Bow Tie Pasta With Spinach Alfredo

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Spinach Alfredo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz bow tie pasta; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Dish Collection

I absolutely love making Bow Tie Pasta with Spinach Alfredo! It’s a creamy, comforting dish that brings the delightful flavors of fresh spinach and rich Alfredo sauce together. The bow tie pasta holds onto the sauce perfectly, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether I’m cooking for a quick weeknight meal or impressing guests at a dinner party, this dish never fails to please. Plus, it can be made in under 30 minutes, which is a total win in my book!

Created by

Megan Douglas

Last updated on 2026-02-28T01:17:35.376Z

When I first tried making pasta with spinach Alfredo, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to create such a creamy, decadent dish at home. I used fresh spinach, which really elevates the flavor profile and adds a nutritional boost. To make the sauce extra smooth, I blended it briefly before tossing it in with the cooked pasta.

One major tip I have is to reserve a bit of pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water is a game changer for adjusting the sauce's consistency without diluting the flavors. The result is a perfect harmony of creamy and flavorful that my whole family enjoys!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy Alfredo sauce with a hint of garlic and fresh spinach.
Bow tie pasta captures the sauce beautifully in every bite.
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights!

      

Perfectly Cooking Bow Tie Pasta

Bow tie pasta, or farfalle, is not only visually appealing but also a great choice for this creamy dish because its unique shape holds onto the Alfredo sauce exceptionally well. To achieve the best texture, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. This enhances the flavor of the pasta itself. Aim for an al dente finish, which typically takes around 7-10 minutes, depending on the brand. Be sure to reserve that half cup of pasta water; it’s a game-changer for adjusting the sauce's consistency later!

While draining the pasta, avoid rinsing it. A light layer of starch on the pasta helps the Alfredo sauce cling beautifully, creating a luscious mouthfeel. If you overcook the pasta, it can become mushy and will not pair well with the rich sauce. Keep a close eye on the timer and taste for doneness a minute before the package says—it should have a slight bite to it.

Crafting the Creamy Alfredo Sauce

The quality of the heavy cream you choose directly influences the richness of your Alfredo sauce. For a luxurious mouthfeel, opt for a brand that is at least 36% fat content. As you melt the butter and sauté the garlic, ensure the garlic doesn't brown—this can introduce a bitter taste. You want it just until fragrant, usually around one minute at medium heat, before adding the cream.

After incorporating the cream, keep an eye on the heat. You want it to simmer gently; a rolling boil can cause the cream to split. As the sauce thickens, it should have a glossy, velvety appearance. If you find the sauce too thick, gradually stir in your reserved pasta water. This also helps the sauce meld seamlessly with the pasta. Always remember to taste and season generously with salt and freshly cracked pepper before serving.

Time-Saving Tips and Serving Suggestions

If you're in a pinch for time, you can prepare the Alfredo sauce while the pasta cooks. This multitasking approach means you can serve the dish in around 20 minutes. For an added flavor boost, consider infusing the sauce with a pinch of nutmeg or even a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving to brighten the dish up. It’s a small twist that elevates the creamy sauce magnificently.

Serving suggestion: Pair your Bow Tie Pasta with Spinach Alfredo with a simple side salad or crusty garlic bread to round out the meal. For those looking to incorporate more protein, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp can be tossed in just before serving, making it a heartier option that still respects the delicate balance of flavors in the dish. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—simply reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream to revive that creamy texture.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious meal!

Ingredients

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

With your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious dish!

Cook the Pasta

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

Make the Alfredo Sauce

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

Add Spinach and Cheese

Stir in the chopped spinach and grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce. Toss everything together, gradually using reserved pasta water to achieve desired sauce consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Your delicious Bow Tie Pasta with Spinach Alfredo is ready to serve!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or grilled chicken into the dish. These enhance the overall richness and can make the dish more filling.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of cheese in this recipe is vital for achieving the perfect Alfredo sauce. While Parmesan cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or even add a bit of cream cheese for an ultra-creamy finish. When shredding cheese, doing it fresh rather than pre-packaged helps it melt more smoothly, allowing for a luxuriously consistent sauce.

Fresh spinach is not only nutrient-dense but also adds a beautiful earthy flavor and stunning color contrast against the creamy sauce. If fresh spinach isn't available, you can substitute with frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and drain excess water to prevent a watery sauce. Another alternative is kale, which offers a sturdier texture if you prefer it in your dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

To save time on busy days, you can prepare the Alfredo sauce ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat it gently in a skillet, adding a bit of water or additional cream to bring it back to life. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze without sacrificing flavor.

If you're considering freezing leftovers, it’s best to store the pasta and sauce separately. The sauce can be frozen in individual portions, allowing you to thaw just what you need. When reheating, do so slowly over low heat to maintain the sauce's creamy texture and prevent separation. Note that while the pasta can be frozen, it may lose some texture quality once thawed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach! Just thaw it and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the sauce.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

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

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

To make this dish vegan, use a dairy-free cream, nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, and omit the butter.

→ Can I add protein to the pasta?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas would complement the sauce beautifully.