Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta

Name: Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 5 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Daily Kitchen

I absolutely love making this Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta! It's become a weekend staple in our home because it combines rich flavors and a silky texture that everyone adores. With minimal effort, I can whip up a dish that feels indulgent yet is packed with nutritious spinach. Perfect for a cozy family meal, this pasta dish can effortlessly impress guests as well. Whether it's for a lazy Sunday or a cheerful gathering, this pasta is sure to steal the show.

Created by

Elara Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:15:35.932Z

When I first tried my hand at this creamy pasta recipe, I was completely amazed by how simple ingredients could meld into such a rich and comforting dish. The secret is to sauté the spinach until it's just wilted; this enhances its natural flavor, making it a star ingredient instead of just a filler. I like to finish it off with a sprinkle of nutmeg, which adds warmth and depth that truly elevates the entire experience.

What’s more, I learned that choosing the right pasta makes all the difference. I prefer using fettuccine because its flat surface clings beautifully to the creamy sauce, creating a delightful mouthful with every bite. This dish has become a family favorite, and I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it has to ours!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that comforts and satisfies
Nutritious spinach packed into every bite
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

Mastering the Cream Sauce

When creating the cream sauce for this Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta, the key is to heat the heavy cream gently. Bring it to a gentle simmer over low heat, which prevents it from scorching or curdling. This process typically takes about 2-3 minutes. Stirring continuously helps to incorporate the Parmesan cheese smoothly, which ensures a velvety finish. If you notice the sauce thickening too quickly, you can easily adjust the consistency by incorporating a bit of the reserved pasta water.

Nutmeg plays a crucial role in elevating the flavors of the cream sauce. Just a pinch enhances the overall warmth of the dish without making it taste like a spice rack. Make sure to use fresh nutmeg if possible. It brings out the creaminess and compliments the earthy flavor of the spinach beautifully. Adding too much, however, can overpower the dish; just a touch is all that's needed.

Cooking the Pasta to Perfection

Cooking the fettuccine to the perfect al dente texture is critical for this dish. Follow the package instructions closely but keep an eye on the pasta during the last minute, as it can go from firm to mushy quickly. Al dente pasta should be tender with a slight bite. This texture not only holds up better when tossed with the sauce, but it also provides a pleasant contrast to the creamy sauce.

Reserving the pasta water is a game changer. It is starchy and helps to emulsify the sauce, creating a cohesive blend. If you find that your sauce is too thick after combining it with the pasta, slowly add the reserved water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. This technique allows for better coating of the pasta and can make the dish more visually appealing.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your creamy spinach pasta:

Ingredients

12 oz fettuccine pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
5 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match these ingredients to suit your taste or dietary requirements!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Sunday Creamy Spinach Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.

Sauté the Garlic and Spinach

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, around 2-3 minutes.

Create the Cream Sauce

Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Flavor variations are endless—feel free to add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein!

Pro Tips

For a plant-based version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

Tips for Ingredients

When selecting spinach, look for vibrant, fresh leaves without any yellowing. Fresh spinach adds a brighter flavor and better texture compared to frozen varieties. However, if you find yourself without fresh spinach, you can substitute with thawed frozen spinach; just ensure it's well-drained to avoid excess water in the sauce.

For a dairy-free version of this creamy pasta, consider using a combination of coconut milk and nutritional yeast. The coconut milk offers a creamy texture while the nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor. You could also explore using cashew cream for a rich, nutty substitute that pairs wonderfully with the other flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, bringing a fresh crunch that complements the creamy texture. A light vinaigrette using lemon juice can brighten the flavors of the meal. Alternatively, crusty garlic bread makes a fantastic accompaniment for scooping up any leftover sauce.

If you're looking to enhance this dish further, consider adding roasted chicken or sautéed shrimp for a protein boost. These additions can turn a comforting vegetarian pasta into a more substantial entrée. Just be sure to add them just before combining with the creamy sauce to keep everything warm and fresh.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the dish.

→ How can I make this gluten-free?

Simply swap regular fettuccine for a gluten-free pasta alternative, and you'll have a delicious gluten-free meal.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and toss it with fresh pasta just before serving.