Linguine with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Okay, pasta lovers—get ready, because this dish is creamy, dreamy, and packed with flavor. Linguine with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is one of those meals that feels indulgent but comes together so easily, you’ll wonder why it hasn’t been in your rotation all along. Imagine twirls of tender linguine coated in a velvety garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, flecked with ribbons of wilted spinach and sweet, tangy sun-dried tomatoes. It’s rich without being heavy, fancy without being fussy, and—trust me—everyone at the table is going to ask for seconds. This one’s a pasta night game-changer.

Why You’ll Love Linguine with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Creamy & Flavor-Packed: The sauce is silky and garlicky, with bursts of tangy sun-dried tomatoes that balance the richness.
One-Pan Sauce Magic: Cook the sauce while your pasta boils—hello, easy weeknight dinner.
Impressively Easy: It looks and tastes gourmet, but the steps are straightforward and beginner-friendly.
Customizable: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms to make it heartier.
Great for Leftovers: It reheats beautifully and makes a delicious next-day lunch.

Ingredients in Linguine with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

This pasta dish is all about bold flavor with minimal effort—here’s what brings it to life:

Linguine: A long, flat pasta that holds onto the creamy sauce like a pro.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes (in oil): Intensely sweet and tangy with a chewy texture—little flavor bombs in every bite.
Fresh Spinach: Wilted into the sauce, it adds color, nutrition, and just the right amount of earthiness.
Garlic: A key flavor builder—don’t skimp!
Shallots or Onion: Milder and slightly sweet, they balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
Heavy Cream: Makes the sauce silky smooth and indulgent.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds that irresistible salty, nutty finish.
Olive Oil (from the sun-dried tomatoes): Infused with flavor—perfect for sautéing.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring it all together.
Optional Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For a subtle kick of heat, if you like it spicy.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Boil the Pasta: Cook linguine in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
Sauté Aromatics: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté shallots and garlic until fragrant and softened—about 2–3 minutes.
Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute to infuse the oil with flavor.
Pour in the Cream: Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
Add Spinach: Toss in the spinach and stir until wilted. This should take just a minute or two.
Stir in Cheese: Add grated Parmesan and stir until melted and combined into the sauce.
Toss with Pasta: Add cooked linguine and a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss until everything is coated and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Serve Hot: Garnish with more Parmesan, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories: 520 per serving
Total Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 480mg
Total Carbohydrates: 52g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 6g
Protein: 17g
Calcium: 20% DV
Iron: 15% DV
Potassium: 550mg

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Linguine with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

With Garlic Bread: Mop up that luscious sauce with warm, crusty garlic bread.
Topped with Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: Add protein to make it a full meal—perfect for guests or leftovers.
With a Side Salad: Something light and crisp like arugula with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness.
As a Fancy But Easy Date Night Dish: Light a candle, pour some wine, and you’re good to go.
Sprinkled with Fresh Basil or Parsley: Adds color and a touch of herbaceous brightness.

Additional Tips

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly al dente is best—it’ll finish cooking when tossed with the sauce.
Use Reserved Pasta Water: It helps the sauce cling to the noodles and keeps everything smooth.
Swap in Dairy-Free Options: Use a plant-based cream and cheese to make it dairy-free.
Add Extra Veggies: Mushrooms, zucchini, or even peas make great add-ins.
Double the Recipe: This pasta stores great, so consider making extra for future meals.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A1: Absolutely! Fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne all work well in this dish.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes—just store it in the fridge and reheat with a splash of milk or pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Q3: How long does this last in the fridge?
A3: Up to 4 days in an airtight container. It reheats beautifully!

Q4: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
A4: Yep—just thaw and squeeze out the excess moisture before adding to the sauce.

Q5: What can I use instead of heavy cream?
A5: Half-and-half, whole milk with a bit of butter, or a dairy-free cream alternative all work.

Q6: Can I make this gluten-free?
A6: Totally—just use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Q7: How do I make it spicier?
A7: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or even a splash of hot sauce.

Q8: Can I add meat to this dish?
A8: Yes! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy pancetta are all amazing here.

Q9: Can I freeze this pasta?
A9: Cream-based sauces don’t always freeze perfectly, but it can work in a pinch. Reheat gently with extra liquid.

Q10: What wine pairs well with this dish?
A10: A crisp Pinot Grigio or buttery Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Conclusion

Linguine with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is what weeknight dinner dreams are made of—fast, flavorful, and fancy-feeling without the fuss. It brings together all the things we love: creamy comfort, bold flavor, and that perfect pasta texture. Whether you’re serving it to impress guests or just treating yourself to something cozy and satisfying, this dish hits all the right notes. One bite, and you’ll be hooked—promise.

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