One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta Recipe

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If you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta is exactly what you need. Imagine tender penne pasta simmered right in a creamy, tomato-rich sauce, bursting with the vibrant flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and fragrant basil. This recipe is a brilliant blend of simplicity and indulgence, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick, comforting, and utterly delicious—all made in just one pot. Trust me, once you try this One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta, it might just become your go-to dinner that brings both ease and wow-factor to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta comes from a handful of simple yet vibrant ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating that rich flavor and satisfying texture. From creamy heavy cream to the punchy sun-dried tomatoes, every component is essential to turning basic pantry staples into a comforting masterpiece.

• 14 ounces penne pasta: The perfect shape to soak up all the delicious sauce and hold just the right bite.
• 4 cups chicken stock: Adds depth and richness to the sauce, making every bite savory and full-bodied.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Provides the foundational sweetness and aromatic base for the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Brings velvety creaminess that turns the pasta into pure comfort food.
• 4 to 5 ounces fresh spinach: Adds a fresh, vibrant green element and a slight earthiness to balance the tomatoes.
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil, chopped: Packs a concentrated, tangy tomato punch that elevates the whole dish.
• 1/2 cup freshly shredded parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a nutty, savory finish.
• 1 tablespoon sun-dried tomato oil: Infuses the sauce with extra tomato flavor and a subtle richness.
• 1/3 cup tomato paste: Thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor.
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes: Adds just a little kick of heat to complement the creamy sauce.
• 5 garlic cloves, minced: Boosts the aroma and flavor with its unmistakable garlicky goodness.
• 1/4 cup fresh basil: Brings bright, herbaceous notes that brighten every forkful.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle peppery warmth to round out the seasoning.

How to Make One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating your pot over medium-high heat and adding the sun-dried tomato oil. This oil is where the sauce begins to develop its deep, sunny tomato flavor, setting the stage for something truly special. Add the chopped onion next and cook until it softens and just begins to brown, releasing its sweetness. Then in go the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Stir constantly for a few minutes so the garlic doesn’t burn but instead infuses the oil with its aromatic punch. To intensify those robust tomato flavors even more, stir in the tomato paste and cook it for a couple of minutes, allowing it to caramelize slightly, which really boosts the overall richness of the sauce.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

With the flavor base ready, it’s time to bring the sauce to life by slowly adding the chicken stock. Pour it in carefully and stir well to deglaze the pot—this means lifting those browned bits off the bottom and mixing them into the sauce, giving it that extra burst of flavor. Next, pour in the heavy whipping cream and stir everything together so the sauce becomes luxuriously creamy and smooth. Season with the kosher salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes, stirring to incorporate those spices evenly. This stage transforms those simple ingredients into a creamy, dreamy sauce that coats every piece of pasta perfectly.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Now it’s time to add the star of the show: the penne pasta. Stir it into the bubbling sauce, making sure all the pasta pieces get coated. Reduce the heat to low-medium and let the pasta cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The beauty of the One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta is that the noodles absorb all those fantastic flavors while cooking right in the sauce. Aim for about 75% doneness here—your pasta should still have a bit of bite as it will continue cooking in the next steps.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Complete Cooking

Once your pasta is tender but not mushy, stir in the fresh spinach and basil. The vibrant greens will start to wilt immediately, adding a fresh pop of color and nutrition. If the sauce feels too thick or the spinach soaks up too much liquid, just splash in a little extra water or chicken stock to keep everything silky and saucy. Finally, sprinkle in the freshly shredded parmesan cheese and stir until it melts and blends seamlessly into the sauce, creating a perfectly balanced, creamy texture that ties the whole dish together beautifully.

Step 5: Finalize and Serve

Turn off the heat and give the pasta one last hearty stir to mix everything thoroughly. The sauce should coat every piece of penne, and the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes should be scattered throughout, creating a colorful and inviting dish. Ladle the One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta into bowls and, if you want to make it a heartier meal, top with grilled chicken or your favorite protein. This dish is pure comfort in every spoonful, so dig in right away and enjoy the creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors all mingling perfectly together.

How to Serve One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta

Garnishes

To make your One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta look as good as it tastes, top each serving with a generous sprinkle of extra freshly grated parmesan and a few torn basil leaves for that pop of color and fragrance. A drizzle of good quality olive oil or a pinch of red chili flakes can add a touch of elegance and an extra kick if you like things spicy. The garnishes not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide subtle complementary flavors.

Side Dishes

This pasta dish is quite rich and filling, but pairing it with something light and fresh can balance the meal wonderfully. A crisp green side salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a simple cucumber and tomato salad is perfect. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread is also a terrific option, ideal for sopping up any leftover creamy sauce still clinging to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving this at a casual dinner party or just want to jazz up the presentation, consider plating the One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta in individual shallow bowls and topping each portion with a small nest of extra fresh spinach or a basil sprig. You could also bake it briefly with a sprinkling of shredded mozzarella or parmesan on top to create a golden, bubbly crust. This adds a lovely texture contrast and a touch of dish sophistication that’s sure to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta keeps really well in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors tend to meld even more after sitting a day or two, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy evenings. Just be sure to give it a good stir before reheating to redistribute the creamy sauce evenly.

Freezing

You can freeze this pasta, but because of the fresh spinach and cream, the texture might shift slightly after thawing. If you plan to freeze, place portions in a freezer-safe container and consume within 2 months for the best flavor. To preserve the dish’s integrity, freeze before adding the fresh spinach, then stir in fresh greens after reheating.

Reheating

When reheating your One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta, do so gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of chicken stock, cream, or water to bring back its creamy consistency. This slow and careful reheating keeps the pasta tender and prevents the sauce from separating.

FAQs

Can I use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock?

Absolutely! Vegetable stock works wonderfully in this recipe and keeps it vegetarian-friendly. It may result in a slightly different but equally delicious flavor profile that still complements the creamy tomato sauce beautifully.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind these swaps might make the sauce a little less rich but still tasty and creamy.

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes! While penne is ideal because of its shape and texture, feel free to experiment with rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as needed and keep an eye on the pasta’s doneness.

How spicy is the One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta?

The recipe calls for red chili flakes which add a mild heat to balance the creaminess without overpowering it. You can always adjust the amount up or down depending on your spice preference or omit it entirely for a milder dish.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! To create a vegan version, use vegetable stock, a plant-based cream substitute like cashew cream, and vegan parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast. The flavors will still be deliciously rich and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta truly combines the best of quick cooking and indulgent flavor, making it a recipe you’ll want to keep handy for all those nights when you crave something comforting but fuss-free. It’s a beautiful balance of creamy, tangy, fresh, and spicy all in one bowl, with minimal cleanup. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and experience how perfectly simple ingredients come together to create something so incredibly delicious. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

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