Name: Sun Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz. penne pasta (mini size or regular); 10 cups hot water; Salt (and black pepper) to taste; 8 oz. baby spinach (8 cups packed), chopped; 2 Tbsp oil from jar of sun dried tomatoes; 4 tsp minced garlic (4 cloves); 2 Tbsp tomato paste; 1/2 cup sun dried tomato halves in oil, well drained and finely chopped; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (or 1/2 tsp for slightly spicier); 1 cup reserved pasta water; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup (2 oz) finely shredded parmesan cheese; 2 Tbsp chopped fresh basil; 1 1/2 tsp fresh lemon juice (optional); 3/4 tsp paprika (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 45 reviews

If you are craving a pasta dish that bursts with vibrant colors, rich flavors, and a touch of creamy indulgence, this Sun Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe is the perfect answer. It masterfully combines the tangy sweetness of sun dried tomatoes, the fresh earthiness of baby spinach, and the savory sharpness of Parmesan into a quick yet unforgettable dinner. With a cozy texture and a sauce that clings lovingly to every piece of penne pasta, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any weeknight or special gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with golden yellow uncooked penne pasta sits near the center on a white marbled surface. To its left, a clear glass bowl is filled with fresh green spinach leaves, and above it is a clear glass measuring cup containing white cream or milk. Below the pasta bowl, there is a glass jar of deep red sun-dried tomatoes with a green lid, and next to it are two clear spice jars labeled Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. To the right of the spices, a clear pepper grinder with white salt grains is placed, and next to it is a pale yellow wedge of hard cheese. On the far right, there is a green and white tube of tomato paste and several large green basil leaves with stems and four peeled garlic cloves arranged nearby. The background is a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—the ingredients are straightforward but each one plays a vital role in building deep, layered flavors and a delightful texture combination. Every item from the garlic to the fresh basil adds a unique note that harmonizes perfectly in the final dish.

12 oz. penne pasta: Choose mini or regular size for the ideal pasta shape that catches the sauce well.

10 cups hot water: For boiling the pasta properly to al dente perfection.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning throughout and bringing out the flavors.
8 oz. baby spinach (8 cups packed), chopped: Adds a vibrant green color and fresh, slightly sweet taste.

2 Tbsp oil from sun dried tomatoes jar: This oil is infused with intense tomato flavor, perfect for sautéeing.
4 tsp minced garlic (about 4 cloves): Brings aromatic depth and a subtle bite.
2 Tbsp tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce slightly.

1/2 cup sun dried tomato halves in oil, finely chopped: The star ingredient that delivers rich, tangy tomato goodness.
2 tsp Italian seasoning: A balanced herb blend that enhances the sauce’s complexity.
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes: Provides a gentle kick; increase to 1/2 tsp for a spicier touch.

1 cup reserved pasta water: Adds silkiness and perfect sauce consistency.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates a luxurious, creamy base for the sauce.
1 cup (2 oz) finely shredded Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty flavor and melts smoothly into the sauce.

2 Tbsp chopped fresh basil: Brings bright herbal notes and freshness to finish.
1 1/2 tsp fresh lemon juice (optional): Adds a lovely hint of acidity to brighten the dish.
3/4 tsp paprika (optional): Offers a smoky depth and beautiful color.

How to Make Sun Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe

A collage of four close-up images shows steps of cooking a sauce in a silver metal pot on a stove with a white marbled texture background. The first image has bubbling yellow liquid with pasta inside the pot. The second image shows light golden garlic pieces with oil being stirred with a wooden spatula held by a woman's hand. The third image features a wooden spatula stirring chunky red tomato paste in golden oil. The last image shows the wooden spatula mixing cream, red tomato paste, and green dried herbs all swirling together in the pot. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Al Dente

Start by bringing 10 cups of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Be generous with the salt—this seasons the pasta from the inside out. Add your penne pasta and cook it just until al dente according to the package instructions. Before draining the pasta, reserve one cup of that starchy pasta water; this will become your secret weapon for moistening the sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Flavorful Base

While the pasta is cooking, warm the oil from the sun dried tomatoes jar in a saucepan set to medium-low heat. Quickly sauté the minced garlic for about 20 seconds until just fragrant and slightly golden—watch closely so it doesn’t burn. Stir in the tomato paste, cooking and stirring for 30 seconds to deepen its flavor and develop that rich umami base we love.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Tomato Sauce

Carefully add the heavy cream to the saucepan, then mix in the finely chopped sun dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the sauce begins to come alive, blending creaminess with the vibrant tomato essence and a subtle spicy kick.

Step 4: Incorporate the Parmesan

Lower the heat and stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until it melts completely into the sauce. This step adds that irresistible savory depth and creaminess that makes this pasta dish truly special.

Step 5: Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Spinach

Transfer the sun dried tomato sauce into the empty pot that held your cooked pasta. Return the drained pasta to the pot and add the chopped spinach along with half a cup of the reserved pasta water. Cook over medium-low heat just until the spinach wilts—this helps everything marry beautifully together while keeping the spinach tender and bright.

Step 6: Final Seasoning and Herb Finish

Take your pot off the heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil for an herbaceous lift. If using, add the fresh lemon juice and paprika now to further brighten and deepen the flavor profile. If the sauce feels a bit thick, thin it gently with up to half a cup more of the reserved pasta water for that perfect silkiness.

How to Serve Sun Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe

Garnishes

Bring even more flair to your dish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a pinch of freshly cracked black pepper can elevate each bite. A few toasted pine nuts scattered on top add a delightful crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy texture.

Side Dishes

This pasta shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or some roasted garlic bread to mop up every bit of sauce. For a heartier meal, a simple grilled chicken breast or sautéed shrimp would complement the flavors without overwhelming the pasta’s delicate balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, twirl the pasta into tight nests on individual plates and garnish each with a whole sun dried tomato half and a fresh basil sprig. Serve in rustic bowls to highlight the vibrant colors of the spinach and sun dried tomatoes, making the dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Sun Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually meld nicely overnight, making the leftovers taste just as good, if not better, the next day.

Freezing

This pasta is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze as well due to the cream and spinach. However, if you must freeze, place portions in airtight containers and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently to prevent separation in the sauce.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the pasta over low heat in a skillet or saucepan. Add a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce and stir frequently to avoid sticking or scorching. Microwaving is possible but stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne works great for catching the sauce, feel free to experiment with fusilli, rigatoni, or even farfalle. Just adjust cooking times according to the pasta you choose.

What can I substitute for heavy cream if I want a lighter version?

You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt, but keep in mind the sauce may be less rich and slightly thinner. Add these gently and avoid boiling to prevent curdling.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Swap out the Parmesan for a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast and use a dairy-free cream substitute like coconut cream or cashew cream. The flavor will shift slightly but remain deliciously satisfying.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a crowd?

You can prep the sauce a day in advance and refrigerate it separately. Cook the pasta fresh just before serving for best texture, then combine and warm everything together quickly before serving.

How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?

The default amount adds just a gentle warmth without overwhelming heat. Feel free to increase the amount for a spicier kick or omit entirely if you prefer mild flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Sun Dried Tomato Pasta with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe is one of those comforting, flavorful meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple to prepare but packed with fresh, exciting flavors that make it a true staple in any home cook’s repertoire. I genuinely encourage you to try it—once you do, it might just become your new favorite pasta dinner to share with family and friends!