One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s as comforting as it is vibrant, this One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine tender penne pasta bathed in a luxuriously creamy sauce that balances sun-dried tomatoes with fresh spinach, all cooked together in a single pot—meaning less cleanup and maximum flavor. With every forkful, you’ll enjoy the perfect blend of tangy tomato, aromatic garlic, fresh basil, and a gentle kick from red chili flakes, all finished off with a generous sprinkle of parmesan. It’s a brilliant marriage of simple ingredients resulting in an unforgettable meal, ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting together the ingredients for this recipe is a joy because each one plays a key role in building the flavors and textures that make this dish so special. From the hearty penne pasta to the fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, you’ll see how these essentials come together beautifully.

• 14 ounces penne pasta: This sturdy pasta shape holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
• 4 cups chicken stock: Adds depth and richness, making the sauce savory and satisfying without overpowering.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Provides a sweet and aromatic base when sautéed, crucial for flavor layering.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Gives the sauce its irresistible creaminess and luxurious mouthfeel.
• 4 to 5 ounces fresh spinach: Adds freshness, color, and a slight earthiness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil, chopped: Brings intense, concentrated tomato flavor with a hint of sweetness and tang.
• 1/2 cup freshly shredded parmesan cheese: Introduces a nutty, salty finish that binds the sauce and pasta together beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon sun-dried tomato oil: Used for sautéing to infuse the dish with extra tomato richness.
• 1/3 cup tomato paste: Boosts the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce for that perfect coating consistency.
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes: Adds a subtle warmth and gentle heat to enliven the dish.
• 5 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the sauce with its signature aroma and depth of flavor.
• 1/4 cup fresh basil: Brings herbaceous brightness and a touch of sweetness that lifts the whole dish.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the natural flavors.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right bite and complexity.

How to Make One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start off by heating your pot over medium-high heat and adding a tablespoon of that fragrant sun-dried tomato oil. Once warm, toss in your chopped onion and cook it until it turns a lovely golden brown, releasing its natural sweetness. Then, add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, stirring frequently so nothing burns and the garlic becomes beautifully aromatic. Finish this step by folding in the tomato paste and letting it cook for a couple more minutes, which intensifies the tomato flavor and starts building the sauce’s depth.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Next, slowly pour in the chicken stock to deglaze the pan—this means loosening all those flavorful bits stuck to the bottom, which adds an incredible depth to your sauce. Once everything is smoothly combined, stir in the heavy whipping cream; this will transform your sauce into a creamy, dreamy masterpiece. Now, it’s time to season with kosher salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes. Stir well so all those seasonings melt into the sauce harmoniously.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

This is where the magic of the One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta Recipe really shines. Add the penne pasta straight into the pot and stir to coat each piece with the luscious sauce. Reduce the heat to low-medium and let the pasta cook, uncovered, for about 10 minutes. Make sure to stir frequently—that’s the trick to prevent sticking and to cook the pasta evenly. Keep an eye on it as you want it about 75% done at this stage so it can finish cooking with the greens and cheese.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Complete Cooking

Once your pasta nears perfect tenderness, add the fresh spinach and basil to the pot. They’ll wilt down quickly, adding a vibrant pop of green along with fresh, herbaceous notes. If it seems like the spinach absorbs too much liquid and the sauce looks too thick, simply splash in a little more water or chicken stock. Finally, stir in the shredded parmesan cheese—watch it melt seamlessly into the sauce, giving it that signature silky, cheesy finish.

Step 5: Finalize and Serve

Turn off the heat and give the pasta one last loving stir to ensure everything is beautifully combined and velvety. Serve your glorious One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta Recipe hot, right from the pot, or transfer into individual bowls. For an extra touch of protein, grilled chicken on top is an excellent choice. And then? Dive in and enjoy every comforting, creamy bite!

How to Serve One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little extra freshly grated parmesan or a handful of torn fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of color and flavor. Cracked black pepper and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil can also elevate the dish beautifully. If you like a bit more texture, toasted pine nuts add a wonderful crunch and nutty undertone.

Side Dishes

This pasta is rich and filling, so lighter sides work best. A crisp mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a simple arugula salad with shaved parmesan and balsamic glaze provides a refreshing contrast. Crusty garlic bread or a warm focaccia can be perfect for mopping up any extra sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve the pasta in shallow bowls and garnish with microgreens or edible flowers to impress your guests with flair. You can also plate it as a layered pasta bake by adding some mozzarella on top, finishing it under the broiler until bubbly and golden. For a casual family meal, serve it right from the pot with an extra sprinkle of parmesan and fresh basil on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors only deepen overnight, making it a perfect next-day meal. Just give it a good stir before storing.

Freezing

This One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta Recipe freezes well, although the texture of the spinach might soften slightly after thawing. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Gently reheat the pasta over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or chicken stock if it appears too thick. Stir frequently to restore creaminess and prevent sticking. The dish heats up quickly and keeps its luscious texture when warmed carefully.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne is great for holding onto the sauce, you can swap in fusilli, rigatoni, or even farfalle. Just keep the cooking time in mind as it may vary slightly depending on the pasta shape.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

To keep it vegetarian, simply replace chicken stock with vegetable broth and omit any meat toppings like grilled chicken. The rich sauce and vegetables make it hearty enough to satisfy without meat.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative and substitute parmesan with nutritional yeast. The result will still be creamy and delicious with just a slight twist in flavor.

How spicy is the pasta with the red chili flakes?

The red chili flakes add a mild warmth that gently awakens the palate without overwhelming the other flavors. You can adjust the amount to your liking—skip it if you prefer no heat or add more for a bolder kick.

What can I add to make this recipe more filling?

Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy bacon bits make fantastic protein additions to bulk up this meal. You can also mix in white beans or chickpeas for a vegetarian protein boost.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta Recipe is a treasure for anyone who loves meals that are comforting, flavorful, and fuss-free. It combines everyday ingredients into a rich, creamy dish that feels both indulgent and homey. Whether you’re feeding family or treating yourself, this pasta will quickly become one of those go-to recipes you’ll want to make again and again. Trust me, once you try it, there’s no going back!

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