Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love weekends because they give me the perfect opportunity to create dishes that are comforting and delicious. This Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta has become a staple in my kitchen. The combination of fresh spinach and rich cream creates a luxurious sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal meal for a cozy Sunday dinner or even a weekday treat. I can't wait for you to experience the flavors and textures that make this dish so special!

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:13:13.505Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was surprised at how quick and easy it came together. The key is to sauté the spinach just until it's wilted before adding the cream, allowing it to retain its vibrant color and flavor. I also love using a mix of parmesan and cream cheese for richness, providing the perfect thickness to the sauce without it being too heavy.

This pasta has become a family favorite; even my kids adore it, which is a win in my book! If you're looking to add some protein, grilled chicken or shrimp pair beautifully as well. Don't forget to toss in some toasted pine nuts for added texture!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy sauce that envelops each pasta strand beautifully
Fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and essential nutrients
Perfectly comforting for a Sunday dinner with loved ones

      

Perfecting the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce for this pasta is truly the heart of the dish. Make sure to maintain a low heat when adding the heavy cream and cream cheese; this prevents the cream from curdling and ensures a smooth texture. Stirring continuously is key as it helps to integrate the cream cheese thoroughly into the sauce, creating a luxurious and glossy finish that will cling beautifully to each strand of pasta.

Using high-quality ingredients can elevate the flavor of your sauce significantly. For instance, opt for a good brand of heavy cream, as it brings richness and depth. The addition of freshly grated Parmesan enhances the umami flavor, but feel free to substitute it with pecorino cheese for a sharper note if desired. Incorporating nutmeg into the cream sauce can also impart a lovely warmth, especially in cooler weather.

Choosing the Right Pasta

The type of pasta you choose can affect the overall texture and enjoyment of this dish. Short pasta like fusilli or penne can capture the creamy sauce within their grooves, while long pasta such as fettuccine or spaghetti allows for a delightful twirl. I often prefer rigatoni for its sturdy shape, which stands up well to the rich sauce and ensures each bite is flavorful and satisfying.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, gluten-free pasta varieties work incredibly well here; just be sure to adhere to the cooking instructions provided on the package for the best results. Remember, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as gluten-free pasta can sometimes require less time in boiling water to avoid mushiness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before starting:

Ingredients

300g pasta of your choice
200g fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
100g cream cheese
50g grated parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Toasted pine nuts (optional, for garnish)

Once you have everything ready, you're just moments away from a delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy pasta:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Spinach

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

Make the Cream Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream and cream cheese to the spinach. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and combined. Add grated parmesan and stir until the sauce is creamy.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to combine it with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for a couple of minutes.

Serve

Serve the creamy spinach pasta warm, garnished with toast pine nuts and additional parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy this dish with a side salad or crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cream sauce. It complements the spinach beautifully.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the creamy spinach pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra cream to help restore the sauce's original creaminess, as it may thicken in the fridge. Microwave on medium heat at one-minute intervals, stirring in between, to ensure even warming without overheating the pasta.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta, but keep in mind that the texture may change slightly. To freeze, let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to a month, but I recommend serving it fresh if possible for the best flavors and textures.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding protein or other vegetables. Grilled chicken or shrimp can transform this dish into a heartier meal. Simply sauté them alongside the garlic before adding the spinach for a balanced, one-pan dish. For vegetarian options, sauté mushrooms or bell peppers to add extra depth and flavor to the sauce.

To give your creamy spinach pasta a kick, consider stirring in some red pepper flakes or a splash of lemon juice just before serving. This acidity can brighten the dish and balance out the richness of the cream, creating a more rounded flavor profile that’s sure to impress.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the sauce.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian! However, you could add extra vegetables, like mushrooms or bell peppers, for more flavor and texture.

→ What other pasta types work well with this recipe?

Farfalle, fettuccine, or even whole wheat pasta are great alternatives! Choose your favorite.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, you can prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat and add the pasta before serving.