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 fettuccine or your favorite pasta; Salt, for boiling; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 200g fresh spinach, roughly chopped; 200ml heavy cream; 50g grated parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta as a comforting family meal. It has become a tradition for us to gather around the table and enjoy this creamy, flavorful dish. The richness of the sauce paired with the earthy notes of spinach creates a delightful balance that satisfies everyone. I’ve experimented with different ingredients and have settled on this combination to ensure every bite is pure bliss. In just under 30 minutes, we’re savoring a delicious pasta dish that feels both luxurious and homey.

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:40:20.587Z

During one chilly Sunday afternoon, I decided to whip up something warm and inviting for my family, and that’s how this creamy spinach pasta came to life. I wanted a dish that could be prepared quickly but still felt indulgent. Using fresh spinach and a mix of cream, garlic, and parmesan, I achieved just that. The spinach not only adds a vibrant color but also an amazing flavor that pairs beautifully with pasta.

As I stirred the pasta into the velvety sauce, I couldn’t help but think of how this dish encapsulates comfort food. My kids loved it, asking for seconds without any hesitation. A little tip: don’t forget to reserve some pasta water when draining; it helps to loosen the sauce and make it cling perfectly to the pasta!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Silky creamy sauce that envelops each pasta piece
Nutritious spinach adds both flavor and vibrant color
Quick and easy, perfect for busy Sundays

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

When preparing Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta, using fresh ingredients is crucial for achieving an authentic flavor profile. Fresh spinach not only brightens the dish with its vibrant green color, but it also contributes a delicate earthiness that elevates the creamy sauce. Look for spinach with crisp leaves and no signs of wilting. If fresh isn’t available, you can substitute with frozen spinach, but remember to thaw and drain excess moisture to prevent a watery sauce.

The quality of your parmesan cheese also plays a key role in the dish's overall taste. Opt for freshly grated parmesan over pre-packaged versions, as it melts more smoothly into the sauce and imparts a richer flavor. If you're short on time or ingredients, Pecorino Romano can be a suitable alternative, though it has a saltier profile that may alter the overall seasoning of the dish.

Mastering the Creamy Sauce

Creating a silky sauce is all about the technique. When adding the cream to the skillet, make sure the heat is set to low; this prevents the cream from curdling and ensures a smooth consistency. Stir the mixture continuously until it becomes glossy and slightly thickens, which usually takes 2-3 minutes. If you notice the sauce is bubbling too vigorously, immediately lower the heat to maintain that creamy texture.

A pinch of nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that enhances the dish, so don’t skip it unless you’re not a fan of the flavor. If you're looking to add more depth, consider including a dash of lemon juice at the end for a light tang that brightens the entire dish, making it even more satisfying.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start cooking:

For the Pasta

300g fettuccine or your favorite pasta
Salt, for boiling

For the Creamy Spinach Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
200g fresh spinach, roughly chopped
200ml heavy cream
50g grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Once you have everything ready, let’s move on to preparing the pasta and sauce!

Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to make Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta:

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 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

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

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Add the grated parmesan cheese, and mix until the cheese has melted. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.

Mix It All Together

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sautéing some onions with the garlic or tossing in some cherry tomatoes for a pop of sweetness. You can also replace the cream with a plant-based alternative for a lighter version.

Serving Suggestions

To really amplify the flavors, serve your Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta with a sprinkle of extra parmesan on top and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. Pairing it with a light side salad dressed in vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta beautifully. For an added kick, consider topping it with crushed red pepper flakes or freshly cracked black pepper.

If you're feeling adventurous, try incorporating grilled chicken or shrimp into the dish for some added protein. Simply sauté the protein in the skillet before adding the garlic, and follow the rest of the recipe as directed. This variation can turn a humble pasta dish into a crowd-pleasing centerpiece for your family meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This creamy pasta dish makes for excellent leftovers, but for best results, it’s advisable to store the pasta and sauce separately if you plan on making it ahead. Allow the components to cool to room temperature before transferring them to airtight containers; this helps to maintain their textures. The pasta can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, while the sauce should also keep well for about 3 to 4 days.

When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to the sauce to restore its creamy consistency. Heat gently over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating. If it becomes too thick, just stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. This way, you'll enjoy a fresh-tasting dish even after a few days!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just ensure to thaw and drain excess water before adding it to the sauce.

→ What other pastas work well with this sauce?

You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, spaghetti, or even tortellini.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best fresh, you can prepare the sauce a day ahead and just reheat it before mixing with the freshly cooked pasta.

→ What can I serve with this pasta dish?

This creamy pasta pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or some crusty garlic bread.