Creamy One-Pot Penne Pasta with Spinach and Tomatoes

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy One-Pot Penne Pasta with Spinach and Tomatoes is a wonderful dish that combines simplicity and flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and satisfying. The creamy sauce, fresh spinach, and juicy tomatoes create a delicious meal that everyone will love. Plus, with just one pot, clean-up is a breeze!

How to Make Creamy One-Pot Penne Pasta with Spinach and Tomatoes

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil for garnish

Directions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Add the penne pasta, diced tomatoes (with juice), vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
4. Stir in fresh spinach and heavy cream, cooking until the spinach is wilted.
5. Remove from heat and mix in grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve garnished with fresh basil.

How to Serve Creamy One-Pot Penne Pasta with Spinach and Tomatoes

This pasta dish can be served hot straight from the pot. You can place it in bowls and sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil on top for added flavor. It pairs well with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Creamy One-Pot Penne Pasta with Spinach and Tomatoes

To store any leftovers, let the pasta cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or put it back in a pot with a splash of water over low heat until warmed through.

Tips to Make Creamy One-Pot Penne Pasta with Spinach and Tomatoes

• Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks to prevent sticking.
• You can add more vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• If you prefer a lighter dish, you can skip the heavy cream or use a milk alternative.

Variation

You can easily change this recipe by using different types of pasta, like fusilli or farfalle. For a protein boost, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can! Just add it during the last few minutes of cooking.

2. Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute heavy cream with a dairy-free cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give it some heat.