Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
⏱️ Prep Time: 10 minutes • 🍳 Cook Time: 15 minutes
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a delightful combination of comforting and vibrant flavors.
Indulge in the richness of this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes. Al dente pasta is coated in a luxurious sauce infused with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and cream, then studded with tender spinach leaves and flavorful sun-dried tomatoes. The velvety sauce clings to each pasta strand, while the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of freshness. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion treat!
Ingredients
🍽️ Servings: 4 • 🔥 Calories/Serving: 450
8 ounces (225g) dry penne or any pasta of your choice
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups fresh spinach leaves
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained and chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Steps
Step 1
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. Set both the pasta and reserved water aside.
Step 2
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
Step 3
Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about a minute until it becomes fragrant.
Step 4
Pour in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 5
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce and create a luscious creamy texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6
Add the cooked pasta to the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta cooking water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 7
Toss in the fresh spinach leaves and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Stir everything together until the spinach wilts slightly and the sun-dried tomatoes are distributed throughout the pasta.
Step 8
Remove the skillet from the heat and let the pasta sit for a minute to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 9
Serve the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes in individual bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of aromatic delight.
Make it your own!
Enhance the creaminess by stirring in a spoonful of cream cheese or mascarpone along with the Parmesan.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
Customize the greens by using baby kale or arugula instead of spinach.
For a non-vegetarian options, mix in your favorite protein like chicken or shrimp.
