There’s just something magical about pasta night, isn’t there? Especially when it involves a creamy, dreamy sauce that hugs every strand of linguine just right. This dish is like a little Italian vacation on a plate — full of bold, rich flavors, tender pasta, and that irresistible creamy texture. If you’re craving something comforting yet a little fancy (without the stress), trust me, this one’s a game-changer. It’s quick enough for weeknights, elegant enough for guests, and 100% delicious.

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

Name: Linguine with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: – 8 oz linguine; – ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; – 3 cloves garlic, minced; – 1 cup half-and-half; – 1 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded; – ¼ teaspoon paprika; – ¼ teaspoon salt; – 6 oz spinach; – 5 fresh basil leaves, finely chopped; – 1 tablespoon olive oil

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect as a main dish, or serve it alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for added protein. You can dress it up or down depending on the mood.

Budget-Friendly: Uses mostly pantry staples and fresh spinach, so it’s flavorful without a fancy price tag.

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is a lifesaver on busy evenings when you want something homemade and satisfying.

Customizable: Feel free to swap in kale, arugula, or even mushrooms. You can tweak the spice level and richness to suit your taste.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

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

Here’s the magic of this pasta dish: it brings together a few bold, punchy ingredients into one creamy, comforting creation.

Linguine: The pasta of choice here, long and flat, perfect for soaking up every bit of that velvety sauce.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These bring a deep, tangy-sweet flavor that totally transforms the dish. They’re little flavor bombs!

Fresh Spinach: Adds a pop of color and a fresh, earthy taste that perfectly balances the creamy elements.

Garlic: A few cloves of garlic give the sauce that savory base we all know and love.

Heavy Cream: The foundation of the luscious sauce. It adds richness and silkiness to every bite.

Parmesan Cheese: For that salty, nutty kick that brings everything together in a beautiful harmony.

Olive Oil: Used to sauté the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Adds a subtle fruity note to the dish.

Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Just a pinch for a gentle heat that dances on your tongue.

Salt and Pepper: The simple duo that brings balance and brings all the other flavors to life.

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

Linguine with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water for the linguine. This ensures the pasta cooks evenly and comes out perfectly al dente.

Cook the Pasta: Add the linguine to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions. Reserve some pasta water before draining, just in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Sauté the Flavor Makers: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant — about a minute. Then stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes to release their flavor.

Add the Cream and Simmer: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally as it thickens and takes on all that garlicky, sun-dried tomato goodness.

Wilt the Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and stir until it wilts down into the sauce. This only takes a couple of minutes and brings a lovely freshness to the dish.

Mix in Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.

Combine with Pasta: Toss the cooked linguine into the skillet with the sauce, coating it completely. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to get that silky consistency.

Serve and Garnish: Serve hot, topped with extra Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, or a few extra sun-dried tomatoes for flair.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 480

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

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Serve it with a crisp green salad and a slice of warm garlic bread. Pair it with a glass of white wine (think Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay). Add grilled shrimp or chicken for a protein-packed variation.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
– Don’t skip reserving some pasta water — it’s liquid gold for adjusting the sauce.
– Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting power.
– If your sun-dried tomatoes are packed in oil, you can even use some of that flavorful oil for sautéing.
– Feel free to add mushrooms, artichokes, or cherry tomatoes for extra flair.
– A little lemon zest added at the end can brighten the whole dish beautifully.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne would work just fine.

2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely. Swap the cream for coconut cream and use nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan alternative.

3. What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
You can use roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes for a different but still tasty result.

4. Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed tofu make great additions.

5. Is this dish freezer-friendly?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Just know the texture may change slightly upon reheating.

6. Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the sauce ahead and store it separately. Cook the pasta fresh for best results.

7. What if my sauce is too thick?
Add a little reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.

8. Can I add more veggies?
Definitely. Mushrooms, peas, or zucchini are great add-ins.

9. How spicy is it with red pepper flakes?
It adds a mild kick, but you can skip it if you’re sensitive to spice.

10. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, just thaw and drain it well before adding it to the sauce.

Conclusion

Linguine with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is one of those recipes that feels fancy without the fuss. It’s creamy, rich, and packed with flavor — all ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this pasta is pure comfort in a bowl. Give it a try and get ready to fall in love with every twirl!