There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish that balances rich, velvety textures with fresh, vibrant flavors, and the Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta Recipe hits that sweet spot perfectly. Imagine tender pasta enveloped in a luscious sauce bursting with the tang of ripe tomatoes, the smoothness of cream, and the nutrient-packed goodness of fresh spinach, all brightened up with aromatic garlic and fragrant basil. This recipe is one of those kitchen treasures you’ll return to time and again because it’s effortlessly delicious, satisfying, and packed with wholesome ingredients that come together in pure harmony.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to create layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the dish irresistible, yet it all comes together quickly and easily in your own kitchen.
- 8 ounces pasta: Choose your favorite variety; penne or rotini work beautifully to hold the creamy sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: A rich and fruity base to sauté your garlic and deepen flavors.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Aromatic and essential for that inviting fragrance and savory kick.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes: Adds the perfect balance of acidity and sweetness to the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Brings silkiness and richness for that creamy finish you crave.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: Adds vibrant color and a boost of freshness while wilting into the sauce.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce and delivers a salty, nutty depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and brings everything into balance.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that complements the creamy sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little extra spark of spice.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil: Fresh herbal brightness that finishes the dish beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt seasons the pasta as it cooks, enhancing the overall flavor. Add your pasta and cook until it’s perfectly al dente, usually 8 to 10 minutes depending on the type. Once done, drain the pasta but save about half a cup of that starchy pasta water—it’s great for adjusting the sauce consistency later on.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for 1 to 2 minutes until it releases its wonderful aroma but hasn’t browned yet. This step is crucial because garlic that’s too dark can taste bitter, and you want that sweet, warm garlic flavor to shine through.
Step 3: Simmer the Tomatoes
Pour the canned diced tomatoes, juices included, right into the skillet with the garlic. Stir everything together, letting the mixture simmer for 3 to 5 minutes. This simmering melds the flavors and softens the tomatoes, creating a vibrant and slightly chunky base for your creamy sauce.
Step 4: Add the Cream
Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. This gradual incorporation prevents the cream from curdling and ensures a silky, rich sauce. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes luscious.
Step 5: Wilt the Spinach
Add the fresh spinach directly into the skillet and stir until it wilts beautifully into the sauce, about 2 to 3 minutes. The spinach softens and integrates perfectly, adding both vibrant color and a touch of earthiness that balances the creamy tomato base.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Seasoning
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and make the sauce even creamier and more flavorful. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed—this step is essential to get just the right balance that matches your personal preference.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until every piece is luxuriously coated in the creamy tomato and spinach sauce. If you find the sauce a bit thick, slowly add your reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach that perfect, silky consistency. Finish off with a sprinkle of fresh basil, giving everything one last gentle toss.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves on top will take this dish to the next level visually and flavor-wise. You can also add a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra color and a little zing.
Side Dishes
This pasta goes beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a warm, crusty garlic bread to mop up every bit of that luscious sauce. Roasted vegetables or a simple antipasto platter are also lovely companions for this meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the creamy tomato and spinach pasta recipe in individual bowls topped with a sprig of fresh basil and shaved Parmesan curls. Alternatively, bake it briefly in a casserole dish with extra cheese on top for a bubbly, golden crust that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your leftover creamy tomato and spinach pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for a fantastic next-day meal.
Freezing
While this pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers by placing portions in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 1 month. Note that cream-based sauces can sometimes change texture slightly upon thawing, so stirring well while reheating is key.
Reheating
Gently reheat the pasta on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Microwaving works, too, but be sure to stir halfway through to maintain even warmth and creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?
Absolutely! While Parmesan gives a nutty, salty depth, you can experiment with Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even a mild Mozzarella if you prefer a creamier melt. Just adjust the salt accordingly since cheeses vary in saltiness.
Is this pasta recipe vegetarian or vegan-friendly?
This recipe is vegetarian thanks to the use of dairy products like cream and cheese. To make it vegan, you can substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut or cashew cream and use nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan substitute for the cheese.
Can I add protein to this Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta Recipe?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy tofu make fantastic additions. Just cook your protein separately and fold it into the pasta towards the end for a hearty, complete meal.
How can I make the dish a bit lighter?
Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a blend of milk and Greek yogurt, but add the yogurt off heat to prevent curdling. You can also increase the amount of spinach or add other veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers to boost volume while keeping it light.
What type of pasta works best with this sauce?
Short, shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are ideal because they trap and hold the creamy tomato sauce deliciously. However, classic spaghetti or fettuccine would also be great if you prefer long pasta.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta Recipe is a true kitchen gem that balances rich comfort with fresh, wholesome ingredients. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough to impress guests. I can’t wait for you to try it out and make it your own little celebration of easy, tasty cooking that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Print
Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 20m
- Total Time: 0h 30m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This creamy tomato and spinach pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender pasta tossed in a rich tomato and cream sauce, enhanced with fresh spinach, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic basil. It’s a quick, satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces pasta
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat to prepare for cooking the pasta.
- Cook Pasta: Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain Pasta: Drain the cooked pasta and set it aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for adjusting the sauce consistency later.
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat to prepare for the sauce.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned, infusing the oil with flavor.
- Add Tomatoes: Pour the can of diced tomatoes, including the juices, into the skillet with the garlic, stirring to combine.
- Simmer Tomato Mixture: Let the tomato and garlic mixture simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Add Heavy Cream: Lower the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream, mixing continuously to form a creamy sauce.
- Thicken Sauce: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until it wilts and softens, adding freshness and color.
- Melt Parmesan: Incorporate the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce, allowing it to melt for a creamy texture.
- Season Sauce: Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes, adjusting to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated in the creamy tomato sauce.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
- Add Basil: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the pasta and gently toss to combine for a burst of herbal aroma.
- Serve: Serve the creamy tomato and spinach pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired for extra flavor.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.
- Red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted based on spice preference.
- Use fresh spinach for best texture and flavor; baby spinach works well.
- Parmesan cheese adds rich flavor and helps thicken the sauce; use freshly grated if possible.
- This dish pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
