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: 250g pasta of your choice; 200g fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Recipes

I absolutely love making Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta as my cherished weekend indulgence. The creamy sauce melds beautifully with fresh spinach, and every time I serve it, my family can’t get enough. It's such a simple recipe yet feels special and is comforting on any lazy Sunday. I usually whip it up with ingredients I already have at home, and it's satisfying to see everyone enjoying a meal that comes together so quickly—just about 30 minutes from start to finish!

Created by

Abigail Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:19:35.449Z

When I first attempted this Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it came together. The richness of the cream pairs wonderfully with the slightly wilted spinach, bringing out a vibrancy that seriously enhances the dish. I always start with sautéing garlic in olive oil to infuse the flavor early on, which several failed attempts taught me really makes all the difference.

One key tip I learned is to reserve a bit of pasta water before draining. Adding this to the sauce creates an incredible silkiness that coats each strand perfectly. It’s truly a simple method that elevates a humble dish to something truly delightful—perfect for family gatherings or just a cozy night in!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy and luscious sauce that clings to every noodle
Nutritious spinach adds a fresh and vibrant touch
Quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends

The Role of Spinach

Fresh spinach is not just an aesthetic addition; it plays a crucial role in balancing the flavors in this pasta dish. Its natural bitterness contrasts beautifully with the rich, creamy sauce, adding depth to each bite. Be sure to use fresh spinach rather than frozen, as it wilts quicker and retains a vibrant green color. If you find yourself without fresh spinach, you can substitute it with kale or Swiss chard, though you'll want to adjust the cooking time, as these greens may take a bit longer to soften.

When adding the spinach to the skillet, keep an eye on it. It should only take about 2-3 minutes to wilt down properly over medium heat. Overcooking can result in a mushy texture that detracts from the overall experience. The goal is to maintain a pleasant bite while releasing just enough moisture to create a luscious coating for the pasta.

Perfecting the Cream Sauce

Creating the cream sauce for your pasta is an art. When you add the heavy cream to the sautéed garlic and spinach, make sure to lower the heat to medium-low. This allows the sauce to thicken without burning. Watch for it to become glossy; when that happens, it’s time to incorporate the pasta. If your sauce seems too thick when combining, gradually add the reserved pasta water—this step is crucial for achieving that perfect silkiness.

For added flavor, feel free to incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of lemon juice into your cream sauce. These ingredients enhance the richness of the cream without overpowering the dish. Just remember to stir well and taste as you go to find the flavor balance you enjoy the most.

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, store the creamy spinach pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend using a skillet on low heat, adding a small splash of cream or reserved pasta water to help restore that velvety texture. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and prevent the sauce from breaking.

This dish also freezes well, so if you want to make it ahead of time, store it in a freezer-safe container after it has cooled completely. It’s best consumed within a month. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned above. This makes it a great option for planned meals that don’t skimp on flavor or comfort.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start cooking. This helps streamline the process!

Ingredients

250g pasta of your choice
200g fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Once you have everything, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious pasta dish.

Cook the Pasta

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

Sauté Garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

Add Spinach

Throw in the fresh spinach, stirring until wilted, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper as desired.

Combine with Cream

Pour in the heavy cream and mix well. Let it simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened, then add the pasta, combining everything together. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the creamy spinach pasta in bowls, topped with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delightful meal!

Be sure to savor each bite of this delicious dish!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can include a pinch of nutmeg in the cream sauce or use whole grain pasta for a healthier twist.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta experience, consider pairing it with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. This contrast of textures will complement the creamy pasta beautifully. Adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts can also provide a delightful crunch and enhance the dish's flavor profile.

Another delicious option is to serve the pasta alongside garlic bread or crusty baguette slices. This gives a satisfying way to soak up any leftover sauce that clings to your dish, ensuring none of that creamy goodness goes to waste.

Variations to Try

This pasta dish can easily be customized based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences. You can make it vegan by swapping the heavy cream for coconut cream or a cashew cream made from blended soaked cashews. Nutritional yeast can replace the Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

Additionally, incorporating proteins like grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp can turn this vegetarian dish into a heartier meal. Just be sure to cook the proteins separately and add them to the pasta in the last few minutes of cooking to warm through without overcooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can! Just thaw and drain the frozen spinach before adding it to the dish.

→ What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Any pasta shape works, but I recommend fettuccine or penne for better sauce adherence.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use plant-based pasta for a vegan option.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or peas would be great additions for extra flavor and nutrition.