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 oz bow tie pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 4 cups fresh spinach; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Clean & Healthy

I absolutely adore making Bow Tie Pasta with Spinach Alfredo for a comforting dinner. The combination of pasta, creamy Alfredo sauce, and fresh spinach creates a delightful meal that feels indulgent yet simple. I love the way the bow tie shape holds onto the sauce, making every bite rich and satisfying. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish transforms a regular evening into a special occasion for my family. We enjoy it with a sprinkle of parmesan and a touch of fresh herbs to brighten everything up!

Created by

Helena Wright

Last updated on 2026-02-24T03:25:39.174Z

When I first made Bow Tie Pasta with Spinach Alfredo, I was on a mission to create a meal that was both quick and flavorful. I chose bow tie pasta for its unique shape that adds a fun twist to the dish. The creamy sauce is a breeze to whip up, and the addition of spinach not only gives a pop of color but also enhances the nutritional value.

During my experiments, I discovered that using freshly grated Parmesan made a significant difference in flavor compared to pre-packaged options. This simple switch elevates the dish from good to extraordinary, making it a weeknight favorite in my home.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy, dreamy Alfredo sauce that envelops the pasta perfectly
Nutritious spinach adds a pop of color and flavor
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

Cooking the Perfect Pasta

To achieve the ideal pasta texture, it’s essential to include plenty of salt in your boiling water—this helps flavor the pasta, enhancing the overall dish. Aim for about 1-2 tablespoons of salt per gallon of water. Once the pasta is added, stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook until just al dente, which should be 1-2 minutes less than the package directions, as it will continue to cook when combined with the sauce.

When draining the pasta, consider reserving a cup of the pasta water. This starchy liquid can be a secret weapon for adjusting the sauce consistency later if it ends up too thick. The goal is for the pasta to hold on to the sauce beautifully while remaining separate and distinct. If your pasta sticks together after draining, a quick toss with a drizzle of olive oil can help prevent clumping.

The Role of Spinach in the Dish

The spinach in this recipe not only adds a vibrant color but also boosts the nutritional profile of the meal with vitamins A and K, as well as iron. Fresh spinach is preferred for its tender texture and mild flavor—typically, young spinach leaves wilting quickly and incorporating well into the creamy Alfredo sauce. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute with thawed frozen spinach, but ensure it's well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.

As the spinach cooks in the hot sauce, it releases some moisture and flavors that meld beautifully with the richness of the cream and Parmesan. Aim for just 2-3 minutes of cooking after adding the spinach, enough for it to wilt but still maintain some structure and vibrant green color. Overcooking could lead to a mushy texture and loss of nutrients, which we definitely want to avoid.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Though Bow Tie Pasta with Spinach Alfredo is delicious as is, it’s versatile and lends itself to many additional toppings and variations. Consider adding sautéed mushrooms or grilled chicken for extra protein, or even a handful of toasted pine nuts for added crunch. For a zestier flavor, a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up the dish, balancing the creaminess perfectly.

When serving, a light sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and extra Parmesan on top elevates the visual appeal and taste. If you have some on hand, a sprinkle of chili flakes will add a delightful kick. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings, and can be easily scaled up if you're expecting more guests.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz bow tie pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Spinach Alfredo Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
4 cups fresh spinach
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Steps

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.

Sauté Garlic

In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and add minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but do not let it brown.

Make the Alfredo Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring until melted and smooth.

Add Spinach

Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained bow tie pasta to the sauce, tossing to combine thoroughly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until heated through.

Serve

Plate the pasta and sauce, garnishing with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your delicious homemade Bow Tie Pasta with Spinach Alfredo!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce. It complements the creamy texture beautifully!

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to serve this dish later, you can prepare the Alfredo sauce in advance. Simply make the sauce and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, reheat over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen it up before combining with freshly cooked pasta.

The pasta can be cooked and tossed with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Store separately, and then combine just before serving. For maximum quality, avoid combining the sauce and pasta until you're ready to serve, as this will help maintain the sauce's creamy texture and prevent the pasta from becoming overly soft.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your Alfredo sauce is too thick, don't worry—you can easily adjust the texture by adding more heavy cream or reserved pasta water gradually until you reach the desired consistency. It should be luxuriously creamy, not clumpy. Stir well to ensure even distribution and prevent solidifying as it cools.

In case your sauce curdles, this might be due to cooking it at too high a heat. If this happens, try lowering the temperature and whisking vigorously to bring the emulsification back together. If it still doesn’t come together, you can blend the sauce to smooth it out, which can save your dish from being discarded altogether.

Ingredient Substitutions

In place of heavy cream, you can use half-and-half for a lighter version, but keep in mind the sauce won't be as rich. Alternatively, for a dairy-free option, coconut cream works well, adding a unique flavor. Just make sure to choose a quality brand to avoid overly sweet notes.

For the cheese, if you don’t have Parmesan, pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can provide a similar umami flavor. Adjust the salt accordingly, as some alternatives might be saltier than Parmesan. Experimenting with different cheeses can lead to delightful variations of this classic dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole grain pasta?

Absolutely! Whole grain pasta works well and adds additional fiber.

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply omit any meat and enjoy the creamy sauce and spinach as is!

→ Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, the sauce can be made ahead of time and reheated gently before serving.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add broccoli, peas, or even mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.