Name: Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Creamy Parmesan and Spinach Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces uncooked pasta; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/2 tablespoon flour; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes; 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream; 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups packed fresh baby spinach; Salt and pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 15 reviews

If you’re searching for a dish that perfectly balances vibrant flavors, creamy textures, and wholesome greens, look no further than this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Creamy Parmesan and Spinach Recipe. It’s a heartwarming meal that effortlessly brings together the tangy richness of sun-dried tomatoes, the comforting creaminess of parmesan sauce, and the fresh pop of spinach, creating a symphony of tastes that feels both indulgent and nourishing. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or sharing with friends, this recipe is guaranteed to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white-handled black pan sits on a white marbled surface, holding a creamy sauce with a smooth, light yellow texture mixed with herbs, topped with a small mound of dark red sun-dried tomatoes in the center. The second image shows the same pan filled with the creamy sauce now containing visible wilted green spinach leaves, scattered sun-dried tomatoes, and topped with an even layer of pale yellow tube pasta resting evenly over the sauce and greens. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Creamy Parmesan and Spinach Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a special role, contributing unique flavors, textures, and colors that make the dish truly unforgettable. From the buttery base to the bright freshness of spinach, every component works together in perfect harmony.

8 ounces uncooked pasta: Choose your favorite shape; penne or fusilli work wonderfully to hold the creamy sauce.
2 tablespoons butter: Provides a rich, silky foundation for the sauce’s flavor.
1/2 tablespoon flour: Helps thicken the sauce to just the right consistency.
3 cloves garlic (minced): Adds aromatic warmth and depth to the sauce.
1/2 cup chicken broth: Infuses savory notes and enhances the sauce’s body.
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Brings a subtle tang and complexity.
1 teaspoon lemon juice: Brightens the flavor profile and balances the richness.
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A classic herb blend for that signature Mediterranean touch.
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes: Packed with intense tomato flavor, they are the star ingredient here.
3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream: Creates the luscious, creamy texture you crave in every bite.
1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Adds savory umami and a melty finish to the sauce.
2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach: Brings freshness, color, and a gentle earthiness.
Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.

How to Make Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Creamy Parmesan and Spinach Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. This ensures the pasta cooks evenly and develops just the right amount of bite, or al dente. Cooking the pasta now lets you focus on building the sauce fresh and hot while it drains, so keep a splash of that pasta water handy to adjust your sauce consistency later if needed.

Step 2: Create the Flavorful Butter Roux

While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour and minced garlic. Cook this mixture for about 30 seconds to toast the flour lightly and release the garlic’s aroma—this is the magical base that thickens your sauce and infuses it with enticing fragrance.

Step 3: Build the Tangy and Herbaceous Sauce

Whisk in the chicken broth, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning. Cooking this mixture down until it reduces by half concentrates the flavors and creates a rich, slightly thickened base for the upcoming creamy components. The mustard and lemon juice add the perfect layers of brightness and depth here.

Step 4: Enrich with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cream

Pour in the sun-dried tomatoes and heavy cream, allowing the sauce to bubble gently for about five minutes. This step lets the tomatoes rehydrate slightly while infusing the cream with their intense, sometimes sweet-tart flavor. The sauce transforms into a velvety dream that’s brimming with character.

Step 5: Incorporate Parmesan Cheese and Spinach

Stir the freshly grated parmesan cheese in until melted and fully incorporated, which thickens the sauce further and adds a savory punch. Then, toss in the fresh baby spinach. The residual heat will wilt the greens down pleasantly, contributing vibrant color and a fresh, mild earthiness that perfectly balances the rich sauce.

Step 6: Combine and Finish with Seasoning

Finally, add your cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing everything together to ensure each strand is luxuriously coated. If the sauce seems too thick, splash in a little reserved pasta water to loosen it. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking, and dive right into this comforting, sumptuous meal.

How to Serve Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Creamy Parmesan and Spinach Recipe

The dish shows a bowl filled with short tube-shaped pasta, creamy white sauce coating each piece. Mixed throughout are bright green spinach leaves and strips of reddish-brown sun-dried tomatoes. The pasta and sauce look smooth and glossy, sprinkled with finely grated pale yellow cheese and small black pepper flakes. The bowl is white and sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Consider sprinkling extra parmesan cheese on top along with some freshly cracked black pepper for a bold finish. A few fresh basil leaves or a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil can elevate the dish’s aroma and add a lovely herbal note. These simple touches make every serving feel like a special occasion.

Side Dishes

This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Creamy Parmesan and Spinach Recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to contrast the creamy sauce. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is also perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce and adds a gratifying crunch to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this pasta in elegant shallow bowls and garnish with colorful cherry tomatoes for an extra pop of color and freshness. Alternatively, try plating it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp if you want to turn it into a more substantial entree. Presentation with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts adds subtle texture and a nutty twist your guests will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Creamy Parmesan and Spinach Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, making it a convenient and delicious option for quick meals throughout the week.

Freezing

While the sauce is rich and creamy, it can be frozen for longer storage. Place the pasta in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to two months. Keep in mind that the texture of the spinach may soften upon thawing, but the dish will still remain flavorful and satisfying.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to help revive the creamy sauce. Stir frequently for even heating, or microwave in short bursts to avoid overheating and curdling the cream. This method helps maintain the luscious texture you enjoyed the first time.

FAQs

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Absolutely! Vegetable broth works wonderfully and keeps this dish vegetarian-friendly while still delivering plenty of flavor to the sauce.

What’s the best type of pasta for this recipe?

Penne, fusilli, or rigatoni are excellent choices as their shapes hold the creamy sauce well, but feel free to use your favorite pasta to make it your own.

Can I substitute heavy cream with a lighter option?

You can try half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream, but keep in mind the sauce may not be quite as rich and luscious as with heavy cream.

Are sun-dried tomatoes always dry, or can they be packed in oil?

Either works, but if you use ones packed in oil, drain them well to avoid excess greasiness in the sauce. Dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes offer a more concentrated flavor that shines beautifully here.

Is it okay to add protein to this pasta?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy tofu make great additions that complement the flavors without overpowering the creamy sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Creamy Parmesan and Spinach Recipe is a delightful blend of rich, tangy, and fresh ingredients that come together effortlessly in just 30 minutes. I encourage you to give it a try — it’s one of those recipes that feels special without fuss, perfect for sharing warmth and flavor with those you love. Once you make it, I promise it will become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection!