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; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Favorites

I love making Bow Tie Pasta With Spinach Alfredo during busy weeknights because it’s not only delicious but also remarkably quick to prepare. The creamy Alfredo sauce enriches the pasta, while fresh spinach infuses vibrant color and a pop of nutrition. As a busy cook, I appreciate dishes that come together in 30 minutes or less, and this one does the trick while still feeling indulgent. Trust me, it’s the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor that will make everyone crave seconds.

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-02-27T17:41:34.735Z

Cooking Bow Tie Pasta With Spinach Alfredo has become a beloved tradition in my household, especially when I want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. I remember the first time I made this dish for friends; they couldn’t believe how quickly I threw it together. It was a hit! One tip I’ve learned is to sauté the spinach slightly before adding it to the sauce. This enhances its flavor and ensures that it maintains a lovely vibrant green color.

Another reason I adore this recipe is the versatility it offers. You can easily add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein or even toss in some sun-dried tomatoes for a flavor boost. The creamy Alfredo sauce, made from scratch, really elevates this dish; it’s nothing like store-bought! I like to finish it off with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a dash of black pepper for an added kick.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy and rich Alfredo sauce that envelops each pasta piece
Fresh spinach adds a nutritious and colorful touch
Quick preparation time makes it perfect for last-minute dinners

Choosing the Right Pasta

Bow tie pasta, or farfalle, is wonderfully suited for creamy sauces like Alfredo due to its unique shape, which captures the sauce beautifully. This means every bite is full of flavor. If you can’t find bow tie pasta, feel free to substitute with penne or fusilli, which also hold onto the sauce well. Just ensure to adjust cooking times according to the new pasta, as different shapes have varying al dente timings.

When cooking the pasta, don’t forget to salt the water generously. This enhances the flavor of the pasta itself, making it a perfect canvas for the rich Alfredo sauce. Pay attention to the cooking time on the box; undercook it by one minute, as it will continue cooking once combined with the sauce, ensuring a perfect texture.

Making the Alfredo Sauce

The Alfredo sauce is at its best when it is freshly made and combined with the pasta. Start by simmering the cream gently and avoid boiling it; this prevents the sauce from splitting and gives it a smooth, glossy texture. Once you add the Parmesan, stir continuously until it melts completely for a creamy consistency. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add in the reserved pasta water, about a quarter cup at a time, until you reach your desired creaminess.

Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of the pre-packaged kind significantly enhances the flavor of the sauce. Freshly grated cheese melts better and creates a richer taste. If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano can be a great substitute, adding a sharper flavor profile to this dish.

Ingredients

For the Bow Tie Pasta

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

Ensure all ingredients are measured and ready before you start cooking for a smoother preparation experience.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Sauté the Garlic and Spinach

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.

Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the sauce thickens. If needed, add reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

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

For an added touch, try garnishing with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor of your Alfredo sauce, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of white wine while it's cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Bow Tie Pasta With Spinach Alfredo is delightful on its own but pairs wonderfully with a light garden salad to balance the richness. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or some sun-dried tomatoes can provide an extra layer of flavor and texture if you’re looking to enhance the dish further. For a protein boost, grilled chicken or shrimp can be added, incorporated seamlessly into the pasta with just a minute of reheating.

Considering garnishes, a dusting of freshly cracked black pepper elevates the flavor profile beautifully. You can also add a touch of nutmeg for warmth; just a pinch will do, ensuring it doesn’t overpower the creamy base.

Storage and Reheating

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or remaining pasta water to loosen the sauce, as it tends to thicken when refrigerated. Microwave in short increments, stirring in between, or reheat on the stovetop over low heat to preserve the sauce's creaminess.

If you plan on making it ahead of time, consider cooking the pasta and sauce separately. Store them in the fridge and combine them just before serving; this helps maintain the pasta's texture and prevents it from becoming mushy. You can also freeze the Alfredo sauce in an airtight container for up to a month; simply thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape will work, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative, but the sauce may be less creamy.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and pasta separately and combine them just before serving for the best texture.

→ How can I add more protein?

Consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a protein boost!