Name: Creamy Spinach Tomato Pasta for Cozy Weeknight Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Penne Pasta (can substitute with rigatoni or fusilli); 1 tbsp Olive Oil (or preferred cooking oil); 1 medium Onion (or shallots); 3 cloves Garlic (minced); 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes with adjusted cooking time); 2 cups Chicken Stock (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option); 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream (or half-and-half/plant-based cream); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (or nutritional yeast for dairy-free option); 4 cups Fresh Spinach (or kale); 1/4 cup Basil (or oregano); 1 tsp Black Pepper; 1 tsp Kosher Salt; 1/4 tsp Red Chili Flakes (optional)

As I stood in my kitchen, bathed in the golden glow of a late afternoon sun, the aroma of sautéing garlic filled the air—an instant reminder that comfort can be both effortless and delicious. Today, I’m excited to share my One-Pot Creamy Spinach Tomato Pasta, a dish that has quickly become a go-to for busy weeknights. This cozy meal marries fresh tomatoes with tender spinach, all tossed together in a creamy sauce spiked with just the right amount of spice. Not only is it a breeze to prepare, but it’s also a hearty vegetarian option that guarantees satisfaction for everyone at the dinner table. The simplicity and speed of this dish make it ideal for those evenings when time is tight, yet your craving for something wholesome calls. Curious how to whip up this nourishing delight in under 30 minutes? Let’s dive in!

Why is this pasta the ultimate comfort food?

Simplicity: This recipe requires just one pot, making cleanup a breeze while delivering deliciousness that feels gourmet.

Flavor Explosion: Fresh tomatoes and spinach create a vibrant canvas, enhanced by the creamy texture and aromatic garlic that will elevate your dinner experience.

Speedy Meal: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for last-minute dinner plans, keeping your weeknight stress-free.

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. You might also enjoy pairing it with a light salad or some warm garlic bread for a complete meal experience. For a healthier twist, check out this Healthy Broccoli Pasta.

Customization: Easily tweak the ingredients—add grilled chicken for protein, swap in kale if you prefer, or even adjust spices to make it your own!

Spinach Tomato Pasta Ingredients

• Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting dish!

For the Pasta

Penne Pasta – A perfect base for holding onto the creamy sauce; feel free to switch to any medium-sized pasta like rigatoni or fusilli.
Olive Oil – This adds richness and helps sauté the veggies; can easily be replaced with your preferred cooking oil.

For the Flavor Base

Onion – Adds depth and sweetness; shallots are a great alternative if you have them on hand.
Garlic – Essential for that aromatic kick; using fresh garlic will give the best flavor.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes – These pack concentrated tomato flavor; fresh tomatoes can work as a substitute, just adjust the cooking time.

For the Sauce

Chicken Stock – Lends depth and savory notes to the dish; for a vegetarian version, just swap in vegetable broth.
Heavy Whipping Cream – It gives the dish its luscious texture; opt for half-and-half or a plant-based cream for lighter alternatives.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds umami richness; nutritional yeast can be a delicious dairy-free alternative.

For the Freshness

Fresh Spinach – Vital for color and nutrition; kale could be used too, although it will need a bit longer to cook.
Basil – Brings a fresh, aromatic flavor; if you’re out of basil, oregano will do the trick.

For Seasoning

Black Pepper & Kosher Salt – Essential seasonings you can adjust according to taste.
Red Chili Flakes – Optional for an added kick; feel free to leave them out if you prefer a milder dish.

Now you have all the components for your Spinach Tomato Pasta. Let’s turn these ingredients into a cozy dinner your family will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spinach Tomato Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of sun-dried tomato oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 4–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion turns slightly brown and translucent. This step lays the flavorful foundation for your One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
With the onions softened, stir in the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook this mix for 2–3 minutes, ensuring that the garlic does not burn, as it can become bitter. You want the garlic to become fragrant and slightly golden, enhancing the taste of your pasta.

Step 3: Incorporate the Tomato Paste
Next, add tomato paste to the pot, stirring it into the aromatic mixture. Allow it to cook for an additional 2 minutes, letting it meld with the other ingredients, deepening the flavor profile of the sauce for your Spinach Tomato Pasta.

Step 4: Deglaze with Chicken Stock
Gradually pour in the chicken stock into the pot to deglaze it, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom. This should take about 1–2 minutes, helping to combine the flavors and build a rich sauce that will coat the pasta beautifully.

Step 5: Mix in the Cream and Seasonings
Pour in the heavy whipping cream, stirring to fully combine with the sauce. Season the mixture with black pepper, kosher salt, and optional red chili flakes. Cook for another few minutes on low-medium heat until it simmers gently, thickening up the sauce for your creamy Spinach Tomato Pasta.

Step 6: Add the Pasta
Now, add the penne pasta to the pot, ensuring it is well-coated with the sauce. Reduce the heat to low-medium and cook uncovered for approximately 10 minutes, stirring often to prevent the pasta from sticking. Observe until the pasta is about 75% cooked through, as it will continue to cook in the next steps.

Step 7: Incorporate Spinach and Basil
When the pasta reaches the desired doneness, stir in the fresh spinach and basil. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and blend into the pasta. The vibrant colors will make your Spinach Tomato Pasta even more inviting!

Step 8: Adjust the Consistency
If the pasta appears too thick, adjust the consistency by adding a splash of chicken stock or water. This ensures that the final dish remains creamy and light. Keep it on low heat while you prepare for the final touch.

