit longer to soften it.
How Do You Get the Cream Sauce Just Right?
Creating a creamy sauce is all about controlling the heat and timing. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start with medium heat to sauté onions and garlic. This releases their flavors beautifully.
- When adding cream, lower the heat to avoid boiling, which can cause separation. Gently simmer instead.
- If the sauce looks too thick, use reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency; add a little at a time until it’s creamy yet flows.
- Always keep stirring after adding cheese; it helps create that smooth, luscious texture.
Easy Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes (preferably packed in oil), chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional), to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy spaghetti recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend around 10 minutes boiling the pasta and cooking the sauce, plus a few minutes for prep time. Quick and delicious—a perfect weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Remember to save about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta!
2. Sauté the Onions:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes or until it becomes softened and slightly translucent. This step adds so much flavor!
3. Add Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Let them cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is fragrant and mixed together nicely.
4. Make the Cream Sauce:
Now, reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir everything to combine, then let it gently simmer for 2-3 minutes. This will allow the sauce to thicken a little.
5. Add Cheese for Creaminess:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and watch it melt into the sauce, creating a creamy texture. If it seems too thick, just add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you get the consistency you like!
6. Incorporate the Spinach:
Add the fresh spinach leaves to the sauce and cook them until they wilt, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat!
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the creamy sauce, ensuring all the noodles are well coated. Heat it for an additional minute for all the flavors to blend.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious spaghetti immediately, topped with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a touch of freshly ground black pepper for that final flourish. Enjoy your lovely creamy spaghetti with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes!
FAQ for Easy Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber, while gluten-free pasta works well for those with dietary restrictions. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for cooking time, as it may vary.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative like coconut cream or almond milk. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste will change slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover spaghetti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce as needed.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! You can enhance the dish by adding vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just sauté them along with the onions in the beginning for the best flavor.
