One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta Recipe

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If you’re craving a comforting, vibrant meal that comes together with minimal fuss, then you absolutely have to try this One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta. This dish is a luscious blend of creamy tomato sauce, tender penne, and fresh spinach all cooked harmoniously in a single pot, making cleanup just as effortless as the cooking process. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate, bursting with rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and basil, perfectly balanced with just the right amount of spice and cheesy goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta comes from a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one adds not only flavor but also texture and color, creating a dish that’s as stunning to look at as it is delightful to eat.

• 14 ounces penne pasta: The perfect pasta shape to soak up all that creamy sauce and hold onto the spinach and tomatoes between every bite.
• 4 cups chicken stock: Adds depth and savory richness to the sauce while helping cook the pasta.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Builds a sweet, aromatic base when sautéed that enhances the entire dish.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Gives the sauce its indulgent, velvety texture that makes this pasta incredibly satisfying.
• 4 to 5 ounces fresh spinach: Adds a fresh, bright green color and a nutrient-packed pop of earthiness.
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil, chopped: Brings a concentrated burst of tangy, slightly sweet flavor that’s unmistakable and vibrant.
• 1/2 cup freshly shredded parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that melds all the flavors together beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon sun-dried tomato oil: Intensifies the tomato flavor right from the start and helps sauté the vegetables to perfection.
• 1/3 cup tomato paste: Thickens the sauce and deepens the tomato flavor with a rich umami boost.
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes: Adds just enough heat to keep things interesting without overpowering the dish.
• 5 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the sauce with an irresistible aromatic warmth that complements every ingredient.
• 1/4 cup fresh basil: Provides a sweet, herbal brightness that lifts the whole dish.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the other flavors.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick of spice and balance to the richness.

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 packed with flavor and sets a delicious foundation for the dish. Once warm, toss in the chopped onion and sauté until it’s slightly browned and softened, releasing a sweet aroma that’s simply irresistible. Next, add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, stirring frequently to prevent burning and to help all these fragrant ingredients meld together in the pot. Finish this step with the tomato paste, cooking it for a couple of minutes so it thickens and infuses the base with a rich tomato essence.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Now, slowly pour in the chicken stock while stirring to deglaze the pot, lifting all those lovely browned bits from the bottom. This step adds a beautiful depth to the sauce. Follow this with the heavy whipping cream, which turns the tomato base into a creamy, dreamy sauce that coats every piece of pasta perfectly. Season generously with black pepper, kosher salt, and red chili flakes to balance the creamy richness with just a bit of heat and complexity.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Add the penne straight into the pot and stir to combine it thoroughly with the luscious sauce. Turn the heat down to low-medium and leave the pot uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring often to ensure even cooking. Watch as the pasta absorbs the flavorful sauce, cooking to about 75% doneness so it retains a perfect al dente bite by the end.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Complete Cooking

Now it’s time to add the fresh spinach and basil. The warmth of the pot will quickly wilt the spinach, transforming it into a tender green blanket that adds freshness and nutrients. If the sauce starts to thicken too much, just add a touch more water or chicken stock to keep everything smooth and saucy. Once the spinach is fully wilted, stir in the shredded parmesan cheese until it melts seamlessly throughout the pasta, enriching the sauce with its savory, nutty character.

Step 5: Finalize and Serve

Switch off the heat and give everything one last good stir to ensure all the ingredients are creamy and well blended. Scoop this gorgeous pasta into bowls, allowing the warm creaminess and vibrant colors to greet you. For a heartier meal, top it off with grilled chicken—this pasta plays beautifully with added proteins. Now dig in and savor every spoonful of your homemade One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta!

How to Serve One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta

Garnishes

To elevate your One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta, sprinkle some extra freshly shredded parmesan cheese and a few torn basil leaves on top right before serving. A drizzle of good olive oil or a few chili flakes can add a nice finishing touch. These simple garnishes not only enhance the flavors but also make your dish look irresistible and restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

This pasta is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with a crunchy green salad or garlic bread makes the experience even more satisfying. A crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables bring complementary textures and fresh flavors that contrast beautifully with the creamy pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta in individual ramekins or shallow bowls for elegant single servings. You can also stuff the mixture into hollowed-out bell peppers or bake it with extra cheese on top for a bubbly casserole-style delight. Presentation is all about highlighting the pasta’s vibrant colors and creamy texture so get playful!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the freshness and prevent the pasta from drying out. Before storing, allow it to cool to room temperature to avoid condensation inside the container, which can alter the texture.

Freezing

You can freeze this pasta, although the texture of the spinach may change slightly upon thawing. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results. It’s a great option for quick meals during busy weeks.

Reheating

When reheating, use a skillet or pot over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken stock to loosen the sauce as it warms. Stir gently until heated through and creamy again. Avoid using high heat or the microwave at full power to keep the sauce from breaking and the spinach from becoming too mushy.

FAQs

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock, and the dish remains just as flavorful and satisfying.

Can I substitute penne for another pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like rigatoni, rotini, or shells will work wonderfully since they hold the sauce well.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomato oil?

No worries! You can use good quality olive oil instead, though the sun-dried tomato oil adds a unique depth of flavor you won’t want to miss when possible.

Is this recipe spicy?

The red chili flakes add a gentle kick, but you can easily adjust the amount to suit your taste or omit them for a milder dish.

Can I add protein directly into the pasta?

Definitely! Adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon at the end is an excellent way to boost the meal’s heartiness and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pot Spinach Tomato Pasta truly feels like a little treasure in your cookbook or dinner rotation. It’s wonderfully creamy, packed with fresh and bold flavors, and designed to make your cooking and cleanup effortless. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—it’s perfect for those busy nights when you want something wholesome, delicious, and satisfying without any fuss. Your taste buds will thank you!

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