Step 9: Finish with Parmesan
Finally, stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese until it melts and integrates into the pasta, bringing a rich umami depth to the dish. This last step transforms your One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta into a creamy, satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Spinach Tomato Pasta warm, topping with additional grated parmesan if desired and perhaps a sprinkle of fresh basil. This comforting dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a light salad, making for a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both quick and delightful.

What to Serve with One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta

Creating the perfect meal doesn’t just end with the main dish; it’s about building a balanced, delightful experience for your taste buds.

Garlic Bread: A classic pairing, warm garlic bread soaks up the creamy sauce, adding a buttery and aromatic crunch that elevates every bite.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the pasta’s rich flavors, making every forkful a balanced delight.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized, roasted vegetables add a sweet and savory touch that complements the comfort of your creamy pasta beautifully.
Fresh Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes and basil, this light appetizer brings a burst of fresh flavor to your meal, harmonizing perfectly with the dish.
Crisp White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio cuts through the creaminess, enhancing the overall dining experience with every sip.
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light lemon sorbet refreshes the palate after the rich pasta, providing a sweet yet tangy finish to your meal.
Grilled Chicken: For those looking to add protein, a side of grilled chicken served simply with seasoning doesn’t compete with the pasta but complements it beautifully.
Herbed Quinoa: Nutty quinoa with fresh herbs can serve as a hearty side that adds texture and nutrition without overpowering the delightful flavors of the pasta.

Expert Tips for Spinach Tomato Pasta

Perfect Pasta: Cook the pasta just al dente to avoid mushiness—reduce the package time by 1-2 minutes for best results.
Cream Care: Bring heavy cream to room temperature before adding; this helps prevent curdling and ensures a smooth sauce.
Sauté Right: Cook onions and garlic until they’re translucent and fragrant. Rushing leads to burnt garlic and lacking flavor.
Flavor Boost: Don’t skip on seasoning throughout the cooking process; tasting and adjusting as you go enhances the overall flavor of your Spinach Tomato Pasta.
Storage Savvy: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days; flavors improve after a day, making for a delightful next-day meal.

Spinach Tomato Pasta Variations

Feel free to experiment with these ideas to make this delicious dish your own!

Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and parmesan for a vegan version.
Protein Boost: Toss in grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein; they pair beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Pasta Shape Swap: Change up the texture by using other short pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle—each will bring its own charm.
Extra Veggies: Add zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a colorful and nutritious twist. It enhances both the flavor and visual appeal!
Spice it Up: Increase the heat by adding jalapeño or a spicier variety of chili flakes, perfect for those who love a bold kick.
Herb Elevation: Swap fresh basil for arugula or use a combination of fresh herbs like thyme and oregano for deeper flavors.
Citrus Zing: A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving brightens up the dish and adds a refreshing touch.
Nutty Twist: Integrate toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added texture and a delightful crunch, making every bite a new experience.

The beauty of this Healthy Broccoli Pasta lies in its adaptability. Customize it as you like for a meal that speaks to your tastes and cravings!

How to Store and Freeze Spinach Tomato Pasta

Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days; the flavors will actually improve after a day.

Freezer: Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to bring back creaminess and moisture.

Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid keeping Spinach Tomato Pasta at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure freshness and safety.

Make Ahead Options

These One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop and sauté the onions, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes up to 24 hours in advance, allowing their flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, the spinach can be washed and prepped for cooking, ready to toss in when it’s time to finish the dish. When you’re ready to serve, simply add the chicken stock, cream, and pasta, then proceed as per the recipe instructions. To maintain quality, store prepped ingredients in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, homemade meal on busier nights with minimal effort!

One-Pot Creamy Spinach Tomato Pasta Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to choose ripe tomatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting tomatoes, look for those that have a vibrant red color, firm yet slightly yielding to gentle pressure. Avoid those with dark spots or blemishes, which can indicate overripeness. If possible, go for heirloom varieties for added flavor, or choose grape tomatoes for a sweet burst in every bite.

How do I store leftover Spinach Tomato Pasta?
Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It’s a good idea to let the pasta cool down to room temperature before sealing it to maintain freshness. Reheating the dish is simple—just warm it up on the stovetop with a splash of chicken stock or water to revive the creamy texture.

Can I freeze Spinach Tomato Pasta?
Certainly! To freeze your one-pot wonder, transfer it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Make sure to remove excess air before sealing. The pasta will stay good for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of liquid for creaminess.

What should I do if my pasta turns mushy?
Very! If you find that your pasta becomes mushy, it’s usually a sign it was overcooked. To prevent this, reduce the cooking time by 1-2 minutes from the package instructions. Always keep an eye on the pasta and test it for doneness a minute or two before the suggested time. If you do end up with mushy pasta, consider adding more fresh ingredients or a splash of cream to enhance texture.

Is this Spinach Tomato Pasta suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! This comforting dish is vegetarian-friendly, featuring rich flavors from the creamy sauce and veggies. For a vegan option, simply swap heavy cream for a plant-based cream and skip the cheese, or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Just be sure to check that your pasta is egg-free if sticking to strict vegetarian or vegan guidelines.

How long can I safely keep Spinach Tomato Pasta at room temperature?
It’s best to avoid leaving your Spinach Tomato Pasta out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety. If you’re serving it for a gathering, keep it warm in a chafing dish or slow cooker on low heat. If it has been sitting out longer than this, it’s advisable to discard any uneaten portions.