Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta

Name: Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta of your choice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 200ml heavy cream; 100g grated Parmesan cheese; 250g fresh spinach; Salt and pepper to taste; Chili flakes for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Fresh Healthy Meals Ideas

I absolutely love making Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta as a way to wind down the week. There’s something special about the creamy sauce enveloping perfectly cooked pasta, all while vibrant spinach adds a punch of color and nutrition. When I first tried this combination, I was amazed at how quickly it all comes together, making it ideal for a last-minute dinner. Trust me, once you try this comforting dish, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen.

Created by

Cecilia Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-13T00:45:35.447Z

When I first embarked on creating this creamy spinach pasta dish, I was searching for a quick yet satisfying meal that didn’t compromise on flavor. After experimenting with different sauces, I discovered that blending cream with garlic and parmesan created an exquisite base that pairs wonderfully with fresh spinach. The way the cream clings to the pasta ensures every bite is luxurious.

One tip I would give from my experiences is to sauté the spinach just enough that it wilts but still retains its vibrant green color. This not only enhances the dish's visual appeal, but the fresh flavor it brings is simply divine. You’ll find it not only tastes fresh but looks stunning on the dining table!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy sauce that envelops pasta perfectly
Nutritious spinach that adds flavor and color
Quick and easy meal for busy Sundays

      

Mastering the Creamy Sauce

The key to a silky, creamy sauce lies in the temperature control during cooking. After sautéing the garlic, ensure you lower the heat before adding the heavy cream. This prevents the cream from boiling, which could cause it to curdle. Stir your sauce gently and watch for it to become glossy and smooth before adding the Parmesan cheese. This creates a rich base that coats the pasta beautifully.

When incorporating the reserved pasta water, start with a small amount and gradually add more until you achieve your preferred creaminess. This step is crucial, as the starchy water not only helps thicken the sauce but also helps it adhere better to the pasta, creating a delightful mouthfeel.

Elevating the Dish

To make this dish even more vibrant, consider adding colorful vegetables such as cherry tomatoes or roasted bell peppers. These can be sautéed along with the garlic to enhance the flavor profile and add visual appeal. If you're looking for an additional protein boost, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp can easily be tossed in at the end for a heartier meal.

If you're keen on meal prepping, the creamy sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash more of cream or pasta water to revive its texture before incorporating the pasta.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delightful pasta dish:

Ingredients

300g pasta of your choice
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
200ml heavy cream
100g grated Parmesan cheese
250g fresh spinach
Salt and pepper to taste
Chili flakes for garnish (optional)

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite pasta type!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your creamy spinach pasta:

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

Sauté garlic and spinach

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted.

Make the creamy sauce

Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add reserved pasta water gradually to reach desired creaminess.

Combine and serve

Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes if desired. Serve warm!

Enjoy your Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta!

Pro Tips

To make this dish even more flavorful, consider adding some cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms as protein options.

Ingredient Tips

Choosing the right pasta type can greatly influence the dish's texture. Opt for shapes like fusilli or farfalle that have curves and crevices to capture the creamy sauce, rather than straight pasta like spaghetti that might slide off. Additionally, using fresh spinach is preferable for its tender texture and vibrant flavor, but if you're in a pinch, frozen spinach can be used; make sure to thaw it and drain excess water before adding.

For the Parmesan cheese, consider using freshly grated cheese over pre-grated options. Freshly grated Parmesan offers a stronger flavor and a smoother melting quality, resulting in a luxurious sauce. If you need a lactose-free alternative, look for plant-based Parmesan substitutes that melt similarly.

Serving Suggestions

To serve your Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a dash of freshly cracked black pepper can enhance the flavor further. Pair the dish with garlic bread or a light salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta. This combination creates a satisfying but not overly heavy meal perfect for winding down your weekend.

If you enjoy a little spice, consider offering chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil on the side for guests to add based on their preference. This extra touch can elevate the dish from comforting to outstanding, allowing everyone to personalize their dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, you can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture.

→ What type of pasta works best?

This recipe works well with any pasta, but I recommend fettuccine or penne for the best sauce adherence.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Use plant-based cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a vegan option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or cream.