Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta

Name: Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 3 cups fresh spinach; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Fast Meal Recipes

I absolutely love making Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta during those cozy evenings when I crave something hearty yet easy to prepare. The vibrant combination of spinach and creamy sauce creates a comforting dish that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen. In just under 30 minutes, I can whip up a satisfying meal that not only delights my taste buds but also fills my home with a lovely aroma. It’s a recipe that never fails to impress family and friends alike!

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T12:03:31.266Z

I first stumbled upon Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta during a busy weeknight when I needed a quick and delicious meal. I was amazed at how well fresh spinach complemented the rich tomato sauce, creating a perfect synergy of flavor. I decided to add a hint of garlic and Parmesan for extra depth, which truly elevated the dish. Using just a handful of simple ingredients made the whole process feel effortless.

Over time, I've perfected this recipe by experimenting with different pasta types and adding a splash of cream for richness. The trick I’ve found is to sauté the spinach just enough to wilt it without losing its vibrant color. It’s a dish that not only satisfies but is also packed with nutrients!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy, dreamy sauce with a burst of tomato flavor
Fresh spinach adds both nutrition and color
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights

      

Pasta Choice Matters

The choice of pasta greatly influences the texture and overall enjoyment of the dish. Penne is ideal for this recipe as its tubular shape allows the creamy sauce to cling beautifully to each piece, ensuring every bite is a perfect balance of flavors. If penne isn't available, you can substitute it with fusilli or rigatoni, which also work well to capture the sauce. Cooking the pasta just until al dente is crucial; this will help it maintain a firm texture that complements the rich sauce.

Another consideration is the size of your pot. Using a large pot for boiling pasta ensures it cooks evenly and prevents it from becoming gummy. Be sure to use plenty of salted water—this enhances the pasta’s flavor from the inside out. Remember to save a cup of pasta water before draining; you can use this starchy liquid to adjust the sauce's consistency if needed.

Creating the Creamy Sauce

The combination of diced tomatoes and heavy cream creates a luscious, creamy sauce that forms the heart of this recipe. The acidity of the tomatoes balances the richness of the cream, creating a complex flavor profile. Simmering the sauce allows the flavors to meld together; keep it on medium heat and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. I like to let it simmer for at least five minutes, watching for it to thicken slightly and develop a glossy appearance. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer.

To enhance the flavor even further, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth. Just a small adjustment can elevate the dish significantly. Keep an eye on the sauce’s consistency; it should coat the back of a spoon but not be overly thick. If it becomes too thick, simply stir in some reserved pasta water to achieve the desired creaminess.

Spinach Savvy

Incorporating fresh spinach into this recipe not only contributes vibrant color but also packs a nutritional punch. Spinach wilts quickly—within 2 to 3 minutes—so be careful not to overcook it. If you prefer, you can substitute fresh spinach with baby kale or arugula, although the cooking time may vary depending on the greens chosen. Adding spinach just before combining with the pasta preserves its bright green color and nutrients, ensuring your dish remains appealing both visually and health-wise.

For meal prep, you can wash and chop the spinach ahead of time, keeping it stored in an airtight container in the fridge. This makes it easy to incorporate into the dish right before serving. Additionally, consider adding other veggies like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and variety—a simple sauté can give their natural sweetness a chance to shine in this creamy dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful dish:

Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
3 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Now that you have everything ready, let's get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Cream

Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Incorporate Spinach

Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted.

Serve and Garnish

Serve the pasta warm, garnished with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!

And just like that, you have a delicious Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce or incorporating grilled chicken for additional protein. You can also swap out the pasta for a gluten-free option if needed.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Before refrigerating, allow the pasta to cool to room temperature to prevent excess moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess. When you're ready to enjoy, reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of unsalted chicken or vegetable broth to loosen it up, stirring until heated through.

If you're looking to extend the life of your pasta dish, consider freezing it. Portion out servings into freezer-safe containers, allowing for a bit of space at the top to accommodate expansion. Frozen pasta can typically be kept for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.

Serving Suggestions

For a cozy dinner, serve the Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta with crusty garlic bread or a light salad to balance the richness of the dish. Adding fresh grated Parmesan on top right before serving enhances the savory flavor, while a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a lovely touch of heat. I also enjoy pairing it with a lightly chilled white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider transforming this pasta dish into a baked casserole. After mixing the pasta with the sauce, transfer it to a greased baking dish, top it with extra cheese, and bake it at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top. This variation not only adds an appealing texture but also makes for a delicious option for potlucks or family gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the sauce.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

→ What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne or rotini are great choices as they hold the sauce well, but feel free to use any pasta you prefer.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove before serving.