Name: Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach and Cream Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz whole wheat penne pasta; 1 cup reserved pasta water; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 oz (about ½ cup) sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 oz cream cheese; 2 oz (about ½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups loosely packed baby spinach; ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 10 reviews

If you are craving a pasta dish that perfectly balances bold flavors with creamy indulgence, this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach and Cream Cheese Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a vibrant, comforting meal that combines the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, the fresh earthiness of spinach, and the luscious, velvety texture that cream cheese brings. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting friends, this recipe delivers impressive taste and satisfying warmth without complicating your time in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows six clear glass bowls placed on a white marbled surface. The largest bowl at the top center is filled with dry penne pasta, which is orange in color and fills the bowl completely. Below it to the left is a smaller bowl filled with fresh green spinach leaves. To the right of the spinach is a small bowl containing a block of white cream cheese. In the center below the pasta is a small bowl filled with dark red sun-dried tomatoes in oil. Further down on the left is a bowl with pale yellow shaved cheese. On the bottom right, slightly separated, are two small bowls — one with light yellow minced garlic and the other with golden yellow olive oil. The bowls are neatly arranged and the white marbled background gives a clean and fresh look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started with this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach and Cream Cheese Recipe is as simple as gathering a handful of everyday ingredients that each play a vital role. From the nutty depth of whole wheat pasta to the tangy punch of Parmesan, every element works together harmoniously to create a dish bursting with flavor, texture, and color.

12 oz whole wheat penne pasta: Adds a hearty, nutty base packed with fiber and texture to carry the sauce beautifully.
1 cup reserved pasta water: Essential for adjusting sauce consistency and helping it cling perfectly to the pasta.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a silky background and enhances the flavors of the garlic and tomatoes.
4 oz sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil: Brings a sweetly tangy, chewy burst that’s the star ingredient of this dish.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth and savory richness to the pasta sauce.
4 oz cream cheese: Gives the sauce its luscious, creamy texture and mild tanginess that balances the tomatoes.
2 oz (about ½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses nutty, salty flavor that complements the cream cheese and brightens the sauce.
2 cups loosely packed baby spinach: Brings vibrant color, freshness, and a tender bite to the dish.
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle kick of heat for those who like a little spice.

How to Make Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach and Cream Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your whole wheat penne according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. Don’t forget to reserve one cup of the pasta water before draining—that starchy water is a secret weapon for bringing your sauce and pasta together beautifully.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

In a large skillet over low heat, warm the olive oil before adding the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Let them sauté gently for about two minutes, stirring frequently to release fragrant aromas and soften the tomatoes, creating a flavorful foundation for the sauce.

Step 3: Melt in the Cream Cheese

Lower the heat and add the cream cheese along with three-quarters of your reserved pasta water. Stir carefully as the cream cheese slowly melts into a smooth, velvety sauce that will coat every piece of pasta with irresistible creaminess.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Spinach

Next, whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese and toss in the baby spinach. Continue stirring until the cheese melts mostly and the spinach wilts slightly, adding vibrant green color and a fresh, earthy note to the sauce.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until each penne is evenly coated with that rich, creamy sauce. If you find the sauce a bit thick, easily loosen it by stirring in the remaining pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. For an extra flair, top it off with additional Parmesan and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a subtle heat.

How to Serve Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach and Cream Cheese Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with creamy penne pasta mixed with green spinach leaves and bits of sun-dried tomatoes, all coated in a light beige sauce. Around the bowl, there are small glass bowls containing white cheese flakes, red chili flakes, and red pepper oil. The scene is set on a surface with a white marbled texture, and a green cloth napkin is placed near the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your serving, fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley add a fresh herbal aroma and pop of green. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few toasted pine nuts can also bring delightful texture and richness.

Side Dishes

This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or warm, crusty baguette slices are also fantastic for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach and Cream Cheese Recipe in shallow bowls topped with a generous shaving of Parmesan and a twist of freshly ground black pepper. Consider layering it in glass jars for a cute picnic or lunchbox presentation that’s as attractive as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any uneaten pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store it separately from extra cheese or garnishes to maintain freshness.

Freezing

While cream cheese-based pasta dishes freeze best if eaten fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to one month. Use freezer-safe containers and note that the texture may slightly change upon thawing.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess and prevent the sauce from drying out. Microwave reheating is possible but stirring halfway through helps heat the pasta evenly.

FAQs

Can I use dried sun-dried tomatoes instead of oil-packed?

Yes! If you use dried sun-dried tomatoes, rehydrate them in warm water for about 10 minutes before cooking to restore their tenderness and flavor. You might want to add a bit more olive oil to compensate for the lack of oil from the packed tomatoes.

Is whole wheat penne essential for the texture?

Whole wheat penne adds a wonderful nutty flavor and more fiber, but you can absolutely substitute with regular penne or other pasta shapes depending on your preference or pantry availability.

Can I omit the cream cheese for a lighter sauce?

You can substitute cream cheese with a lighter option like part-skim ricotta or Greek yogurt, but keep in mind the sauce will be slightly less creamy and rich. Adjust seasoning accordingly for taste balance.

How spicy is the crushed red pepper in this recipe?

The ¼ teaspoon adds just a gentle warmth that complements the dish. You can skip it entirely or increase the amount if you enjoy a more pronounced kick.

What wine pairs well with Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach and Cream Cheese Recipe?

This pasta’s creamy and tangy flavors pair beautifully with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Grigio, which both cut through the richness and refresh the palate.

Final Thoughts

This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach and Cream Cheese Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that’s surprisingly simple yet packed with flavors that make you want to eat it again and again. It’s perfect for busy nights or sharing with friends. I encourage you to try it out and savor the creamy, tangy, and fresh combination that never fails to impress!