Creamy Bow Tie Pasta With Spinach And Parmesan

Name: Creamy Bow Tie Pasta With Spinach And Parmesan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 12 oz bow tie pasta; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and black pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Hearty & Comforting

I absolutely love making this Creamy Bow Tie Pasta with Spinach and Parmesan during busy weeknights. It's a dish that comes together in under 30 minutes, which is perfect for my hectic schedule. The creamy sauce perfectly coats the pasta and is enhanced by the vibrant flavor of fresh spinach. What I appreciate most is how versatile it is; you can easily add your favorite proteins or veggies to make it your own. It's a comforting meal that never fails to impress!

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-02-24T04:17:36.629Z

When I first attempted this recipe, I wanted something quick yet comforting. I found that a combination of cream and cheese creates the most delightful texture, transforming the simple bow tie pasta into a rich dish. The addition of spinach not only makes it healthier but adds a lovely pop of green color that makes it look more appealing on the plate.

I've experimented with different cheeses, but Parmesan became my favorite for its nutty flavor that complements the cream so well. One tip I like to share is to reserve some pasta water before draining; it helps to thin out the sauce if it becomes too thick.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce that hugs each pasta shape
Fresh spinach adds a burst of color and nutrients
Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for any night

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

When making Creamy Bow Tie Pasta with Spinach and Parmesan, the quality of your ingredients can significantly impact the final dish. Using fresh spinach not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely green hue, making each bite look as good as it tastes. I recommend buying whole, vibrant leaves rather than pre-packaged ones. If you can't find fresh spinach, frozen spinach can be a suitable alternative; just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the pasta to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.

Parmesan cheese is another key ingredient here. Grating your own cheese from a block results in a creamier texture and deeper flavor compared to pre-grated varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents. Look for aged Parmesan for a sharper taste; this can elevate even a simple dish to something remarkable. Remember to save some cheese for garnishing to further enhance the flavor profile when serving.

Creamy Sauce Secrets

Achieving the perfect creamy sauce is about balance and technique. When you pour in the heavy cream, allow it to come to a gentle simmer rather than a rapid boil. This will prevent the cream from curdling and create a smooth texture. Stirring consistently while introducing the Parmesan is crucial; this helps the cheese melt evenly, combining it beautifully with the cream. If you find the sauce becomes too thick, don't hesitate to add reserved pasta water incrementally until you reach a glossy consistency that nicely clings to the pasta.

For added richness, consider incorporating a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic but before adding the cream. This extra step adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile. Just let the wine simmer until reduced by half before moving on to the cream—trust me, it’s worth it!

Customizing Your Dish

One of the best things about this creamy pasta is how adaptable it is! You can easily add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed mushrooms for additional protein and flavor. If you're looking for a vegetarian boost, try adding roasted cherry tomatoes or artichoke hearts. These not only enhance the dish visually but also contribute different textures and tastes that complement the creamy sauce well. Baby kale is another great substitute for spinach if you want a change.

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, consider preparing the pasta and sauce separately. Cook the pasta al dente and store it in an airtight container. The sauce can also be prepared and refrigerated. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce on low and toss it with the pasta, adding a splash of extra cream or reserved pasta water if needed. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz bow tie pasta
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste

Feel free to add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Sauce

In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and spinach to the pot, stirring to combine. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper if desired.

Enjoy your delicious, creamy bowl of pasta!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms into the dish.

Leftover Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers after enjoying this creamy pasta, storing it properly can help maintain its texture and flavor. Place the leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to revive that creaminess. Avoid reheating on high, as this can lead to separation in the sauce and a less appealing texture.

For those looking to extend shelf life, this creamy pasta can be frozen, although there may be some changes in texture upon thawing. To freeze, portion it into individual servings in freezer-safe containers. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently, adjusting the consistency with a bit of liquid as needed.

Presentation Ideas

When serving your Creamy Bow Tie Pasta, presentation can elevate the entire dining experience. Consider using shallow bowls to allow for more sauce visibility and garnishing with a sprig of fresh basil or parsley for a splash of color. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top just before serving can enhance the visual appeal and flavor profile, giving the dish a restaurant-like quality right at home.

You might also explore diverse serving options. This pasta pairs beautifully with a light side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Adding a side of garlic bread can transform this dish into a comforting family feast, perfect for any weeknight or special occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well, just be sure to thaw and drain it properly.

→ What can I use if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter for a lighter version.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and just reheat it with the cooked pasta.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegetarian diets?

Yes, it's vegetarian as long as you ensure the pasta is made without eggs.