Bow Tie Pasta With Spinach Alfredo

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Spinach Alfredo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz bow tie pasta; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: Red pepper flakes for a kick

Highlighted under: Fresh & Balanced Eats

I absolutely adore Bow Tie Pasta With Spinach Alfredo because it brings a creamy, comforting dish to the table in no time. The blend of tender pasta and rich Alfredo sauce, infused with fresh spinach, creates a delightful balance that's hard to resist. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish strikes the perfect note between indulgence and simplicity. Plus, it's an excellent way to sneak in some greens without compromising on flavor. Let’s get started on this delicious recipe!

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-02-27T19:42:34.961Z

One evening, I found myself craving something creamy yet light, which led me to experiment with Bow Tie Pasta and a homemade spinach Alfredo sauce. I decided to add fresh spinach for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition, which worked like a charm. The result was a beautifully colored dish that not only tasted divine but also looked vibrant on the plate.

After trying a few variations, I discovered that cooking the spinach just long enough to wilt in the sauce made all the difference—preserving its color while enhancing the dish's overall creaminess. This method allowed the flavors to meld without overcooking the delicate spinach leaves.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy Alfredo sauce enveloping perfectly cooked bow tie pasta
Nutritious spinach adding freshness and a pop of color
Quick preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights

Perfecting the Alfredo Sauce

The key to a smooth, creamy Alfredo sauce lies in the gentle heating of the heavy cream. Start by bringing it to a simmer rather than a boil. Boiling can cause the cream to separate or become grainy. Once you add the Parmesan cheese, stir continuously until it melts completely, creating a silky texture. If the sauce seems too thick, you can adjust it by adding a splash of pasta water for a more manageable consistency without losing flavor.

Remember, the type of Parmesan you use greatly affects the taste. A high-quality, freshly grated Parmesan will add a depth of flavor that pre-packaged varieties often lack. If you're ever in a pinch, Pecorino Romano can be used as a substitute, imparting a sharper flavor to the sauce. Just be mindful of the saltiness, as Pecorino tends to be saltier than Parmesan.

Enhancing Texture with Spinach

Fresh spinach not only adds nutrition but also plays a crucial role in the texture of this dish. When added to the hot Alfredo sauce, it wilts quickly, retaining some of its vibrant color while blending harmoniously with the creamy sauce. For a deeper flavor, you might consider using sautéed spinach instead of raw; just sauté it in the butter before adding the garlic for an extra layer of taste.

If you're looking to switch things up, consider incorporating other leafy greens like kale or arugula for a unique flavor twist. These can be added at the same stage as the spinach. Just remember, tougher greens like kale will require a slightly longer cooking time to become tender. Aim for about 5-6 minutes of wilting on medium heat before incorporating into the sauce.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

This Bow Tie Pasta with Spinach Alfredo stands beautifully on its own, but to elevate your meal, consider pairing it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also add a fresh finish that complements the rich flavors. If you’re serving a crowd, doubling the recipe is easy; just ensure you have a large enough pot for cooking the pasta and sauce together.

In terms of storage, this dish can be kept in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a little splash of cream or milk to reclaim that creamy consistency if it thickens. Freezing is not recommended as the cream can separate, but if you do freeze it, use an airtight container and consume within a month for best results.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Bow Tie Pasta With Spinach Alfredo

8 oz bow tie pasta
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Red pepper flakes for a kick

Mix well before serving!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Boil water in a large pot. Add the bow tie pasta and a pinch of salt, cooking according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Alfredo Sauce

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

Combine Spinach

Stir in the chopped spinach and let it wilt in the cream for 2-3 minutes. Mix in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.

Combine with Pasta

Add the drained bow tie pasta to the Alfredo sauce and gently toss until evenly coated. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if desired.

Enjoy your creamy pasta dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding sautéed mushrooms or grilled chicken to the dish.

Flavor Boosters and Variations

While the classic Spinach Alfredo is fantastic as is, feel free to add other ingredients to elevate its flavor profile. Ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, cooked chicken, or shrimp can provide additional protein and richness. If you enjoy a bit of heat, try tossing in some red pepper flakes or sautéed spicy sausage for a robust twist that will make this dish even more satisfying.

Experimenting with herbs can also add dimension. Fresh thyme or oregano can be introduced when you add the cream to enhance the flavor. Dried herbs work just as well; however, they should be added earlier in the cooking process to allow time for their flavors to develop.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your Alfredo sauce seems too greasy or separates, it likely means the heat was too high or the cream wasn’t incorporated properly. Lower the heat and whisk the sauce vigorously to bring it back together, adding a little more Parmesan to help emulsify it. Alternatively, if it becomes too thick, gently whisk in warm pasta cooking water until you reach your desired consistency.

Another common issue is overcooking the pasta, which can lead to a mushy texture. Always cook the pasta until al dente, which is slightly firm when bitten. This will allow it to hold its shape while soaking up the Alfredo sauce without falling apart.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?

Yes, whole wheat pasta works well and adds more fiber!

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half for a lighter option, though the sauce will be less creamy.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Broccoli, bell peppers, or even sun-dried tomatoes would complement the dish nicely.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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