Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta

Name: Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 ounces pasta (fettuccine or your choice); 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Pinch of nutmeg

Highlighted under: Easy Cooking

I love making this Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta to wrap up my weekend on a delicious note. The rich, creamy sauce paired with fresh spinach creates a dish that's both comforting and satisfying. It's an easy recipe that comes together in just a few minutes, making it perfect for busy Sundays. Plus, I enjoy adding a touch of garlic and Parmesan to elevate the flavors, ensuring every bite is a burst of goodness. Trust me, this pasta will soon become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Xanthe Beaumont

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:37:36.462Z

When experimenting with pasta dishes, I stumbled upon this creamy spinach sauce that transformed my typical Sundays. I began by sautéing fresh garlic, adding cream, and tossing in my favorite spinach. The contrast of textures and flavors blew me away! This method not only enhances the creaminess but also retains the nutrients in the spinach.

What I found truly remarkable was the addition of a hint of nutmeg. It brought an unexpected warmth to the dish, making it feel more special. I often serve it with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan for a delightful finish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of pasta
Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients to your meal
Quick and easy, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner
Customizable with your choice of protein or additional veggies

      

Cooking Pasta to Perfection

To achieve the perfect al dente texture, it's crucial to follow the package instructions closely. Typically, this means cooking the pasta in boiling salted water for around 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on the pasta during the final minute of cooking and taste a piece to ensure it has just the right amount of firmness. If you’re unsure, it's better to undercook slightly, as it will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce.

When draining the pasta, reserve about a cup of the starchy cooking water. This can be a lifesaver later when you’re mixing the pasta with the creamy sauce. The starchy water helps the sauce cling to the pasta better and can adjust consistency if the sauce seems too thick.

Elevating Your Spinach Sauce

The richness of the heavy cream in this recipe forms a luscious base, but the flavors truly shine with the right balance of seasonings. A pinch of nutmeg not only enhances the creaminess but adds a warmth that complements the spinach beautifully. Just be careful not to overdo it—start with a small pinch and adjust according to taste.

If you seek a deeper flavor, consider sautéing the garlic until it’s just starting to turn golden. This slight caramelization releases more flavors and adds a subtle nuttiness to your sauce. Be sure to monitor the heat; you want a gentle sizzle, not a rapid fry, to avoid burning the garlic.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful pasta experience:

Ingredients

12 ounces pasta (fettuccine or your choice)
3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Pinch of nutmeg

These ingredients will come together to create a yummy dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your creamy spinach pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Add Spinach

Add the chopped spinach, salt, pepper, and nutmeg to the cream sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach has wilted.

Combine

Toss the cooked pasta with the creamy spinach sauce until evenly coated. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your creamy pasta dish!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein. Another great variation is to include sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor kick.

Customization Options

This creamy spinach pasta is a fantastic base for your imagination. Consider adding proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. Simply cook them separately and toss them in with the pasta at the end. Alternatively, mix in seasonal vegetables such as cherry tomatoes or roasted bell peppers to brighten the dish and add extra nutrients.

For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream like coconut cream. While this may alter the flavor slightly, it will still provide creaminess and work beautifully with the spinach and garlic.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the creamy spinach pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day. However, keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce, making it thicker.

When reheating, do so over low heat on the stove and add a splash of reserved pasta water or additional cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can lead to uneven heating and a rubbery texture. Stir occasionally and heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the sauce.

→ What other pastas can I use?

Any pasta type works well, including penne, spaghetti, or whole wheat varieties.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I make this dairy-free?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a vegan cheese alternative to create a dairy-free version.