Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta

Name: Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 250g pasta of your choice; 100g fresh spinach; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 200ml heavy cream; 50g grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Rustic Ideas

I absolutely love how this Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta brings a touch of indulgence to our family meals. Pasta is always a favorite in our house, but this creamy spinach sauce elevates it to another level. With every bite, the richness of the cream and the freshness of the spinach create a delightful harmony. Whether it's a lazy Sunday or a special occasion, I find myself reaching for this recipe. It’s easy to make, yet flavorsome enough to impress anyone who joins us at the table.

Created by

Unity Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:05:34.829Z

When I first created this dish, I wanted to combine the creamy richness of pasta with the earthy flavors of spinach. The idea of using fresh ingredients made all the difference in bringing this dish to life. The creaminess pairs beautifully with sautéed garlic, which adds depth to every mouthful.

This recipe also reminded me that sometimes simplicity is key. By using just a few high-quality ingredients, we managed to produce a comforting meal that was both satisfying and vibrant. Trust me, once you try this creamy spinach sauce, it’ll become a staple in your cooking repertoire!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Velvety texture that wraps around al dente pasta
Fresh, vibrant flavor from sautéed spinach and garlic
Quick and easy, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of pasta is crucial in this Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta. While I typically use fettuccine for its ability to hold the sauce well, feel free to experiment with penne or rotini for added texture. Just ensure that it's cooked al dente, as this will provide a satisfying bite and prevent it from getting mushy when mixed with the sauce.

Fresh spinach is another star ingredient in this dish, contributing both flavor and nutrition. You can substitute it with kale or Swiss chard, but be aware that they may require slightly longer cooking times to become tender. Always wash your greens thoroughly to get rid of any grit, and consider briefly sautéing them to enhance their flavor before adding the cream.

Perfecting the Sauce

When making the sauce, pay attention to the consistency of the heavy cream. You want it to be thick enough to coat the pasta but still pourable. If you find the sauce is too thick, a splash of pasta cooking water can help loosen it up without sacrificing flavor. Additionally, continuously stirring as you add the Parmesan ensures it melts evenly, creating a luscious, creamy texture.

Timing is key when combining the pasta and sauce. After adding the cooked pasta to the skillet, give it a gentle toss for about two minutes over low heat to let the flavors meld. This not only helps the pasta absorb the creamy sauce but also ensures it’s warmed through. Keep an eye on the heat to avoid scorching the sauce.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to whip up this delicious pasta:

Ingredients

250g pasta of your choice
100g fresh spinach
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
200ml heavy cream
50g grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready before cooking to streamline the process!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a quick and easy creamy pasta:

Cook the pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned, about 1-2 minutes.

Add spinach

Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes.

Make the sauce

Reduce the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine, then add the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to thicken.

Combine pasta and sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the creamy spinach sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes until everything is heated through.

Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired!

Pro Tips

For a little extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also enhance the dish's flavor.

Variations and Add-Ins

This creamy spinach pasta can be easily diversified with additional ingredients. For protein, consider adding grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy bacon. If you want a vegetarian protein boost, chickpeas or white beans can add heartiness without altering the rich flavor profile of the dish.

For those craving a little spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a delightful heat. Alternatively, a sprinkle of nutmeg while simmering the sauce can add a warm, subtle depth that complements the cream beautifully. Each variation allows you to tailor the dish to suit your family's preferences.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan on low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce, as it may thicken in the fridge. Stir frequently to avoid sticking, and keep an eye on the temperature to preserve the creamy texture.

Freezing is also an option, but it's worth noting that the cream may change in texture after thawing. If you do freeze it, consider leaving the cream out until you reheat the dish. This allows you to freshen it up and maintain a luscious consistency. It’s an excellent way to ensure you have a comforting meal ready whenever you crave it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just thaw and drain it before adding it to the recipe.

→ What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Any pasta type you enjoy will work, but I recommend fettuccine or penne for the best sauce coverage.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian, just ensure your cheese is non-animal rennet based if needed.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk.