Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta

Name: Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta (fusilli or penne); 250g fresh spinach; 200ml heavy cream; 100g grated parmesan cheese; 50g cream cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making this Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta for a cozy family dinner. The creamy sauce combined with the vibrant spinach creates a delightful dish that's both comforting and nourishing. Every bite feels like a warm hug! I usually pair it with a fresh salad and garlic bread, making it a perfect weekend treat. The best part? It comes together in just a few minutes, leaving me plenty of time to relax and enjoy with my loved ones.

Created by

Callie Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:13:07.469Z

When I first tried this Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta, I was amazed by how quickly it came together. I initially thought I'd need hours to create something so rich and flavorful. However, with just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, I achieved a deliciously creamy dish that delighted my entire family.

The secret to making this dish truly memorable lies in the blend of cheeses and a splash of pasta cooking water that creates an incredibly silky sauce. This technique not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that every strand of pasta is perfectly coated.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy sauce that hugs every piece of pasta
Nutritious spinach adds both flavor and color
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weekends

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Fresh spinach is a standout ingredient in this Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta, adding not only vibrant color but also a wealth of nutrients. When choosing spinach, look for deep green leaves without any wilting or browning. This ensures you’re getting the best flavor and texture, which is crucial since spinach cooks down significantly, intensifying its taste. If fresh spinach is unavailable, you can substitute with thawed frozen spinach; just be sure to drain it well to avoid excess water in your sauce.

Using high-quality dairy ingredients makes a noticeable difference in the creaminess of the sauce. Opt for full-fat heavy cream and real parmesan cheese, as these contribute to a rich and luscious consistency. If you want to lighten up the dish, consider using a lower-fat cream, but be mindful that this may slightly affect the sauce's richness. For those who are lactose intolerant, a substitute like cashew cream can provide creaminess without dairy.

Mastering the Cream Sauce

To achieve the perfect creamy sauce, it's crucial to control the heat while incorporating the cream and cream cheese. Lower the heat to medium-low after adding these ingredients to prevent them from scorching. Stir continuously until they meld together, which usually takes around 3-5 minutes. Look for a glossy texture that clings to the back of a spoon; it should not be too thick or too runny. If you find the sauce thickening too much, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Seasoning the sauce is key to elevating its flavor. Once the sauce is combined, taste it before adding salt and pepper. A pinch of nutmeg or a squeeze of lemon juice can also enhance the creaminess and brighten the overall flavor profile. Remember, the parmesan cheese will add saltiness, so be cautious with the amount of salt you add initially.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

300g pasta (fusilli or penne)
250g fresh spinach
200ml heavy cream
100g grated parmesan cheese
50g cream cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Sauté the Spinach and Garlic

In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.

Make the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and cream cheese. Allow it to melt and combine thoroughly. Gradually mix in the grated parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Return the cooked pasta to the pot and toss it in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until desired consistency is reached.

Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with additional parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips

For a healthier twist, you can add grilled chicken or shrimp. A pinch of nutmeg can enhance the cream sauce further.

Serving Suggestions

This delightful pasta dish can be complemented with a variety of sides. A fresh arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the pasta, providing a peppery bite that balances the meal. You can also serve it with homemade garlic bread, which adds a lovely crunch and enhances the comforting vibe of your dinner. Just remember to toast the bread until golden brown for the best texture.

If you want to elevate the dish further, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein. These additions not only provide texture contrast but also create a more filling dish, perfect for family gatherings or entertaining guests.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the creamy sauce ahead of time to make the cooking process even quicker. Just keep the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to enjoy the dish, gently reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of pasta water to loosen it up if needed. This can save you valuable time during busy weekend dinners or family gatherings.

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the pasta in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or pasta water to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid microwaving it as this can cause uneven heating and affect the texture. Instead, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring constantly until warm throughout.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

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

→ What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Fusilli or penne is recommended for their ability to hold the sauce well, but you can use any pasta you prefer.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

Substitute the heavy cream and cream cheese with coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly version.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it when you're ready to serve.