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 cups fresh spinach; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Highlighted under: Fresh & Nourishing

I absolutely love whipping up Bow Tie Pasta with Spinach Alfredo for a comforting meal that everyone adores. The velvety Alfredo sauce combined with tender spinach creates a satisfying dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Every time I prepare this recipe, I find it’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also a fantastic way to sneak in some greens for an extra nutritional boost. Whether it's a family dinner or a cozy night in, this pasta always delivers on flavor and satisfaction.

Created by

Lillian Hayes

Last updated on 2026-02-28T10:57:41.651Z

When I first made Bow Tie Pasta with Spinach Alfredo, I was trying to recreate a dish I had at a favorite restaurant. After experimenting with the sauce, I found that a blend of cream, garlic, and Parmesan creates that rich flavor everyone craves. Adding fresh spinach not only elevates the dish but also gives it a beautiful color that makes it irresistible.

I discovered that cooking the pasta until al dente is key for the perfect texture, ensuring each bite holds just the right amount of sauce. Don't skip adding a hint of nutmeg to the sauce; it adds a lovely warmth that rounds out the dish beautifully!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy Alfredo sauce enveloping every bow tie pasta
Fresh spinach adding a delightful pop of color and nutrients
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this dish, bow tie pasta, also known as farfalle, is perfect for capturing the rich Alfredo sauce thanks to its unique shape. When cooking the pasta, aim for al dente texture; it should be firm to the bite yet tender enough to mix well with the sauce. Overcooking leads to mushy pasta, which can disrupt the overall dish’s texture. Setting a timer for a minute or two less than the package instructions is a wise strategy to avoid this.

Fresh spinach is not just a visual delight; it also brings added nutrition and texture to the dish. When added to the hot Alfredo sauce, the spinach wilts down significantly, infusing the dish with its subtle earthy flavor. For a more intense green color and flavor, consider sautéing the spinach briefly in olive oil before incorporating it into the sauce. If fresh spinach is unavailable, frozen spinach can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

Perfecting the Alfredo Sauce

The Alfredo sauce in this recipe relies heavily on the balance between the butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. Begin by melting the butter over medium heat, being careful not to let it brown; this can impart an unwanted nutty flavor. Once the butter is melted, the minced garlic should be added, sautéed just until fragrant to avoid bitterness. The key is to keep the heat moderate to ensure the cream comes to a gentle simmer without boiling, which can cause it to curdle.

When adding the heavy cream, stirring constantly helps to incorporate air, enhancing the sauce's creaminess. As you stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, it should melt smoothly without clumping. If your sauce appears too thick, a splash of pasta water can be added to reach your desired consistency. On the flip side, if your sauce feels too thin, let it simmer a bit longer until it thickens slightly.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Bow Tie Pasta with Spinach Alfredo:

Ingredients

12 oz bow tie pasta
2 cups fresh spinach
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

With your ingredients in hand, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Bow Tie Pasta with Spinach Alfredo:

Cook the Pasta

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

Make the Alfredo Sauce

In a pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta and fresh spinach to the Alfredo sauce, stirring to coat everything evenly. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to your taste.

Serve

Plate the pasta warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your creamy and delightful dish!

Your Bow Tie Pasta with Spinach Alfredo is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken or vegetable broth without sacrificing too much creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

For a touch of freshness, I recommend garnishing the finished dish with freshly cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of chopped parsley. A few red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick if you enjoy a slightly spicy flavor. Consider pairing this pasta with a side salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the Alfredo sauce.

You could even transform this dish into a more substantial meal by adding protein such as grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy pancetta. If you go this route, remember to adjust your cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is properly cooked through.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Bow Tie Pasta with Spinach Alfredo can be prepared in advance, making it a great option for meal prepping. You can cook the pasta and make the sauce up to a day ahead. Store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat the pasta lightly then mix with the sauce over low heat, adding a bit of additional cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.

If you're looking to freeze leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Although the texture may alter slightly after freezing and reheating, the flavors will remain delicious. It's best to consume frozen pasta dishes within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any other type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute bow tie pasta with penne, fettuccine, or any pasta of your choice.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for the sauce?

Yes, you can replace the Parmesan cheese with a plant-based alternative to make it vegetarian.

→ How long does leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the Alfredo sauce?

Alfredo sauce can be frozen, but it may change in texture when thawed. It's best enjoyed fresh.