Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce – A Flavorful, Comforting Pasta Dish!

If you’re dreaming of a cozy, satisfying pasta dish that feels indulgent yet still sneaks in some greens, this Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is the recipe you need. 🍝💚 This recipe brings together tender whole-wheat spaghetti, vibrant baby spinach, and a luscious, tangy sun-dried tomato cream sauce that’s both rich and refreshing. The sauce gets its creaminess from sour cream and Parmesan, while the sun-dried tomatoes add a deep, savory flavor that balances beautifully with the garlic and onion. What’s even better? It’s a quick, one-pan wonder that comes together in about 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you crave comfort without the fuss. If you love creamy pasta dishes, you might also enjoy this Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta or this vibrant Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells. Let’s get cooking!

Produce:
5 oz baby spinach (about 4 cups packed)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 cup onion (finely diced)
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed and chopped)
Canned Goods:
1 cup vegetable or chicken broth (low-sodium)
Pasta & Grains:
8 oz whole-wheat spaghetti
Baking & Spices:
1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1/4 teaspoon salt
Dairy:
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
1/2 cup sour cream
Optional garnish:
Extra Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley
A squeeze of lemon for brightness

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add whole-wheat spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes, until softened.
Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Add the sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and stir to combine.
Pour in the broth, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Let it cook for 3–4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Reduce the heat to low.
Stir in the sour cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 5: Add Spinach

Add the baby spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring, until wilted.

Step 6: Toss the Pasta

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet.
Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon if desired.

Variations
Looking to customize your Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce? Try these tasty twists:

1. Add Protein
Stir in cooked shredded chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage.

2. Go Vegetarian
Use vegetable broth and skip any meat additions for a fully vegetarian meal.

3. Extra Creamy
Add a splash of heavy cream for an even richer sauce.

4. Low-Carb Option
Swap spaghetti for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

5. Nutty Finish
Top with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch.

6. Lemony Twist
Add zest of 1 lemon for a burst of brightness.

Storage and Reheating
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.

Microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Freezing:
Not recommended, as the dairy-based sauce may separate when thawed.

Pro Tip: Store sauce and pasta separately if you’re making ahead for better texture!

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use regular spaghetti instead of whole-wheat?
Absolutely! Regular or even gluten-free pasta will work beautifully.

2. Do I have to use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes?
Oil-packed gives the best flavor and texture, but you can rehydrate dried sun-dried tomatoes in hot water.

3. Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Use vegan sour cream, vegan Parmesan, and vegetable broth.

4. What can I substitute for sour cream?
Try Greek yogurt for a tangy alternative, or cream cheese for extra richness.

5. Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild heat from red pepper flakes, but you can adjust to taste.

6. Can I add more veggies?
Definitely! Zucchini, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers would be great additions.

7. What’s the best way to make this ahead?
Prep the sauce and store separately. Cook the pasta fresh and combine when ready to serve.

8. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding to the sauce.

9. Does this dish freeze well?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, as the creamy sauce may not hold up well to freezing.

10. What’s a good side dish for this pasta?
Serve with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted veggies for a complete meal!

Conclusion
There you have it — your new go-to comfort meal: Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce! 🍝🌿✨

It’s creamy, it’s flavorful, it’s packed with greens, and it comes together in about 30 minutes. Whether you’re feeding your family, entertaining friends, or just treating yourself to a cozy night in, this recipe is a winner every time.

Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite proteins or extra veggies, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

If you loved this recipe, be sure to try these Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta or Lemon Spinach Pasta. You’re going to love every bite!

Buon appetito! 🎉

Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce – A Flavorful, Comforting Pasta Dish!