Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato & Spinach Spaghetti: A Restaurant-Quality Pasta at Home

Why This Recipe Will Become Your New Favorite

This sun-dried tomato cream sauce spaghetti transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal that’s:

• Ready in 30 minutes – Perfect for busy weeknights
• Creamy without being heavy – The Parmesan-heavy cream combo creates luxurious texture
• Packed with flavor – Sun-dried tomatoes add intense umami depth
• Nutritious – Fresh spinach boosts vitamins and color
• Versatile – Works with any pasta shape or protein additions

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

1. Pasta Preparation (The Foundation)

• Cook 12 oz spaghetti in well-salted boiling water (1 tbsp salt per gallon)
• Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining – this starchy liquid is gold for sauce consistency
• Tip: Time pasta to finish when sauce is nearly ready

2. Building the Flavor Base

1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in large skillet over medium
2. Sauté 4 minced garlic cloves 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t brown!)
3. Add 1 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed for best flavor)
4. Cook 2 minutes to intensify flavors

3. Creating the Luxurious Sauce

• Deglaze with ½ cup broth, simmer 5 minutes
• Stir in 1 cup heavy cream and ½ cup Parmesan
• Simmer 5-7 minutes until sauce coats spoon
• Pro Tip: Add reserved pasta water ¼ cup at a time if too thick

4. Final Assembly

1. Toss drained pasta directly in skillet
2. Fold in 4 cups fresh spinach until just wilted
3. Finish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan

Chef’s Secret Enhancements

• Flavor Boost: Add 1 tsp red pepper flakes with garlic
• Protein Option: Mix in grilled chicken or shrimp
• Vegetarian Upgrade: Use mushroom broth instead of chicken
• Texture Play: Top with toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Best served immediately – Cream sauces thicken when cooled
• Leftovers: Store in airtight container up to 3 days
• Reheating: Add splash of milk when microwaving (30 sec intervals)
• Avoid freezing – Dairy may separate upon thawing

Perfect Pairings

• Wine: Chianti Classico or Pinot Grigio
• Side: Garlic knots or roasted asparagus
• Salad: Simple arugula with lemon vinaigrette

Why This Beats Restaurant Versions

1. Higher quality ingredients – No shortcuts on Parmesan or cream
2. Customizable heat level – Adjust red pepper to taste
3. Fresh spinach retains nutrients better than pre-cooked
4. Perfect al dente texture – Restaurants often overcook pasta

“This dish proves gourmet flavor doesn’t require complicated techniques. The sun-dried tomatoes do most of the work, delivering that signature umami punch that makes every bite memorable.” – Chef Michael Romano

Final Pro Tip

For maximum flavor, use the oil from sun-dried tomato jars instead of regular olive oil when sautéing the garlic. This infused oil takes the dish to another level!

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato & Spinach Spaghetti: A Restaurant-Quality Pasta at Home

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• Author: Lara Smith
• Total Time: 30 mins

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Description

Indulge in a creamy, flavorful pasta dish with this Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce. This delightful meal combines tender spaghetti with fresh spinach and a rich sun-dried tomato cream sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner at home.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

12 oz spaghetti

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

4 cups fresh spinach

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.

Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce until well coated.

Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil.

Notes

This Spaghetti with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. The creamy sauce, fresh spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes create a delightful combination that will leave you wanting more. Enjoy this dish with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal.