Bow Tie Pasta With Spinach Alfredo

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Spinach Alfredo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 ounces bow tie pasta; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Light & Balanced

I absolutely love making Bow Tie Pasta with Spinach Alfredo on a cozy evening. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the unique shape of the pasta, creating a comforting dish that warms the soul. Each bite bursts with rich flavor, and the addition of spinach not only adds color but also a nutritional punch. It’s quick to prepare yet feels indulgent, making it a favorite in our household. Whenever I’m looking for a satisfying meal that’s simple to whip up, this classic pasta dish never disappoints.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-02-27T19:45:35.808Z

One evening, as I was pondering what to cook for dinner, I stumbled upon a recipe for Spinach Alfredo. Inspired, I decided to add my twist using bow tie pasta. The result was a delightful blend of flavors that exceeded my expectations. The creamy sauce enveloped the pasta beautifully, and incorporating fresh spinach added a lovely freshness.

I learned that the key to a great Alfredo is to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It melts more smoothly and gives the sauce a more robust flavor compared to pre-grated versions. This attention to detail makes all the difference in achieving a luscious texture.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy Alfredo sauce with a hint of garlic and Parmesan
Nutritious spinach adds color and health benefits
Easy to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner
Comforting and satisfying for pasta lovers

Understanding Your Ingredients

The key to a velvety Alfredo sauce lies in the quality of the cream and cheese used. Opt for a heavy cream with at least 36% fat content to achieve that rich, luxurious texture. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is preferred over pre-packaged varieties, as it melts more smoothly and provides a fresher flavor. If you're looking for a lighter version, try swapping half of the heavy cream with whole milk. This will reduce calories while still providing a creamy outcome, though the sauce may not be as thick.

The spinach in this dish not only enhances the visual appeal but also contributes numerous health benefits. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, spinach is a powerhouse green that delivers antioxidants. When selecting spinach, fresh leaves are ideal, as they offer a more vibrant flavor compared to frozen varieties. If you only have frozen spinach on hand, make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it before adding it to your sauce to avoid excess moisture.

Salt and pepper are essential not just for seasoning but also for balancing the flavors of your dish. When cooking the pasta, remember to salt your water generously; this is your first opportunity to infuse flavor. Once the Alfredo sauce comes together, taste it before serving. Adding a pinch of freshly cracked black pepper can highlight the garlic's warmth and enhance the overall taste experience.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Cooking the pasta al dente is crucial for the perfect bite and to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce. Since bow tie pasta can vary in cooking times, start checking for doneness a minute or two before the package instructions suggest. You want the pasta to have a slight firmness to it, which will also allow it to absorb some of the sauce flavors without overcooking when tossed together.

When preparing the Alfredo sauce, ensure that the butter is melted over medium heat and never allowed to brown—this can impart an unwanted nutty flavor. The garlic needs to be sauted briefly just until fragrant; avoid browning it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter. Once you add the heavy cream, keep the heat medium to maintain a gentle simmer, allowing the cream to thicken without boiling vigorously, which could cause separation.

To ensure a well-combined dish, add the cooked pasta directly into the sauce skillet instead of combining it in a separate bowl. This will allow the pasta to soak up the sauce as it finishes cooking, resulting in a better flavor profile throughout the dish. Toss gently using tongs for even coating, and consider adding a splash of pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. This step also helps to achieve that desired creamy consistency without adding more fat.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Sauce

12 ounces bow tie pasta
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Add Spinach

Add the chopped spinach to the sauce and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Mix with Pasta

Add the cooked bow tie pasta to the skillet and toss until fully coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to ensure everything is heated through.

Serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese on top if desired.

Pro Tips

For a lighter version, consider substituting half-and-half for the heavy cream. Additionally, adding grilled chicken or shrimp can elevate the dish and provide extra protein.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're looking to save time, the Alfredo sauce can be prepared in advance. Simply create the sauce and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture. Freshly cooked pasta can be added right before serving, ensuring it’s all warm and delicious without compromising quality.

This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months. To freeze, allow the pasta and sauce to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Layering a piece of parchment paper between portions can help separate them for easier reheating. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid any separation.

For those who love meal prepping, consider doubling the recipe. It’s just as easy to make a larger batch as it is a single serving. This makes for convenient leftovers, ready to heat and eat on busy nights, making Bow Tie Pasta with Spinach Alfredo not just a meal but a culinary solution for your week.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To elevate your Bow Tie Pasta with Spinach Alfredo, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms. This not only increases the protein content but also adds different textures and flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes for a Mediterranean twist. These add not just taste but vibrant color, making the dish visually appealing as well.

For a bit of heat, don’t shy away from adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. This small addition can transform the comforting flavors into something more exciting, making it suitable for those who appreciate a kick. Serving alongside a simple arugula salad or crusty garlic bread can help balance the richness of the Alfredo sauce and round out the meal beautifully.

When it comes to garnishing, consider freshly chopped parsley or additional grated Parmesan cheese on top right before serving. This adds both a pop of color and enhances the overall presentation. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil can also impart a luxurious finish that complements the creamy sauce and spinach beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Any pasta shape will work, but I recommend using shapes that hold the sauce well, like penne or rotini.

→ 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, adding a splash of cream if needed.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian. You can also add more vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor.

→ What other herbs can I add for flavor?

Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can add great flavors! Just add them towards the end of cooking for the best aroma.