If you’re looking for a pasta dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing, the Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe is an absolute must-try. This recipe beautifully marries the earthiness of baby spinach with the deep, tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, all enveloped in a luxuriously creamy sauce that clings lovingly to every strand of whole-wheat spaghetti. It’s an easy, flavorful way to elevate your weeknight dinners or impress guests with a vibrant and comforting plate that feels special yet straightforward. Once you make this, it will likely become one of your go-to meals for how effortlessly it delivers remarkable taste and texture harmony.

Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe plays a star role, combining to create layers of flavor and appealing color. From the tender baby spinach to the rich sun-dried tomatoes and creamy sour cream, each component adds something unique to make this dish unforgettable.

8 ounces whole-wheat spaghetti: Provides a nutty flavor and hearty texture, plus extra fiber for a wholesome meal.
5 ounces baby spinach (coarsely chopped): Adds vibrant color and a fresh, slightly earthy taste that balances the richness.
½ cup slivered oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes: Brings concentrated sweetness and a tangy depth that elevates the cream sauce.
1 tablespoon oil from the sun-dried tomato jar: Intensifies tomato flavor and adds a subtle fruity richness to the sauce.
½ cup halved, thinly sliced onion: Adds a mild sweetness and pleasant crunch when sautéed.
3 cloves garlic (minced): Provides aromatic warmth and a flavorful base for the sauce.
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper: Gives a gentle kick that livens up the creamy elements.
¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors perfectly.
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds mild heat and complexity.
1 cup low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth: Helps create a luscious sauce while keeping it light and savory.
½ cup sour cream: The star of creaminess here, it makes the sauce smooth and tangy without overwhelming.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty, salty depth that complements the tomato and spinach beautifully.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds a silky finish and richness to the sauce that rounds out all the flavors.

How to Make Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

Start by placing the chopped baby spinach in a large colander set over the sink. This simple step sets you up to let the hot pasta water wilt the spinach just right, preserving its vibrant color and fresh flavor without overcooking.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large saucepan of water to a vigorous boil and add your whole-wheat spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions for al dente texture; typically around 8 to 10 minutes. Then, drain the pasta directly over the colander of spinach, allowing the residual heat to gently wilt the greens while saving on cleanup.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Heat the tablespoon of sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the sliced onions and sun-dried tomatoes, stirring them gently for about 3 minutes. This step softens the onions to sweet perfection and awakens the deep flavors of those concentrated tomatoes.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Spices

Stir in the minced garlic, crushed red pepper, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture cook for about a minute until fragrant, giving the sauce its warm, spicy backbone that perfectly complements the creaminess to come.

Step 5: Reduce with Broth

Turn the heat up to medium-high, pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and let it cook until the liquid reduces by half—about two minutes. This reduction intensifies the flavors and creates a concentrated base for the sauce.

Step 6: Stir in Creamy Ingredients

Add the sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and butter to the skillet. Stir continuously until everything melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. This luscious mixture brings together tanginess, saltiness, and richness in perfect harmony.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Spinach with Sauce

Carefully add the drained spaghetti and wilted spinach to the skillet. Toss everything thoroughly, ensuring every strand of spaghetti and leaf of spinach slicks with the delicious sun-dried tomato cream sauce.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Your dish is ready to be plated and enjoyed immediately. That first bite offers so much—creamy, tangy, slightly spicy, and remarkably fresh all at once!

How to Serve Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation and add an extra flavor dimension, consider garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for added color and herbaceous brightness, or even a few toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch. These simple touches take the dish from homey to restaurant-worthy in seconds.

Side Dishes

This vibrant pasta pairs wonderfully with a light side to balance the creamy richness. Crisp mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette, roasted seasonal vegetables, or even a garlic butter breadstick make perfect companions. Each side dish adds variety in texture and taste without overwhelming the star—the spaghetti in sun-dried tomato cream sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fresh take, try serving this recipe in elegant pasta bowls with a thoughtful drizzle of extra sun-dried tomato oil on top. Alternatively, toss the finished pasta with grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp to transform it into a heartier entrée. You can also plate it as a bed for roasted vegetables or add a soft poached egg on top to create a beautiful brunch dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, transfer them into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. The dish will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the spinach and sauce might continue to soften as it sits, so it’s best enjoyed within this time frame.

Freezing

This recipe freezes reasonably well, though the texture of the spinach may change slightly after thawing. To freeze, place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to help revive the creamy sauce’s smooth texture. Stir frequently to prevent sticking, and avoid overheating to keep the flavors bright and fresh.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

While fresh tomatoes are delicious, they lack the concentrated sweetness and tang that sun-dried tomatoes bring to this sauce. If you use fresh, try roasting or slow-cooking them first to develop deeper flavor.

Is there a dairy-free option for the cream and cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute sour cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, by swapping the sour cream and Parmesan with plant-based alternatives and using vegetable broth, you can enjoy a fully vegan version that still packs plenty of flavor.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

Whole-wheat spaghetti is perfect here for its nuttiness and texture, but feel free to experiment with gluten-free or other long pasta shapes like fettuccine or linguine.

How spicy is the dish?

The crushed red pepper adds just a gentle warmth, making it accessible to most palates. You can always adjust the amount up or down to suit your spice preference.

Final Thoughts

This Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe is one of those rare dishes that’s simple to pull together but delivers big on flavor and comfort. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, it offers a satisfying meal that’s as pretty as it is delicious. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes a beloved classic in your recipe collection!