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Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach and Cream Cheese Recipe

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4.3 from 10 reviews

  • Author: Molly
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A quick and flavorful Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta recipe that combines whole wheat penne with a creamy sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, cream cheese, Parmesan, and fresh baby spinach. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal ready in just 15 minutes.

Ingredients

Paste

  • 12 oz whole wheat penne pasta
  • 1 cup reserved pasta water

Sauce

  • 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)

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Cook the whole wheat penne according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining the pasta thoroughly.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over low heat. Add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to combine flavors without burning the garlic.
  3. Melt Cream Cheese: Add cream cheese and ¾ cup of the reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir continuously over low heat until the cream cheese melts completely and creates a smooth sauce.
  4. Add Cheese and Spinach: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and baby spinach. Whisk gently until the Parmesan softens and the spinach wilts into the sauce, creating a creamy mixture.
  5. Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick or dry, add additional reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
  6. Serve: Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes if using. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • For a spicier dish, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes according to taste.
  • Use pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency; the starchy water helps create a creamy texture.
  • This recipe uses whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients but you can substitute with your preferred pasta type.
  • Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil provide the best flavor and richness for the sauce.
  • Make sure not to overcook the spinach; just allow it to wilt into the sauce for freshness and color.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://recipeglimpse.com/sun-dried-tomato-pasta-with-spinach-and-cream-cheese-recipe/